The 2024 Metro FM Music Awards dazzled Mbombela Stadium with electrifying performances and unexpected wins. Freedom Day showcased South Africa’s vibrant music scene, proving the industry is bolder and more dynamic than ever.
The Big Winners
While the most notable nominees were Tyla and Tyler ICU, Kabza De Small and Mthunzi stole the show with four awards. Here are the biggest winners of 2024’s edition of this musical celebration:
Song of the Year: A hotly contested category, but the infectious Amapiano anthem “Imithandazo” by Kabza De Small & Mthunzi ft. DJ Maphorisa, Young Stunna, Sizwe Alkaline, and Umthakathi Kush took home the coveted award. Its undeniable beat and relatable lyrics captured the hearts of the nation.
Artist of the Year: Rising star Lwah Ndlunkulu stunned audiences with their unique blend of genre and raw talent. Their debut album was a critical and commercial success, cementing their status as one to watch.
Best Collaboration: The unlikely pairing of Kabza De Small and Mthunzi proved a stroke of genius. Their track “Imithandazo” ft. DJ Maphorisa, Young Stunna, Sizwe Alakine, and Umthakathi Kush fused their signature styles effortlessly, creating a sonic masterpiece that dominated the airwaves.
Lifetime Achievement Award: The iconic DJ Oskido and Boom Shaka received a standing ovation as they took the stage to accept this well-deserved honour. Their decades-long career has shaped the South African sound, inspiring generations of musicians and stealing the hearts of South Africans.
- Best Amapiano: ‘Imithandazo’ – Kabza De small & Mthunzi ft. DJ Maphorisa, Young Stunna, Sizwe Alakine and Umthakathi Kush
- Best Produced Album: Isimo – Kabza De Small & Mthunzi
Other Winners That Deserve Their Flowers:
- Best Viral Challenge: TitoM & Yuppe – ‘Tshwala’ Bam ft. S.N.E & EeQue
- Best New Artist: Nontokozo Mkhize
- Best Dance: Zakes Bantwini – ‘Mama Thula’ ft. Skye Wanda, Thakzin & Suffocate SA
- Best Kwaito/Gqom: ‘Hello’ – DJ Kotin ft. Big Nuz, Mshayi & Mr Thela
- Best Music Video: ‘Izenzo’ – Bassie & Aymos ft. T-Man SA
- Best Male: Aymos
- Best Female: Makhadzi
Zakes Bantwini took to his Instagram with a heartfelt expression of his gratitude to the 2024 Metro FM Music Awards creators and sponsors, his collaborators, and his loyal supporters. He typed:
“I am deeply honored and humbled to have received BEST DANCE at the Metro Awards last night. This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and support of so many people who have been by my side throughout my journey.”
Each category winner walked away with R50,000, but the Song of the Year winners Kabza De Small and Mthunzi received R150,000 each.
Best Dressed
Beyond the awards, the 2024 Metro FM Music Awards had a “Black to the Future” theme. According to News24, Insurer Santam, and fashion organisation Africa Fashion International (founded by Dr. Precious Motsepe) sponsored the Best New Artist and Best Styled Artist categories.
Attendees did the absolute most with their interpretations of the theme, serving the hottest looks of the year in Mzansi. Here is a quick look at some of 2024’s most memorable fashion statements.
Hosts Tebogo “Proverb” Thekisho and Luthando “Lootlove” Shosha did an amazing job and even more so with their outfits. Lootlove did not disappoint with her six wardrobe changes: making a statement with each one.
MetroFM’s own Khutso Theledi represented the station in a black corset dress decorated with pearls.
DJ Lamiez Holworthy-Morule showed out in a dazzling black number by Siphosihle Masango.
Content creator Siyanda Bani dominated the red carpet with an AI-inspired ensemble.
2024 Metro FM Music Awards Performances
Cassper Nyovest set the stage on fire, performing his fan favourites with features from Khuli Chana and international superstar Gaopele.
The Boom Shaka and Oskido tributes demonstrated why these artists are South African legends.
Related: Get Ready… The Metro FM Music Awards Will Rock the Mbombela Stadium this Weekend!
The Verdict
The 2024 Metro FM Music Awards cemented its role as a celebration of South African musical excellence. It showcased established powerhouses, rising stars, and the dynamic evolution of genres that keep the nation dancing. While some categories sparked debate, the night ultimately highlighted the diversity and undeniable brilliance that make the industry so special.