On May 3, Mbombela Stadium in Mpumalanga erupted in a dazzling celebration of South African music at the Metro FM Music Awards (MMAs) 2025.
Themed “Crowning Greatness,” the 19th annual ceremony, hosted by Metro FM with the Mpumalanga Provincial Government and Motsepe Foundation, was a vibrant showcase of talent and glamour. Broadcast live on SABC1 and streamed on SABC+, the event captivated audiences with stellar performances and heartfelt tributes, cementing its status as Mzansi’s premier music event.
The dynamic duo of Siyabonga “Scoop Makhathini” Ngwekazi and Luthando “LootLove” Shosha lit up the stage, their sizzling chemistry and six show-stopping outfits stealing the spotlight. Their infectious energy drove the night, delivering iconic moments that had fans buzzing. The black carpet, hosted by Anele Zondo and Mpumi Mlambo, shimmered with star power, while Dineo Ranaka and L-Tido captured raw winner reactions backstage.
The evening kicked off with vocal powerhouse Bassie, whose high-energy performance and choreography set the tone. Black Motion, Usimamane, Langa Mavuso, and K.O. followed, delivering renditions of South Africa’s most iconic hits, from amapiano to hip-hop. Bassie dominated, sweeping three categories—Best Music Video, Best Amapiano Song, and Best Collaboration Song—for her hit “Kwelanga 2.0.” Limpopo’s Makhadzi was crowned Artist of the Year, a testament to her unstoppable rise. Kwaito legends TKZee and gospel icon Dr. Rebecca Malope received Lifetime Achievement Awards, honoured for their enduring contributions to Mzansi’s soundscape.
The 2025 MMAs saw fierce competition with 2,769 entries across 19 categories. Standout winners included Xolly Mncwango (Best Female Artist and Best Gospel Album), Usimamane (Best Male Artist), and Emtee’s DIY 3 (Best Produced Album). Naledi Aphiwe and Mawelele’s “Romeo & Juliet” won Best African Pop Song, while SKHANDAWORLD, K.O., and Nasty C’s “Too Much” took Best Hip Hop Song. Public votes via *120*45787# at R1.50 per minute shaped the outcomes, with fans celebrating wins like Neo Dube’s Best New Artist on X.
The Motsepe Foundation elevated the stakes, awarding R50,000 per category winner and R150,000 for Song of the Year. The event also boosted Mpumalanga’s economy, filling hotels and promoting tourism, though MEC Leah Mabuza hinted this might be the province’s final year hosting. Marking 30 years of South African democracy, Metro FM’s Kina Nhlengethwa called the night a “tribute to our musical heritage.”
