By Sitha Maliwa:
Two voices. Two trailblazers. Two women whose music has become woven into the fabric of South Africa’s cultural identity.
As Gallo Music marks an extraordinary 100 years of shaping, preserving and championing African music, the iconic record company has joined forces with the Basadi in Music Awards to bestow one of its most prestigious honours on legendary artists Simphiwe Dana and Thandiswa Mazwai.
The pair will receive the special Gallo Renaissance Award, a recognition reserved for women whose artistry, influence and unwavering commitment to African storytelling have transformed the musical landscape and inspired generations.
The announcement forms part of Gallo Music’s centenary celebrations, a milestone that reflects a century of capturing the soundtrack of a nation. In honouring Dana and Mazwai, Gallo is not only celebrating two remarkable careers but also recognising two cultural forces whose voices have challenged boundaries, preserved heritage and elevated African identity on the global stage.
For more than two decades, Simphiwe Dana has stood as one of South Africa’s most powerful and distinctive voices. Through music rooted in African spirituality, history and social consciousness, she has captivated audiences while remaining fiercely committed to authenticity. Her songs have become more than music; they have become a call to remember, reflect and reclaim African heritage.
Equally influential, Thandiswa Mazwai has spent decades redefining what African music can be. From her groundbreaking years with Bongo Maffin to her celebrated solo career, she has consistently pushed creative boundaries while remaining unapologetically African. Her artistry has resonated across continents, earning her recognition as one of the country’s most respected cultural icons.
Together, Dana and Mazwai represent a generation of artists who refused to be confined by convention. Instead, they created music that challenged stereotypes, celebrated African excellence and gave voice to stories often left untold.
Basadi in Music Awards Founder and Chief Executive Officer Hloni Modise Matau said the partnership with Gallo Music was a fitting tribute to two women whose impact extends far beyond the stage.
“Simphiwe Dana and Thandiswa Mazwai embody everything the Gallo Renaissance Award stands for: courage, excellence, authenticity and cultural impact. They have consistently used their voices to tell our stories, challenge boundaries and inspire generations of women across Africa.”
Speaking on behalf of Gallo Music, Antos Stella said the award recognises artists whose music has become part of South Africa’s collective memory.
“For 100 years, Gallo Music has celebrated the artists whose music has become part of our nation’s story. Their artistry, integrity and unwavering commitment to authentic African storytelling have earned them a place among our country’s greatest cultural icons.”
The honour comes as the Basadi in Music Awards celebrates its fifth anniversary under the theme REWIND, reflecting on five years of recognising and amplifying the achievements of women in the music industry.
This year’s awards are more than a celebration of achievement. They are a tribute to legacy. A recognition of artists who have shaped culture, challenged perceptions and opened doors for future generations.
When Simphiwe Dana and Thandiswa Mazwai take to the stage to receive the Gallo Renaissance Award at the Joburg Theatre on 7 and 8 August, it will be more than an awards moment.
It will be the meeting of history and legacy. A celebration of two extraordinary women whose voices have not only defined an era but continue to shape the future of African music.- @NewsSA_Online
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