Music fans hoping to cast a vote for local performing artists nominated for the 2023 Central Music Awards (CMA), have until 30 May to make their voices heard. Voting via SMS will officially close at midnight on the day in question and fans are encouraged to vote.
The winners in the 23 categories are set to be unveiled at a function to be held in Bloemfontein during July. No less than 115 artists have been nominated across all categories.
This will be the second time the awards are held, with the inaugural event having been held last year.
The music awards is aimed at recognising and celebrating achievements by performing artists in the central region. This is an initiative by the Alah Yen Arts Foundation, a non-profit organisation (NPO) based in Bloemfontein.
The event’s team of adjudicators will employ criteria such as artist brand visibility, performances and bookings, music released, and valid registration with music industry agencies to decide on a winner.
Music agencies serving as watchdogs include the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (Samro); the Composers, Authors and Publishers Association (Capasso); the South African Music Performance Rights Association (Sampra); and the Recording Industry of South Africa (Risa).
There are four to six nominated performing artists, soloists, bands, clap and tap groups, as well as DJs in each of the 23 categories the public can vote for.
In the category for best female DJ of the year, nominees include Bloemfontein’s DJ Tshegu, DJ Lungiswa, DJ Puggy, DJ Tshegu and Ladysta DJ. The best newcomer of the year category features Manghwev Keys, DJ Buckzito, Diz Kid, DJ Tcee, Taiidow and Somax.
To vote, send “CMAwards” followed by the artist code, available on the CMA’s social media pages, to 45139.
