I have just returned from Taboo, in Sandton where 16th edition of the MTN South African Music Awards was launched and the nominations for this year were announced.

This year the organisers decided to cancel the press conference that usually takes place a few hours before the actual launch and nomination announcement in an attempt to streamline the process. Although it may have worked for the purposes intended, the chaos that was created by the lack of communication in this regard was clearly visible.

Chaotic ramblings do not end there, the yellow carpet at the venue where the media had set up had its share of mis-happenings. Since there was nobody directing the yellow carpet segment of the evening, photographers were fighting over space, most even invading the actual carpet to take pictures and camera crews to interview the talent that cam to find out if they were nominated for any of the gongs.

It seems the disappointments were the order of the day as the crowds were confused once the nominees were announced. The way it was planned was that only a few big and main categories would be announced and the rest displayed on the screens later when the DJ was playing the music and also on the flyers that we were handed out. This is not a bad idea, but we wish someone would have told us about this.

Fr example, I spoke to Metro FM DJ Sentle Lehoko who relayed his disappointment in driving so far for the 2 minutes (at the most) announcement. He also shared his unhappiness at the music compilers at the station who seem clueless as to what his listeners want on a Sunday evening. But I digress.

The evening continued with some fun for a change. Last year’s biggest winner, Lira, sizzled performing her hit track Believer, starting it with the original mix and then changing it up mid-song with the Jazzworx remix to the same catchy tune. Hip hop outfit also performed their latest single from their album Wild Life that was released towards the end of last year. To mix things up, Foto Na Dans took to the stage to rock the crowds. It was not only music that was on display though, but fashion as well. A few designers showcased their threads in mini-fashion shows in-between the performances.

This was a time when the industry, the media and other guests got to mingle. I had a chat with a few of them. Like Brian Temba, whose manager Mandisa Makalima showed disappointment that her expectations had been dashed. Brian Temba is only nominated in one category, Best R&B/Neo-Soul Album. I actually agree with her, Something Better is a solid album that could have contended in many other categories, even Best Newcomer.

Showing excitement was Zuluboy who was elated for getting a nomination in a category (MTN Record of the Year) where you wouldn’t conventionally get one as a rapper, in which both him and HHP were nominated. The food, which took so ling to arrive, was finally served and drinks were freely flowing. Although not as fun as last year’s event at Cedar Square, it had its moments.

The 16th Annual MTN South African Music Awards takes place on the weekend of the 16th April at their resident home at the Superbowl in Sun City. Start voting now for your favourite tune to take away the top prize as the MTN Record of the Year.

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