The inaugural Music Business Awards Africa (MBAA) will officially reveal its first nominees on Wednesday, 23 September, with a live showcase featuring Murumba Pitch, Mthunzi, iFani and De Rose.
The event will take place at Mercedes-Benz Motus in Bedfordview, Johannesburg, bringing together artists, managers, record labels, publishers, media, brands and other professionals from across the music industry.
Held under the theme “Honouring the Music Industry Invisibles”, the MBAA aims to recognise the people and businesses working behind the scenes to build and sustain music careers across Africa.
Categories include Best A&R Manager, Best Artist Manager, Best Commercial Songwriter, Best Artist Digital Presence, Best Independent Record Label, Best Music PR & Marketing Agency, Best Music Law Firm and Best Live Events Production Company.
The evening will also feature a Music Business Network A&R & Showcase, giving emerging artists an opportunity to present their work to industry decision-makers.
MBAA founder Gift Mdlalose said the awards were created to give greater visibility to professionals whose contributions are often overlooked.
The organisation says its judging process is evidence-based, with entrants required to provide information such as streaming figures, sales, royalty statements, campaign results and evidence of industry impact. An independent Expert Council, supported by an Advisory Board, oversees the process.
The nominees announced on 23 September will progress to the inaugural Music Business Awards Africa ceremony on 21 November 2026, when winners will be announced.
The nominees announcement starts at 18:00 for 19:00 and is strictly by invitation.
Main Image: Supplied
