The late muso will be honoured at the 5th South African Afro Music Awards on 26 October, Birchwood Hotel, east of Johannesburg.
Awards founder and event organiser China Mpololo said: “One cannot speak of Afro pop music without mentioning the name of Robbie Malinga. He was instrumental in the establishment of Afro music and he told our stories through music. Therefore it was only proper that we honour him.”
China said that this year’s event will celebrate 30 years of democracy.
He further told Sunday World that Yvonne Chakachaka, Tu Nokwe, Sam Mhangwani, Chicco Twala, Sandile Memela, Mandisa Dlanga, Thapelo Khomo, will receive Lifetime achievement awards.
“Most people had an impact for five or 10 years. So we decided to create categories that speak to different generations. For example Yvonne Chakachaka has been the ambassador of this country for a long time, he served our country beautifully,” said China.
“Most people know Lindelani Mkhize for Joyous Celebrations, they don’t know that he also played a huge role in Afro music. In fact, he introduced a number of big artists into Afro pop.
“This is going to be an exclusive event, people will attend by invitation only. This year we are celebrating 30 years of democracy, we’re celebrating people who made an impact in the last 30 years.”
He said that most people who have been nominated are Afro artists. It is people who are known and made meaningful impact all over the world.
He said there are 18 categories.
Malaika group has been nominated for Best Afro group and Bongani Chang of the group said: “I’m aware of the Awards. As a group we’re happy that we’re still recognised as a group. This is a great honour for us, we’re truly humbled.”
Sam said: “This means I’ve done what I was supposed to do. In most cases people are recognised when they are gone but I’m being honoured while I’m still alive. This means everything to me.”
