Basadi In Music Awards: Introducing Your Reggae Artists Of The Year Nominees
20 July 2024
As the Basadi In Music Awards 2024 approach, the reggae music category promises fierce competition and exceptional talent. Here are the nominees who have captured the hearts and ears of reggae music lovers this year:
1. Dimakatso Carol
Known as Dimahr is a singer and songwriter born and raised in Soweto. She showed interest in singing at a young age, her 6 siblings would always trick her into singing at family gatherings because they saw the talent in her. It was not until after schooling and working in the corporate environment that she earnestly started concentrating on music.
After Her single ‘Can’t Trust’ taken from "Apocalyptic Riddim which was received very well by ardent listeners of Reggae Dancehall, she felt motivated to do more. Soon after, she followed up with the singles ‘Uptown Girls’ and ‘Spirituality’ cooked in their Concrete Jungle Studios. That was followed by ‘Look Over U’, and 'Hard to Find’ from a project Called Falling in love Riddim produced by Chicha Music
She released her debut album The Truth in Nov 2022. Dimahr, has recently released a compelling album titled Proof of Life from Concrete Jungle Studios. Her music, characterized by soulful lyrics and vibrant rhythms, has resonated deeply with her fans, solidifying her place as a frontrunner in this year's awards.
To Vote for Her SMS "REGGAE DIMAHR' TO 49960
2. Undefynd Musiq
The Basadi In Music Awards Reggae Artist nominee , Undefynd Musiq #Undefynd was picked by Luciano Messenjah to be one of his backing vocalists for the Reggae event that was held at the Glamis Arena, Zimbabwe 2015. The Jamaican icon had heard Undefynd's vocal potential and capabilities on a previous event and tracks.
She was still young and finding herself then, it was a very challenging experience for the artist however, it also broke room for massive growth and she has become one of the most formidable uprising musicians not just in African Reggae but also in its derivatives which is dancehall & Dancehall Reggae/hiphop fusions as was demonstrated on her Musinion album released in November 2023.
Undefynd brings a fresh perspective to reggae with her Musinion Album, produced by Exalate Livan. Her innovative sound and lyrical prowess have garnered widespread acclaim, making her a formidable contender for the title of Reggae Artist of the Year.
To Vote for Her SMS "REGGAE UNDEFYND' TO 49960
3. Reign Africa ZA
The award winning Artist Valencia Tsoseletso Motsepe AKA Reign Afrika has made waves with a captivating new single that showcases her distinctive vocal style and poignant lyrics. Her contribution to the reggae genre this year has not gone unnoticed, earning her a well-deserved nomination.
Reign Afrika,' has emerged as a dynamic force in the South African creative landscape. Born in Vereeniging and raised in Johannesburg, Reign Afrika is a singer, songwriter and model whose journey is as inspiring as it is diverse.
Reign Afrika's musical roots run deep, thanks to the significant influence of her parents, Ignatius and Rosaline Motsepe. Both parents were deeply involved in her musical upbringing, ensuring she became a versatile vocalist by encouraging her participation in church choirs and praise and worship teams.
"My parents were my first teachers and biggest supporters," she recalls. "They shaped my voice and my confidence."
Her mother, Rosaline, was particularly influential. A gospel singer, Rosaline was a member of the gospel group 'Moya Movement,' performing alongside the Moya brothers, Afrotraction and Scelo Moya. "I grew up watching them during rehearsals and music sessions," Reign Afrika fondly remembers. This early exposure to professional music-making left an indelible mark on her, igniting a passion that would steer her future career.
The Beginning of a Musical Journey
In 2010, Reign Afrika took her first official step into the music industry under the guidance of Wandile Black Token Mkwanazi, the founder of Street Hustle Entertainment. "Wandile played a crucial role in my early career," she says. "He provided the platform and mentorship I needed to transition from a choir singer to a solo artist."
Under Wandile's mentorship, Reign Afrika honed her skills and began to develop her unique sound. Her music is a blend of soulful melodies and powerful lyrics, reflecting her experiences and heritage. Her versatile talent has allowed her to experiment with different genres, creating a distinctive style that resonates with a wide audience.
Reign Afrika's journey is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the influence of a supportive family. She continues to push boundaries and explore new creative avenues, always staying true to her roots. "I am grateful for where I come from and excited about where I'm headed," she says.
