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Zakes Bantwini, Nomcebo Zikode bag first-ever nomination at Grammys

SOUTH African artists Zakes Bantwini and Nomcebo Zikode have received their first Grammy nominations – they were announced as nominees in the best global music performance category this week.

The pair were nominated for the award alongside South African flautist, producer and composer Wouter Kellerman for their recent single Bayethe.

Kellerman has previously won the Grammy Award for Best New Age, ambient or chant album.

The trio will compete against Burna Boy, Matt B, Aroof Aftab, Anoushka Shankar and Rocky Dawuni for the award at the 65th annual ceremony at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles in February.

“Congratulations 65th #GRAMMYs Best Global Music Performance nominees: @arooj_aftab & @shankaranoushka; @mattbworld & @eddykenzo; @burnaboy; @rockydawuni ft. @BLVKH3RO; and @wouterkellerman, @ZakesBantwiniSA & @Nomcebozikode: grm.my/3Ai0IR4,” the Grammys announced on Twitter.

Burna Boy's nomination marks the fourth year he's been nominated at the awards in a row. This year he's nominated in the categories best global music performance and best global music album.

Two years ago, the Nigerian Afrobeat star claimed his first Grammy when he won the Best Global Music Album for Twice As Tall. With his single Last Last on a tear across the globe and his new album Love, Damini gaining steam, he'll be a favourite in both categories.

Ghanaian star Rocky Dawuni, who's been nominated several times in the past, celebrated his nomination on Twitter. “I am truly honored to be nominated for another #Grammy award for my song “Never Bow Down” feat. @BLVKH3RO,” he posted.

“This is huge for Africa and the Caribbean coming together on this global roots anthem!”