THE 2024 Free State Gospel Music Awards took centre stage this past weekend, honouring the exceptional talent and creativity within the province’s gospel music industry.
Hosted in partnership with the Free State Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, the prestigious ceremony celebrates outstanding achievements of artists, producers and professionals who contribute to the region’s rich and diverse music landscape.
The MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Ntombizanele Sifuba, commended the winners, reaffirming her department’s commitment to nurturing and supporting initiatives that promote cultural and artistic excellence.
In her maiden budget vote speech, she said: “We will continue to support independent initiatives such as the . . . Free State Gospel Music Awards and others.
“These initiatives assist the department in further rolling out its mandate to areas where the department alone cannot reach.
“Partnerships should be the guiding torchlight in a quest to expand our reach as the department.”
The 2024 Free State Gospel Music Awards winners include an impressive line-up of local stars who have made a significant impact in the gospel music arena:
- Best Gospel Radio Presenter: Jan Khaoletsa
- Best Newcomer: Thapelo Duma
- Best Live Recording: Poolo Royalty
- Best Songwriter: Zanele Mulambo
- Best Collaboration: Mandla Maduna ft. Thabo K
- Best Free State Artist: Nomqibelo Lenong
- Best Song of the Year: MJ Selepe (Dithoko)
- Legendary Award: Tshepiso Mpotle
- Best Backing Vocalist: Tebello Mphulenyane
- Best Female Artist: Blessing Maya
- Best Male Artist: Sabata Bosiu
- Best Album: Israel Mosikidi
- Music Video of the Year: Thenjiwe Vilakazi
- Best Single of the Year: Lehlohonolo Mofokeng
- Recognition Award: Teboho Moruti
- Humanitarian Award: Dr Pinky Nkabinde