The fifth annual South African Traditional Music Awards (Satmas) saw five members of the first family presenting prizes, including President Jacob Zuma. The event took place at the Nkosi Albert Luthuli ICC in Durban on Saturday.
The Satmas have always had strong support from President Zuma who has always attended or sent a representative to the event, even before he became president.
For those who are still in the dark, the Satmas were established to recognise our traditional music, from all cultures, after it was felt the MTN Samas (South African Music Awards) were treating |these categories and musicians as red-headed step-children.
Organised by Mr Laloo Gopa, with main sponsorship from the National Lottery, the Satmas have found a spiritual as well as political home in Durban, with more sponsorship coming from both local and provincial levels.
Seated at the main table were Mr Gopa, eThekwini Mayor Obed Mlaba, Deputy Mayor Logie Naidoo, Premier Zweli Mkhize, President Zuma and his wife MaKhumalo. His other wives MaNtuli and Thobeka Madiba-Zuma were scattered throughout the ICC. All three wives presented prizes as did one of Zuma's 20 children, Gugu Zuma, a soapie star on SABC3's Isidingo. Jeez, talk about ZEE!
Anyway, what was interesting to note was the lukewarm reception MaNtuli received when she was announced as a category presenter. Clearly, the Durban crowd does not approve of a woman who allegedly cheated on her polygamous hubby. The crowd did, however, cheer loudly for the president's oldest wife, the graceful MaKhumalo.
"She didn't speak at all on stage," said another presenter, Penny Lebyane, "but at least I got to tell her I love her backstage."
The show ran smoothly, with the Generations cast dominating the category presenters. There was Khetiwe, Ruby, Kenneth, Dumisani, Queen and Paul.
It was hosted by Jam Alley's effervescent Twasa and Imizwilili's Vee Mthembu, both of whom did a great job.
Thokozani Langa was the only artist to walk away with two awards - Best Maskandi and Best Video. Of course, Ukhozi FM won Best Traditional Music Radio Programme. They're becoming like the Rebecca Malope of the Satmas! As is Thomas Chauke, who again won the Best Shangaan category.
Khuli Chana won Best Vernacular Hip Hop and Afrosoul won in Best Afro Soul. Best Praise Singer went to David Leshomo, he of the FNB world cup campaign.
Song of the Year went to Malini, while Best Upcoming Artist was awarded to Abafana Baka Dladla.
The low points were the atrocious sound and the fact that the house lights were on throughout the show. This detracted from the performances on stage. And for heaven's sake, how can one put on a musical event of this stature and then forfeit good sound? This has never been a problem before, so why was it this weekend? Tut, tut.
In the president's speech, he suggested that perhaps we have awards for second and third place because that would be fairer. Well, Mr President, unlike a school gala and your family, there are generally only three to five finalists. Therefore it is considered an honour just to be nominated. Award ceremonies are about the celebration of excellence. If you are looking for fairness, maybe asked the Gupta brothers to nominate more of the First Family's offspring to their board of directors.