EC music awards to celebrate province’s top talent

IT’S all systems go for the second annual Eastern Cape Music Awards (ECMAs) on Saturday at the Abbotsford Christian Centre.

Awards founder Koko Godlo said his team was ready for the event.

“We were busy doing the dry run and everything is good. On Monday I did an interview on Morning Live (SABC2) and also on Umhlobo Wenene FM and everyone is excited. The awards are happening,” he said.

The ECMAs received a R500 000 sponsorship from Buffalo City Metro and have partnered with the Daily Dispatch, Bay TV, Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency, Media LED and SABC1 show Selimathunzi.

Despite being held on same day as the Metro FM Music Awards, Godlo said they had secured everything needed to ensure the ECMAs were a success.

Godlo said SABC1’s lifestyle show Selimathunzi and Bay TV would cover the red carpet on the night. Selimathunzi director Baby Joe confirmed to the Daily Dispatch that presenter Siphesihle Vazi would cover the awards.

“When I was in Johannesburg this week I was approached by Vuzu (DStv channel). They also want to come and cover the event. People must bring their Sunday best. This is going to be big,” Godlo said.

Some of the musicians expected to perform on the night include Nathi, Ntando, Berita, Vusi Nova, Mashava, Anisto S, Lil G, Timoti, D J Bino, Mdantsane Gospel Choir, Yongama and Mavie-M.

“We have something for everyone, from afro-soul to house music. We wanted to make sure that no one feels left out and we have also ensured that most artists who will be performing on the night are Eastern Cape based,” Godlo said.

Unlike the first awards, the winners would get more than a trophy.

“There will be some compensation to the winners and a medal as well,” Godlo said.

The 15 categories include: artist of the year; song of the year; best male and female artists; and best hip-hop, kwaito, afro-pop, gospel, music and dance artists.

Some of the artists nominated include Berita, Zahara, Betusile Mcinga, Ntando, Mashava, iFani, Mobi Dixon, Nathi Mankayi and gospel couple Butho and Yolanda Vuthela.

There are also awards for best DJ, best community radio station, community radio programme, radio DJ, and the best newcomer.

Tickets for the event cost R190 and are available through Computicket. — traditional