Mohalenyane Phakela
THE inaugural Ultimate Music Awards, held at Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village on Saturday, passed off seamlessly without the glitches normally associated with fledgling events.
Despite the rain constantly threatening to scupper the event, the awards ceremony defied the odds and went on till morning, with revelers reluctantly leaving at around 6am.
Speaking at the gala event, Ultimate FM Director, Mabatho Lithebe, said the main idea behind the awards ceremony was to appreciate the efforts of local musicians.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everybody who made this night a success,” said Lithebe.
“When we first sat down and planned this event, it felt like a farfetched dream.
“Our intention is to uplift the spirits of local artists who have worked so hard to entertain the nation even though the industry does not pay them as much their efforts deserve.”
The red-carpet event portrayed, for the first time, the glitz and glam of the local entertainment scene. It had all the makings of a glamourous event with elegant models lined on the red-carpet to usher guests to their seats.
Segmented into 11 categories, the Best Kwaito Album went to Lavida Loca, Best Gospel, Khotso Ntlama, Best Compilation, Sir Schaba, Best RnB, Sphiwe Nzima, Best Jazz, Lele Khasue, Best Dance, Phakzino, Best Hip Hop, Juvinile, Best Newcomer, Sir Schaba, Best Producer, DJ Slats and Song of the Year to Paul Lewake.
The nominees put up outstanding performances during the ceremony, with the tribute to the late Ultimate FM presenter, Miss P, standing out. Entitled Missing You, the song is a collaboration between a number of rappers and vocalist Lebo.
Towards the early hours of Sunday, DJ Mekonko and Bhudaza collaborated with the Jazz musician on his saxophone while the disc spinner played his House set, much to the delight of the surprised crowd.
