The sky is the limit for gospel rising star Buci Radebe, who walked away with two accolades at the South African Music Awards (Samas) on Saturday.
Radebe bagged the White Star Newcomer of the Year and Best Traditional Faith Album during the 27th edition of the Samas, which was staged virtually.
Radebe, who stepped out of the shadow of backing many gospel artists last year and launched her own career, was competing against Xolly Mncwango, Banda Banda & The Crocodiles and Azana in the best newcomer category. The 34-year-old said it was an honour to win two awards in her first year as a solo artist.
“I am very happy and excited. I don’t have words to express what I am feeling right now. But I am over the moon. I have never thought I stood a chance to win against some of the greatest talents that I was nominated with. I was happy and satisfied with just a nomination. Winning two Sama awards with just my debut album is just out of this world,” she said.
Her debut, titled Spiritual Encounter, was released in February last year. It opened international doors for the singer and won awards in the process. Radebe scored a US tour, which had to be cancelled due to the outbreak of Covid-19 last year. The album won the best newcomer award at the Crown Gospel Music Awards in November and is also nominated for the Ingoma Awards set for August 28.
“When I released the album I just wanted to launch my career but what I got was more than what I had bargained for. When I released the album I did not have awards in my mind. Looking at the three awards plus a nomination, I don’t know where to start to thank God. I am grateful that the country has embraced me and my music. I am truly honoured,” said Radebe.
Amapiano singer Kabza De Small reigned supreme with four awards. Kabza De Small’s collaboration with DJ Maphorisa as Scorpion Kings earned them Album of the Year, Duo or Group of the Year and Best Amapiano Album for Once Upon A Time In Lockdown.
His solo effort I Am the King of Amapiano: Sweet & Dust brought him the Male Artist of the Year gong. Blaq Diamond made history as the first outfit to ever be crowned Artist of the Year at the SA Music Awards. Internationally acclaimed Master KG took home the Samro Composer Highest Airplay award that he shares with Nomcebo Zikode. He also won the International Achiever Award for his monster hit Jerusalema, featuring Nomcebo.
Sho Madjozi proved her versatility when she scooped the Best Traditional Album and Sofnfree Female Artist of the Year. Nasty C snatched the Best Hip-Hop Album award and Zinaro won the Best Gqom Album. Remix of the Year was won by Da Capo, Best Reggae Album went to Bongo Riot, Best Selling Artist went to Mlindo the Vocalist, Most Streamed Song was taken by Elaine and the Lifetime Achievement Award was awarded to Lebo M, Lindelani Mkhize and PJ Powers.
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