Singer and songwriter Monique Bingham will receive the 2026 International Recognition Award at the fifth anniversary edition of the Basadi in Music Awards, the organization announced. The honor recognizes her nearly three-decade career in house music and her enduring connection with audiences in South Africa.
Award Details
The International Recognition Award is presented to women whose work has left a lasting imprint on global music culture through innovation and artistic excellence. For Bingham, the award reflects a deep relationship with South African listeners who have embraced her music as part of the country’s soulful house identity.
Career and Collaborations
Bingham has released soulful house music for almost 30 years, collaborating with South African producers such as Black Coffee, Mobi Dixon and DJ Christos. Her vocals have become a staple of the country’s house music scene, often featured in clubs and at festivals. She has maintained a consistent presence as an independent artist, relying on fan support and industry relationships rather than major-label backing.
Artist’s Response
Bingham described receiving the award as a meaningful moment, particularly as an independent artist. She noted that her career has been built on collaboration, fan support and long-term industry relationships, rather than major-label backing. She also highlighted music’s role as a unifying force and acknowledged South Africa’s deep-rooted house music culture, adding that she looks forward to performing at the ceremony.
Ceremony Details
The 2026 Basadi in Music Awards, themed REWIND, will take place at Joburg Theatre over two days. The Vanguard Awards are scheduled for 7 August, followed by the main ceremony on 8 August, where Bingham will receive her award and deliver a live performance.
