The Basadi in Music Awards 2025 (BIMA) concluded with an unforgettable second night at the Joburg Theatre, celebrating South Africa’s most outstanding female musicians and performers. The evening was a vibrant tribute to artistry, resilience, and the continued growth of women in music. From moving tributes to electrifying performances, the ceremony reflected the depth of talent in the industry. Naledi Aphiwe, Liema Pantsi, and Nontokozo Mkhize emerged as the biggest winners of the night, each taking home two awards. Aphiwe secured Afropop Artist of the Year and CAPASSO Most Streamed Song of the Year, while Pantsi was recognized for Collaboration of the Year with Cici and SAMRO Songwriter of the Year. Mkhize triumphed with Gospel Artist of the Year and the coveted Song of the Year.
The evening opened with a powerful performance by Nokwazi, followed by an evocative poem by Dr. Gcina Mhlophe, whose words captured the spirit of South African women. Performances from Nomakhosini and Azana brought soulful elegance to the stage, while Mapula Monyepao’s touching In Memoriam segment was met with reverent silence. A heartfelt Lifetime Achiever Tribute by Ntokozo Mbambo to Dr. Rebecca Malope honored a living legend whose legacy continues to inspire.
The ceremony closed on a high note with Kharishma, the Music Video of the year award winner, Zee Nxumalo, who scooped on of the big awards, the Sofnfree Artist of the Year and Lamiez Holworthy, as the DJ of the Year winner, celebrating collaboration and the vibrant future of South African music.
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KFC backs potential of 200 young people with R5m in education fees“Words can’t express how I feel about last night’s celebration at the Joburg Theatre! Congratulations to all our winners, nominees, and partners for making the Basadi in Music Awards a night to remember. I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible talent, passion, and dedication that shone through on stage. Here’s to empowering more women in music!”– Hloni Modise-Matau, Founder and CEO of Basadi in Music Awards
The awards also marked a powerful start to Women’s Month, broadcast live on SABC2. “We’re electrified to launch Women’s Month with the Basadi in Music Awards on SABC2! This spectacular celebration of female talent and empowerment in music is the perfect way to honor the strength and resilience of South African women.” – Yonwaba Pangeni, Channel Head, SABC2
Hosting the ceremony was a proud moment for Joburg Theatre, reinforcing its position as a hub for creativity and excellence. “The Joburg Theatre is honoured to have hosted the Basadi in Music Awards, an extraordinary celebration of women’s contributions to music. Providing a platform for these incredible artists to shine is what makes our theatre a true home for talent.” – Xoliswa Nduneni, CEO, Joburg Theatre
“Sofnfree is thrilled to have been part of such an electrifying night! Huge congratulations to Zee Nxumalo, our Sofnfree Artist of the Year. “her passion and artistry truly embody the spirit of excellence” – Lerato Selepe Tikwayo, Marketing Manager, Sofnfree
“CAPASSO is proud to support initiatives that uplift and recognize female artists in the music industry. Congratulations to Naledi Aphiwe on winning CAPASSO Most Streamed Song of the Year!” – Lerato Matsoso, CAPASSO General Manager Operations
“Brand South Africa is honored to have been part of the Basadi in Music Awards, a powerful initiative that shines a spotlight on the incredible talent and contributions of women in our music industry. By celebrating these trailblazers, we’re not only showcasing the best of South Africa but also inspiring a brighter future for all.”- Sithembile Ntombela Brand South Africa Managing Director: Marketing
“We are thrilled to congratulate Liyema Pantsi on winning the SAMRO Songwriter of the Year award. Her exceptional talent and heartfelt lyrics have set a new standard in songwriting, and this award is a testament to the impact her songwriting and music continue to make across the industry.” – Kgomotso Mosenogi, General Manager: Marketing and Communication at SAMRO
This year’s winners reflect the dynamic and diverse landscape of South African music, showcasing genres from Afropop and Gospel to Amapiano and Hip-Hop. The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to the legendary Dr. Rebecca Malope, honoring her enduring impact on the industry. The Basadi in Music Awards 2025 not only celebrated the country’s exceptional female talent but also highlighted the importance of platforms that recognize, empower, and elevate women in music. With unforgettable performances, inspiring stories, and groundbreaking winners, BIMA 2025 affirmed that the future of South African music is vibrant, collaborative, and unapologetically female.
Music Awards Winners – 02 August 2025
Category
Artist
Afropop Artist of the year
Naledi Aphiwe
Amapiano Artist of the year
Babalwa M
Sofnfree Artist of the year
Zee Nxumalo
Newcomer of the year
Noni Muji
Collaboration of the year
Cici and Liema Pantsi
Pop Artist of the year
Jamie-Lee Sexton
Best Styled Artist of the year
Moozlie
Dance Artist of the year
Shandesh
DJ of the year
Lamiez Holworthy
Gospel Artist of the year
Nontokozo Mkhize
Hip Hop Artist of the year
Gigi Lamayne
Music Video of the year
Chokeslem – Kharishma
Jazz Artist of the year
Salphina Kadiaka
Reggae Artist of the year
MadaGlory
Traditional Artist of the year
MmaAusi
Songwriter of the year
Liema Pantsi
Song of the year
Nontokozo Mkhize
Special Categories (Non voted for):
Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr Rebecca Malope
CAPASSO Most streamed song
Ngiyabonga – Naledi Aphiwe
Highest Airplay
Kwelanga 2.0 – Bassie
Social Media Handles
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Website: http://basadiinmusicawards.co.za/
Hashtag: #Basadiinmusicawards2025
