Johannesburg - It has been a winning week for artists showcasing their talent and getting international recognition and accolades overseas.
And with the internationally acclaimed local star DJ Black Coffee’s win of the tightly contested 2016 BET award for Best International Act: Africa over the weekend in a glitzy awards ceremony in Los Angeles, the spotlight and respect for local artists abroad has been turned up a few notches.
The further recognition for the multi-award-winning DJ, whose real name is Nkosinathi Maphumulo, prompted a nod from President Jacob Zuma.
He joined the chorus of applause on Sunday: “DJ Black Coffee continues to inspire our youth with this achievement and has now become our prime international export in the music industry, as an example of South African youth talent.
“Our nation is immensely proud of him and this achievement in particular. We congratulate him most heartily.”
DJ Black Coffee took to Instagram, posting a video of a balloon with the word “Champ #1” written on it while musician Louie Vega, featuring Bucie’s Angels are Watching Me, played in the background.
“For the past four to five years I have been doing tours outside my country, in the last two years even relocating my family with me while on tour to make everything work. Taking our South African music to places I can’t even pronounce.
"I’m greatful (sic) to my lady and my kids for allowing me to chase my dreams unconditionally”, he wrote on the social media site before thanking his team and the music label behind him.
“A BET award comes to our land for the first time, this is a great honour. We did not do this alone, thank you for all your votes, thank you for the love”.
Hip hop royalty Cassper Nyovest and AKA also had their share of milestone moments last week.
Nyovest was featured for an interview on the US show Sway in the Morning, where he spoke of his career and the evolution of local hip hop, and also “free-styled” on the show, showcasing his rap skills.
AKA also had his round of interviews, with an interview on the American hip hop and R&B music show 106 & Park.
He also performed at the BET Experience main stage.
AKA posted a picture of himself on the stage performing on Twitter, saying in capital letters: “Our heritage, our culture, our identity.
"Black America wants to reconnect. Get involved! We are in charge chief.”