THE self-proclaimed King of amapiano, Kabza De Small, was crowned the best musician of 2023.
The DJ and producer won a big prize at the South African Music Awards (Samas) on Saturday, 18 November.
He won Best Duo/Group of the Year together with DJ Maphorisa for Scorpion Kings Live Sun Arena, Best Produced Album for KOA II Part 1 produced by Kabza De Small, Da Muziqal Chef, Mdu aka TRP, Stakev, DJ Maphorisa and Felo le Tee, Best Amapiano Album for KOA II Part 1 and his collaboration with Kwesta on Speak N Vrostaan earned him Best Kwaito Album.
Another big winner of the night was gospel star Ntokozo Mbambo, who took home three awards: Female Artist of the Year, Album of the Year and Best Contemporary Faith Album for Lavish Worship.
The late rapper AKA won three awards: Male Artist of the Year, Best Engineered Album and Best Collaboration.
K.O’s Sete featuring Young Stunna and Blxckie won the SAMRO Highest Airplay Composer Award and the CAPASSO Most Streamed Song Award.
Stimela by 2Point1 won the award for Record of The Year and Music Video of The Year.
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Wouter Kellerman, Zakes Bantwini and Nomcebo Zikode were honoured with the International Achievement Award for their remarkable song Bayethe, a song that transcends borders and makes the three giants Grammy winners.
Ihhashi Elimhlophe, Pops Mohamed, Gloria Bosman and Mandoza were honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Accepting the award, Ihhashi Elimhlophe said it was a good feeling to be recognised.
Gloria Bosman’s daughter, Siphesihle Bosman, thanked the Samas for honouring her mum.
"I am honoured to receive the award on behalf of my mum. It has been the longest seven months of my life. It was tough. My mother has dedicated her whole life to music and I’m grateful to the Samas for honouring her," she said.
