The 12th Metro FM Awards were held at Durban’s International Conference Centre on Saturday evening with performances by Dr Malinga, Motswako rapper Khuli Chana, Afro-pop group Mafikizolo and more.
The awards ceremony was hosted by Metro FM presenters Azania Ndoro and Robert Marawa, who held the show together well, despite the unfortunate appearances of politicians and SABC board members who presented various awards.
The event featured a highly-anticipated medley perforemed by two of the host city’s popular pop artists: Khaya Mthethwa and Toya Delazy, who was cheered on by her grandfather Chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi who was seated in the front row.
The lifetime achievement award was given to singer and longtime producer of the late Brenda Fassie, Sello ‘Chico’ Twala, who dedicated his award to the African National Congress during his acceptance speech, which saw former police commissioner Bheki Cele rising to his feet in applause.
Donald Moatshe, who is best known for his songs Denial and Deserve, was nominated for six awards, and walked away with the best produced album and best styled artist/group awards.
Another big winner for the night was kwaito artist Professor Langa who won for best kwaito album and best male album.
Winners were chosen based on votes that were sent via SMS by their fans and followers.
After just over a month of lobbying for votes, these were the winners:
Best African pop album: Berita – Conquering Spirit
Best compilation album: Kalawa Jazmee 2012 – Pre Release
Best produced album: Donald – Train of Love
Best dance album: DJ Pepsi – Royal House
Best female album: Zonke – Ina Ethe
Best group album: The Muffinz – Have You Heard?
Song of the year: Oskido – Tsa Mandebele
Best hit single: AKA – Jealousy
Best hip-hop album: Zakwe – Zakwe
Best contemporary jazz album: Mbuso Khoza – Zilindile
Best kwaito album: Professor – The Orientation
Best male album: Professor – The Orientation
Best newcomer: Khaya Mthethwa – For You
Best R&B album: Bryce Anderson – Ready for the World
Best styled artist/group: Donald – Train of Love
Best Collaboration of the Year: Khuli Chana – Tswa Daar
Best music video: Jullian Gomes – Love Song 28
Best urban gospel album: Solly Mahlangu – Mwamba Mwamba
Best digital download: Arthur Mafokate – Hlokoloza
Lifetime achievement award: Sello "Chico" Twala