The Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) has officially announced the nominees for the 31st Annual South African Music Awards (SAMA31), and in one of the most competitive categories of the year — Best Amapiano Album — one name stands out above the rest: Kelvin Momo.
Widely hailed as the “soulful king of Amapiano,” Momo has cemented his dominance in the genre with not one, but two nominations in the same category. His albums Sewe and Ntsako both earned recognition, a rare feat that underscores his consistency, artistry, and unrivalled influence in shaping the sound of modern amapiano.
He will go head-to-head with other heavyweights and rising stars who also secured nominations:
- Vigro Deep – Your Piano Is Not My Piano
- Mellow & Sleazy – Midnight in Sunnyside 3
- Zee Nxumalo – Inja Ye Game
While Vigro Deep continues to push the genre into darker, experimental territories, and Mellow & Sleazy deliver the street-ready anthems that keep dance floors alive, Kelvin Momo’s double nod signals his ability to craft projects that resonate deeply with fans and critics alike. Meanwhile, Zee Nxumalo’s inclusion with Inja Ye Game highlights the new wave of talent keeping the amapiano movement fresh and evolving.
According to Unati Gwija, SAMA Spokesperson, this year’s nominations reflect “the wisdom of age meeting the exuberance of youth, as emerging voices and established icons go head-to-head across categories.” The amapiano category is a perfect illustration of this ethos, where pioneers and newcomers alike are celebrated on the same stage.
The SAMA31 ceremony will take place in November 2025 in a bold new hybrid format, combining the glamour of a live, in-person event with the reach of a global digital broadcast. This reimagined setup will allow fans across the world to witness the celebration in real-time, all under the theme Less Noise. More Music.
As the countdown to South Africa’s biggest night in music begins, all eyes will be on the Best Amapiano Album race. With two nominations, Kelvin Momo has already proven his dominance — but will it translate into a historic win? Or will Vigro Deep, Mellow & Sleazy, or rising star Zee Nxumalo claim the crown?
One thing is certain: Amapiano will once again be the heartbeat of SAMA31, proving why it’s not just a genre, but a cultural force that continues to define South Africa’s music identity and global influence.
