The nominees for the 2026 Basadi Music Awards were announced online on 18 June, recognising female artists, media personalities and industry professionals from across Africa.
Artist of the Year
Contenders for the top prize include:
- Ayra Starr
- Tyla
- MaWhoo
- Nkosazana Daughter
- Zee Nxumalo
- Kharishma
- Mmatema
- Shandesh
Genre-Specific Artist Awards
Amapiano Artist of the Year nominees:
- DBN Gogo
- Kamo Mphela
- MaWhoo
- Nkosazana Daughter
- Zee Nxumalo
- Nobuhle
- Thatohatsi
- Kharishma
Afro Pop Artist of the Year contenders:
- Kelly Khumalo for Nyamezela
- Aya Msani for Sondela
- Maleh (Lesotho) for Khotso Le Lesedi
- Nonny Muji
- Pretty Masompisi
- Phumla Music
Dance Music Artist of the Year features:
- Babes Wodumo
- DJ Zinhle and Liema Pantsi
- Kharishma
- Shandesh
- Uncle Waffles
Gospel Artist of the Year nominees:
- Ada Ehi (Nigeria) for Maberumo (This Is Morning)
- Futhi Mhlongo
- HLE
- Mmatema
- Musa Yende
Collaboration and Styling Awards
Best Female Feature of the Year highlights standout guest appearances by women. Nominees include:
- Nontokozo Mkhize and Mthunzi on Kabza De Small’s Siyabonga
- Zawadi Yamungu for Lawuleka
- Tracy, Thatohatsi, Nia Pearl and Boohle for their performances on nominated tracks
Best Styled Artist of the Year nominees:
- DJ Lamiez
- DJ Zinhle
- Nia Pearl
- Uncle Waffles
- Zawadi Yamungu
- Zee Nxumalo
Collaboration of the Year shortlist:
- Cici and Naledi Aphiwe for Amen
- DJ Zinhle and Thabsie SA for Kusazokhanya
- MaWhoo and Zee Nxumalo for Sesamukela
DJ of the Year
Nominees for DJ of the Year are:
- DBN Gogo
- DJ Lesa
- Kasi Duchaz
- Kele Megano
- LKG
- Uncle Waffles
Beyond the music categories, the awards also recognise professionals working across the entertainment industry.
