Latest news with #MetroFMMusicAwards
The Citizen
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Usimamane ‘so blessed and grateful' after being embraced by industry and global sneaker brand
South African rapper Usimamane is among the few artists who were swiftly embraced by both fans and the music industry. It takes several years for artists to be recognised and embraced by the industry. South African rapper Usimamane is one of those who was rapidly embraced by fans and the industry as a whole. 'It's really an honour, I feel so blessed and grateful', real name Omuhleumnguni Simamane, told The Citizen. 'I feel so seen and heard, you know. And you know, when you're doing what we're doing [rap], not a lot of people believe in what you're doing. So finally I get to have these global brands doing what they're doing for me.' The 21-year-old spoke to The Citizen on Thursday at the Converse Love Chuck event, where he was named as an ambassador of the global sneaker brand. ALSO READ: Must get! Travis Scott tickets for FNB Stadium still up for grabs Usimamane the fashionista Usimamane says he always had a dream of being a model one day, despite his shy personality, and says his collaboration with Converse is somewhat a ticking of that box. 'I'm not into fashion like that, but I've always had a dream to be a model one day. I always wanted to be on the runway,' the rapper said. He says being an ambassador of a fashion brand had its challenges. 'Getting dressed and putting on new clothes and all of that; that was a little bit tricky for me since I'm camera-shy. I'm not too comfortable when it comes to being on camera,' said the rapper, adding that being in front of the camera is different from recording in studio. 'Recording in studio is one thing, going outside to perform the song in front of like 2000 people is one thing. But like cameras… I'm not doing what I'm really good at, I'm still new,' he said. 'I'm very honoured to be in that position, to actually be like the guy who's gonna be a bridge when it comes to fashion and music…a lot of guys have been doing it, but they do it by making clothes and stuff. I can make clothes, but I just wanna rap.' ALSO READ: WATCH: Modise Sekgothe, a poet equipped in the exercise of digging deep and baring himself naked New music Despite not winning the Hip Hop artist of the year award at this year's Metro FM Music Awards, Usimamane was named the Best Male artist of 2025, owing to a successful 18 to 20 months. Usimamane said his debut album, 19th, didn't fully capture his life story and said he will unveil more of who he is in upcoming projects. 'With my first album, I didn't actually bring everything to it, in terms of explaining where I'm coming from, and you know when I dropped my album, a lot of stuff happened, new inspirations…now it's no longer talking about the grind, the struggle. Now it's about being free and doing what you want to do.' NOW READ: What to watch this weekend: 'F1: The Movie' with Brad Pitt and burnouts at 300km/h
IOL News
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Woodblock DJs achieve double platinum with 'Skuta Baba' remix
With viral hits and high-profile collaborations under their belt, Sicelo Nkomo (ButterNutt) and Mthobisi Vuma continue to redefine the boundaries of homegrown dance music. They stole the spotlight at the 2025 Metro FM Music Awards and now, Woodblock DJs are riding yet another career high. The genre-bending duo, Sicelo 'ButterNutt' Nkomo and Mthobisi Vuma, have officially received Double Platinum certification for their chart-blazing 'Skuta Baba Remix'. The remix, which expanded on the already electric original, features a heavyweight lineup of Cassper Nyovest, Kwesta, Buzzi Lee, Tony Dayimane, Kane Keid, Mvelost, and Set Off. Together, they created an anthem that resonated far beyond the music charts, becoming a cultural movement powered by unity, rhythm, and street-born authenticity. Speaking to IOL Entertainment, Woodblock DJs shared insight into the remix's creation, their approach to collaboration, and what's next for their ever-evolving sound. When the DJs created the 'Skuta Baba Remix', they had a clear vision.
IOL News
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Rapper K. O wows fans at Martell and Makubenjalo marquee at Hollywoodbets Durban July
K.O mesmerises fans at the Martell and Makubenjalo marquee. Image: Instagram/mrcashtime Rapper K.O performed at the Martell and Makubenjalo marquee at the Hollywoodbets Durban July where he took music lovers on a trip down memory lane. After his fire performance, which had everyone singing along, K.O spoke to IOL about his experience at the marquee, a new arrival at the Hollywoodbets Durban July. 'I think this is probably, the most fun marquee. I'm not gonna lie, there's a lot of dope people in there. The energy is great, and of course, Martell is the hottest thing.' Having performed at the various marquees at the Hollywoodbets Durban July for close to 20 years, K.O reflected that it was a blessing to be still able to do what he does. 'Being here, continuously getting the business and the reception that is still endless to this day, to me it's just an honour.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ In June, K.O released a new 14-track album, "Phara City", which takes a look into the current socio-political climate of South Africa. He reflected that it has been encouraging to have people receive the message he is trying to push across. 'I'm not only entertaining people, but I'm also just informing and educating the listeners because there's a lot of real things outside of just us dancing and doing all these things. 'There's a lot of real things happening in the country, and we especially the hip-hop guys, we have a voice. We have the platform to actually use our creative platform to reflect the times. 'That's basically what I was trying to do with Phara City and I hope the album will age well in the years to come.' K.O has plans to hold album launches across the country, with Durban being on the cards very soon, and plans to take on Africa as well. He also hinted at wanting to make limited vinyl copies of the album. The Martell and Makubenjalo marquee was hosted by Metro FM radio presenter and DJ Lamiez Holworthy, who rocked a custom statement white dress by Q'Mane. Holworthy worked with Q'Mane on her looks for the Metro FM Music Awards, landing her on the best-dressed lists and once again they created magic. 'I keep switching it up, it's something new all the time and it's amazing to experience it,' Q'Mane told IOL. 'That people love it, that warms my heart. Because if the people are receiving it well, then it means I'm doing great.' For its first time at the Hollywoodbets Durban July, Martell and Makubenjalo marquee has received praise from attendees for not being sold out but well organised, great entertainment from Blxckie to Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa that had them dancing the night away. IOL Entertainment
