SAMAs to honour Ndlovu Youth Choir, Dan Tshanda and Benjamin Dube

Additionally, this year's International Achiever Award will go to the Ndlovu Youth Choir in recognition of its performances on America’s Got Talent where it reached the finals. The group has now signed a recording contract with Sony Music in partnership with Syco Entertainment. It has also been nominated in the Best Adult Contemporary Album category.

“It’s a double whammy as SAMA26 decorates the already colourful careers of these sons of the soil,” RiSA CEO Nhlanhla Sibisi said. “This is the highest honour from the SAMA and to have artists of this calibre accept it is a compliment to us and further proof that the SAMA remains the most coveted and prestigious music award ceremony in the country.

"We are particularly pleased that one of our recipients, Bishop Benjamin Dube, is alive to see the industry honour him. To Dan Tshanda’s family, this is our contribution in his memory and a celebration of his legacy that we wish brings you comfort. We also beam with pride for the success of Ndlovu Youth Choir and the exemplary spirit that shows to all African youths that everything is possible. They are worthy of the honour of International Achievement Award. A hearty congratulations to our recipients."

Dube began his ministry in 1986 with the crossover hit ‘Holy Spirit’, which sold more than 25 000 units. His debut album I Feel Like Going On was certified platinum in South Africa, helping the musician amass a large following in the country and beyond. He is now a prominent public speaker who has shared podiums with the likes of former South African presidents Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki as well as religious leaders like Bishop TD Jakes, Kirk Franklin and Andrae Crouch.

Tshanda, who died in early 2019, will be recognised for his contributions to the South African music industry with a posthumous award. The musician dominated the 1980s bubblegum pop scene with his production prowess, rising to national stardom with his group Splash following the release of 1986 album Peacock. His works include other albums such as Snake, Tshokotshoko, Eye for an Eye, Khoma Khoma and Why? In the 2000s he released a string of best-selling albums under his own Dalom Music Distributors label, which included Ndivhuwo and Sethopha.

The 2020 SAMAs will be broadcast daily from 3 to 7 August.

View all the nominees here.