As she continues to rise, Reign Afrika remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring artists and a proud representative of South African talent on the global stage. Her story is one of resilience, versatility, and unwavering commitment to her craft, making her a true icon in the making.
To Vote For Her SMS REGGAE REIGN AFRIKA to 49960
4. Sankie Fayauman Pillay
Emerging onto the reggae scene, Sankie Fayauman has made a significant impact with the release of her first EP Titled Ubuhlungu. Her debut has been met with enthusiasm from fans and critics alike, marking her as a rising star in the industry.
Sankie Patricia Pillay aka Sankie FyahUman (10 March 1989) was born in Florence Hospital in Johannesburg, Gauteng. She grew up in Mailula: A township in Vosloorus East of Johannesburg. Sankie started singing in church at the age of 9, and at the age of 16, she joined the Amasikho live band. The following year, 2008, she applied her talents as a Vocalist for Kings of Melody. 2010 saw Sankie going back to school to obtain her Matric Certificate. Fortunately for her, the music bug never left her side and she chose to go back to the music industry and achieve her dream of becoming a household name.
In 2014, she returned to the music scene after 4 years of standing on the sidelines. In those years, Sankie had worked at a McDonald's restaurant and given birth to her beautiful daughter. She is inspired by Lauren Hill. She used to partake in Monate Fela Mic sessions and events held in the East Rand. Sankie FyahUman has done a collaboration with Lavoro Duro and LNT Sound in the Reconciliation Riddim with a song titled 'Wamuhle'. She is also featured in a Riddim called Africa Celebrates Phumi Maduna which features twenty-eight female voices across the African Continent. The Riddim celebrates Phumi Maduna’s milestones in the reggae scene. Sankie Patricia Pillay is kind-hearted, ever-smiling, and loves peace and unity. She is a go-getter and believes anything is possible with Jah's compassion; even when life throws you stones you take them and build a mansion. She is conscious that being in the music industry is not easy hence her motto is "One must stay strong to overcome whatever might be thrown their way".
Her music is Reggae fused with her African flair.
To Vote For Her SMS "Reggae Sankie Fayauman" to 49960.
5. Zama Sunshine
Zama Sunshine has treated her audience to a new single titled *[Title]*, which highlights her versatility and skill as a reggae artist. Her music continues to inspire and uplift, cementing her nomination for this prestigious award.
Zamangwane "Sunshine" Khanyile , born on April 6, 1986, is a talented singer-songwriter from a musical family. Empress Zama Sunshine has been singing since birth and has honed her craft over the years. As a proud mother of three, she is dedicated to creating music that uplifts and inspires others.
Her musical journey began with the release of her debut EP, "My Precious Gift," in 2019, a heartfelt project dedicated to children. Working with Rawyal Records, Zama Sunshine has crafted a unique sound that blends reggae, dancehall, and African rhythms. She has also had the opportunity to collaborate with other talented artists and producers, including Maximum Stylez, Concrete Jungle, and Blackness Blue Production, further expanding her musical horizons.
In addition to her music, Zama Sunshine hosts two online radio shows: "Reggae Dancehall Party Show" on Black Culture Radio and "Reggae Round Table" on Real Vibes Radio, alongside her co-host Sanzalixious Selekta SA.
With a passion for educating and inspiring through music, Zama Sunshine aims to spread love, positivity, and unity to a global audience. Through her music and performances, she strives to connect with her audience, creating an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting impact.
Zama Sunshine has treated her audience to a new single titled "Give Me You" , which highlights her versatility and skill as a reggae artist. Her music continues to inspire and uplift, cementing her nomination for this prestigious award.
To Vote For Her SMS "Reggae Zama Sunshine" to 49960.
The voting lines are now open, allowing fans to support their favorite artists as they vie for the coveted title of Reggae Artist of the Year. The main event, where the winners will be revealed, is scheduled for the 10th of August, promising an exciting celebration of talent and achievement in the reggae music community.
Stay tuned as these talented artists prepare to showcase their best work and vie for the ultimate recognition at the Basadi In Music Awards. Let your voice be heard by voting for the artist who has touched your soul and enriched your musical journey this year.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE VOTING OUTSIDE SOUTH AFRICA: Anyone in the world can vote by purchasing voting bundles from www.bima2024.com at a minimum of R20 (ZAR) which give you ten (10) valid votes per nominee. This is equivalent to 10 SMSes at R2 each.
