Johannesburg – Composer, singer, and songwriter Asanda Lusaseni Mvana professionally known as “Msaki” has lauded the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) for its support.
Msaki recently won the coveted SAMRO “Songwriter of the Year” award at the Basadi in Music Awards (BIMA).
I love the strides SAMRO is making to be intentional with supporting female songwriters and composers,” said Msaki.
“I am in it for the long haul with SAMRO and want to see more of this happen.
“Getting the recognition signifies that there are so many people that I represent that have this talent in South Africa and I would love to see more people see songwriting as a viable career.
Congratulating Msaki for her achievement, SAMRO said she emerged victorious among immensely talented nominees.
SAMRO sponsored the “Songwriter of the Year” award for the second consecutive year since the inception of BIMA in 2022.
The sponsorship showcases SAMRO’s commitment to creating an environment that fosters creativity and encourages female songwriters to push the limits of musical expression.
BIMA celebrates and promotes women’s roles in the music industry, highlighting their unique abilities and contributions.
BIMA said it is committed to recognising and celebrating women’s achievements, which is crucial in breaking down barriers and creating a more equitable and inclusive industry.
Hloni Modise Matau, CEO of BIMA, said he believes that cultivating a strong relationship with organisations like SAMRO is paramount for the growth and success of female representation in the music industry.
“By SAMRO sponsoring BIMA, we can ensure that female artists receive proper recognition, support, and fair compensation for their creative contributions,” said Matau.
“Together, we strive to empower women in music, fostering an inclusive and diverse landscape where their voices can shine and inspire the world.”
SAMRO said these extraordinary women exemplify the courage, talent, and resilience that define the spirit of women in music.
“We are immensely proud to promote their exceptional ability to tell stories through songwriting,” the music rights body said.
“At SAMRO, we firmly believe in fostering an inclusive music community that values the contributions of all gifted individuals, regardless of gender.
“By doing so, we can create an environment that inspires limitless creativity and nurtures the growth of talented songwriters.”
Singer Kelly Khumalo also emerged victorious, receiving the prestigious “Afro Pop Artist of the Year” award at the Joburg Theatre on 12 August 2023.
2023 Basadi in Music Awards winners
- Afro Pop Artist of the Year: Kelly Khumalo – Akathintwa
- Sofnfree Amapiano Artist of the Year: Khanyisa Jaceni Ft Sir Trill, Marcus Mc, Tycoon & Ben Da Prince Gyjima
- Artist of the Year: Lwah Ndlunkulu
- Dance Artist of the Year: Nuzu Deep – Come Find Me
- DJ of the Year: Lady Amar
- Duo/Collaboration of the Year: Qwabe Twins – Sobonana
- Nando’s Emerging Artist of the Year: Noluthando Ngema
- Entertainment Journalist of the Year: Masego Seemela – Sowetan Smag
- Entertainment Radio Presenter of the Year: Khutso Theledi – The Break Away – Metro M
- Entertainment Radio Producer of the Year: Phila Tyekana – The Touchdown – Metro FM
- Entertainment TV Producer of the Year: Philisa Bidi – Massive Music – Channel O
- Gospel Artist of the Year: Ntokozo Mbambo – Ngcwele Nkosi
- Hip Hop: Nadia Nakai Ft Lucasraps – Not The Same
- Jazz Artist of the Year: Thesis Za – Chosi
- Music Tv Presenter: Ntombee Mzolo – Yash’ Ingoma
- Music Video of the Year: Ney The Bae Ft Given Zulu – Ingwe
- Newcomer of the Year: Group Chat – Mama
- Pop Artist of the Year: Holly Rey – Stripped
- Reggae Artist of the Year: Empress Lilly – One Day
- Social Media Influencer of the Year: Tshidi Kekana Manganye
- Song of the Year: Lwah Ndlunkulu Ft Siya Ntuli – Ithuba
- Samro Songwriter of the Year: Msaki
- Stylist of the Year: Odirile The Savage Stylist
Traditional Artist of the Year: Dr. Sophy – Vamaseve Wa MinaNon-Voting Categories Award Recipients
- CEO Mosadi in Business Achievement Award recipientsNhlanhla Mafu For NN Vintage
- Thando Thabethe For Thabooty’s Underwear and Shapewear
- Boity For BT Signature
- Mosadi in Music In Africa Award recipientsBerita (Zimbabwe)
- Maleh (Lesotho)
- Mpho Sebina (Botswana)
- Sefa (Ghana)
- Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
- Lifetime Achievement Award recipientsLetta Mbulu
- PJ Powers
- Angelique Kidjo
Most Streamed Song between April 2022 – March 2023:
- Q Twins – Sobonana
Highest Playlisted Song between April 2022 – March 2023:
- Nomfundo Moh – Soft Life


