BY Nkosazana Ngwadla
With a career spanning over seven culture-defining albums, Zakes Bantwini, the polymathic South African musician, record label owner, businessman, and platinum-selling singer, songwriter, and producer, has reached a new pinnacle.
His outstanding contributions to the music industry have solidified him as a contemporary icon and earned him the prestigious South African Music Awards (SAMA) “International Achievement” accolade.
The recognition comes on the heels of Zakes Bantwini’s collaboration with Wouter Kellerman and Nomcebo Zikode on the chart-topping and Grammy-winning track “Bayethe.” This powerful song, meaning ‘Hail’ in isiZulu, is a poignant anthem for the global challenges humanity faces. “Bayethe” has garnered critical acclaim and clinched the Best Global Performance at the 2023 Grammy Awards for its sonically captivating and socially impactful prowess.
Zakes Bantwini’s illustrious career is further underscored by a string of prestigious awards, including the SAMA for SAMRO Highest Airplay Composers and Best Collaboration for “Osama,” the Metro FM Awards Best Male Award, Channel O Awards Video of the Year, and the GQ Musician of the Year Award.
In addition to his musical achievements, Zakes Bantwini has expanded his influence with entrepreneurial pursuits, exemplified by the successful launch of the ‘Abantu Concert,’ marking a significant milestone, bringing together music enthusiasts from all walks of life to celebrate the richness of South African musical heritage, at the iconic DHL Stadium in Cape Town, South Africa, in October.
Reflecting on this significant achievement, Zakes Bantwini shares: “Receiving the ‘International Achievement’ award from the SAMAS is an incredible honour and a testament to the power of music to connect people across borders. ‘Bayethe’ was a labour of love, and to see it connect with people worldwide is truly humbling. I am grateful for the recognition and for the opportunity to contribute to the global conversation through my music.”
As Zakes Bantwini stands tall amid his myriad of accomplishments, the “International Achievement Award” recognition from the SAMA committee serves as a well-deserved acknowledgement that positions him as a true contemporary icon in the modern sphere of musical excellence.
Image: Supplied
