Brenda Mtambo, the soulful powerhouse, is celebrating a major milestone in her career – her first-ever South African Music Awards (SAMAs) nominations, ten years into a successful music journey. The 41-year-old artist was officially revealed as a nominee at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, and her excitement is palpable.
Nominated in three prestigious categories – Best African Adult Contemporary Album, Best Engineered Album, and Female Artist of the Year – Mtambo is up against some of the country’s biggest stars, including Tyla, Lwah Ndlunkulu, Lordkez, and Xolly Mncwango. For Mtambo, these nominations are a long-awaited recognition of her dedication to her craft.
“As cliché as it sounds, being nominated for an award will never get old,” she shared in an interview with Sowetan LIVE. “What’s special about these three nominations is that it’s my first time being nominated for a SAMA in my decade-long career. Also, I’m not nominated just once but three times. How amazing is that?”
Despite her elation, Mtambo remains humble, acknowledging that awards aren’t everything. “In the same breath, it wouldn’t be fair if I said I wasn’t seen in the industry based on not getting nominated for a SAMA. I don’t do what I do to get awards but because of the love I have for it,” she explained.
Her passion for music shines through as she reflects on what truly matters: “I don’t want to lie, I feel heard and seen. I hope to walk away with at least one award. The most important thing is to do what you’re called to and do it with your heart and be sincere. Even if you have just five people supporting your music, just do it well and give it your all. Eventually, people will get to see you and acknowledge you.”