IOL News
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
How K. O remains a dominant force in South African hip-hop
South African rapper Ntokozo 'K.O' Mdluli is gearing up for the release of his highly-anticipated album titled 'Phara City', on June 13, 2025. Image: Supplied It may spark debate, but renowned rapper Ntokozo 'K.O' Mdluli continues to prove why he remains one of South Africa's best artists. With a career spanning nearly two decades, K.O has maintained a strong and relevant presence in the entertainment industry. From his early days as part of the hip-hop group Teargas to his successful solo career and business ventures, K.O has consistently stayed at the heart of South African culture. At the 2025 Metro FM Music Awards held in Mpumalanga, K.O walked away with the award for Best Hip Hop Song for his hit single "Too Much" featuring Nasty C. He took to the stage twice, once during the main awards show and again at the festival after-party concert, where his performance celebrated his win and journey. 'You need to constantly be evolving and making sure that you stay ahead of the curve and try to stay up to date with everything that is playing out within the field,' he told IOL when asked about the secret to his longevity. At his core, K.O is a strategic businessman who understands the importance of partnerships, networking, and aligning with the right brands to ensure survival in the cutthroat music industry. Under his belt is Skhanda World, a successful record label, clothing line, and lifestyle company. He has also secured partnerships with brands such as Martell, World Sports Betting, Volvo, and Fibertime. 'It's not just about a good deal in terms of money. I go where my value is appreciated and where partnerships make the most sense,' he emphasized. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ K.O makes calculated decisions when considering collaborations, always ensuring brand alignment and a clear understanding of the product. Growing up in a disadvantaged area in Mpumalanga, K.O understands the challenges of limited access to resources such as high-performance internet. Through his partnership with Fibertime, he is helping to drive a game-changing fibre solution designed specifically for townships. 'We've visited some of these communities, like when I was in Gugulethu, talking to customers and hearing their stories. 'It's little things like that which matter, where we're trying to make life easier for people who don't have the same access and privileges,' he explained. At the age of 44, K.O serves as an inspiration to many young South Africans, who see him as a role model. 'If you are setting a great example and consciously striving to uplift others, that energy and influence rub off positively on people. 'I'm all about positivity and making a meaningful impact in the community. That's something I'm now consciously committed to doing right,' he said. On June 13, K.O will release his fifth studio album, "Phara City" a project he promises longtime fans will appreciate as a return to his signature sound. The rapper is keenly aware of evolving listening patterns and the oversaturation of music available to audiences today. He revealed that "Phara City" took more than a year to craft carefully, creating timeless moments that will give the album a lasting impact. K.O is excited for fans to experience this body of work, which also serves as social commentary on life in South Africa, even though he typically steers clear of overt political statements. For the album's rollout, K.O took to the streets to hear the real-life stories of people often labeled as 'Iphara', a township slang term for junkies or drug addicts.
IOL News
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
eThekwini Municipality's investment in Metro FM Music Awards sparks debate
The eThekwini Municipality has announced that Durban will host the Metro FM Music Awards. Image: Willem Phungula The announcement that the eThekwini Municipality is to host the Metro FM Music Awards has drawn mixed reactions from city councillors and ratepayers. Some councillors felt the idea was not negative, as the City does need to be competitive. However, a ratepayers group said the city should not be involved in such sponsorships, suggesting that there are many businesspeople who could have been approached to fund the event. Last week, the City announced that it has committed to an agreement to be the host city of the popular Metro FM Music Awards, with an investment of R25 million over the next three financial years (2025/26, 2026/27, and 2027/28). This partnership positions Durban as a leading events destination, boosts tourism, creates jobs, and enhances the city's brand visibility, both nationally and internationally, it said. ActionSA councillor Zwakele Mncwango expressed concerns about the process followed in the approval of this deal. He stated that while the City needs to compete for events, the issue lies in how the funds are being spent. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading 'We have not seen any report before council, and the fact that it is being announced before the council, which is the highest decision-making body, has a say, tells us that council is being used to rubber stamp this decision by the officials. This should have come to council first before they committed to hosting the Metro awards. The decision disregards the role of council. One wonders if the deal has been signed; that will be a concern for us as Action SA, that it is coming from which budget as we have not budgeted for the Metro,' he said. Ish Pradlah also expressed concerns, stating, 'Why does the City of eThekwini want to spend so much money on the Metro FM Awards when we have such big businessmen and companies that benefit and get awarded tenders from the City and rake in millions from the city coffers and ratepayers' money? 'They should be the ones to sponsor awards like this and make it less of a burden for the ratepayers. Rich businessmen and entrepreneurs should give back to the City of eThekwini and lessen the cost to the city.' THE MERCURY
