POPULAR social media platform TikTok is taking over this year’s South African Music Awards (Samas).
This after the awards introduced a new category for all the songs that went viral on the platform in the past year.
The new category, TikTok Viral Song of the Year, was announced at an event in Kramerville, north of Joburg, on Thursday, 11 August, together with the nominees.
And the nominated songs are Adiwele by Young Stunna featuring Kabza De Small, uMlando by 9umba, Toss and Mdoovar, Trigger by DJ Karri, Abo Mvelo by Daliwonga, Sisonke by Thozi, Nkao Tempela by Ch’cco, Mellow and Sleazy, Bakwa Lah by Major League DJz, Nvcho and Mathandos, Phakade Lami by Nomfundo Moh, Banyana by DJ Maphorisa and Tyler ICU, as well as Big Flexa by Costa Titch.
TikTok’s Yuvir Pillay said they were honoured to join forces with the Samas.
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“Music is a special part of TikTok’s creative DNA, and we have seen that songs going viral on the platform generally do well on streaming services as well.
“This plays an important role in the recognition of songs and artists, and influences other areas such as nominations, chart rankings and sales,” he said.
Recording Industry of South Africa CEO Nhlanhla Sibisi said: “Over the past few years, platforms such as TikTok have transformed, influenced and advanced the music business. As we continue to witness this evolution, we wish to celebrate talents and songs that have gained popularity in this manner and encourage public members to vote for their favourites.”
The Samas will be held on 28 August at Sun City Resort in Rustenburg, North West.
