South African music legend Yvonne Chaka Chaka is once again honouring the often-overlooked voices behind the country’s greatest hits. The biennial Backing Vocalists and Session Musicians (BVSM) Awards, founded by the “Princess of Africa,” return on October 26 for their fifth edition, celebrating the artists whose work has shaped the industry from behind the scenes.
This year, Bruce Sebitlo of Brothers of Peace will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, while Shumi Diseko, Thembi Kubheka, and Tiny Mbuli will also be recognised for their contributions. Record label executive Phil Hollis will be presented with a Special Award, and the late Phumzile Ntuli – a distinguished vocalist who collaborated with Mango Groove, Letta Mbulu, Caiphus Semenya, and Chaka Chaka herself – will be honoured posthumously.
Chaka Chaka, who launched the BVSM Awards in 2015 after years of self-funding and persistence, says the initiative is deeply personal.
“In 1988, I saw how unfair things were for session musicians. People didn’t understand the lengths they went to. Some would wait outside studios like Gallo or EMI, hoping for a chance to play on a recording. They could transform a song, yet were paid just R150, with no recognition,” she recalls.
Initially dismissed by funders, Chaka Chaka invested her own resources to make the awards possible. Support eventually came from then-Tshwane mayor Kgosientso Ramokgopa, enabling the inaugural ceremony to take place in the city.
Past honourees include renowned backing vocalists such as Mandisa Dlanga, Stella Khumalo, Faith Kekana, Marilyn Nokwe, and Themba Mokoena, whose voices helped define albums by Johnny Clegg, Ray Phiri, and Mahlathini and the Mahotella Queens.
This year’s nominees highlight both established and emerging talent.
- Best Male Vocalist: Reuben Malgas, Sabata Masoka, Mfanelo Ntlama
- Best Female Vocalist: Nelisiwe Kunene, Maboni Gabela, Nomfundo Sambo
- Digital Session Musician: DJ Fisherman, Faxa Dube, Thasman
- Gospel: Buhle Nhlangulela, Muzie B, Moo Mosa
- Jazz Vocalist: Mahlatse Maphosa, Vuyo Tshuma, Mimi Mtshali
The awards will also spotlight rising stars, with Nvcho, Makhanj, and Thatohatsi nominated for Rookie Vocalist, and Moscow on Keyz, Sipho Magudulela, and Xolani Guitars in the Rookie Instrumentalist category.
“These are the voices and talents that give life to the music we love, yet too often go unrecognised,” Chaka Chaka says. “The BVSM Awards are about restoring dignity and celebrating their immense contributions.”
Author: Mpheza Clara Manda
Luska, Zambia
Senior Correspondent
with Nvcho, Makhanj, and Thatohatsi nominated for Rookie Vocalist, and Moscow on Keyz
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