The people shaping African music do not always hold the microphone, but their decisions can determine how far an artist’s career goes. From the managers negotiating deals to the publishers protecting royalties and publicists building visibility, the business behind the music is getting its own moment of recognition through the inaugural Music Business Awards Africa.
Set to take place on Saturday, 21 November 2026, at Mercedes-Benz Sandton, the awards will recognise the individuals and companies working behind the scenes to develop talent, build sustainable careers and keep the music industry moving.
Founded by Gift Mdlalose, the Music Business Awards Africa aims to address a familiar gap in music award culture, where performers often receive the spotlight while the professionals responsible for developing and sustaining their careers remain largely overlooked.
“For years, I’ve watched the music industry celebrate what audiences see on stage, while many of the people responsible for building those careers remain largely invisible,” says Mdlalose.
“Managers, A&Rs, publishers, lawyers, PR professionals, booking agents, educators and music companies are critical to the ecosystem. The Music Business Awards Africa was created to give that side of the industry its own credible platform for recognition.”
The awards will feature individual, company and special merit categories, reflecting the many disciplines that contribute to a functioning music business.
Among the individual categories are Best Artist Manager of the Year, Best A&R Manager of the Year, Best Commercial Songwriter of the Year, Breakthrough Independent Artist of the Year, Industry Champion Award and Young Legend Award.
Meanwhile, company categories cover independent record labels, artist management, music publishing, music law, live music events, booking agencies, public relations and marketing, music education and music business conferences. Platforms that help artists amplify their music and reach new audiences will also be recognised.
Beyond the trophies, the initiative arrives at a time when African music continues to attract international attention, making the professionals behind its growth increasingly important. Building a successful music career requires more than a hit song; it also demands effective management, rights protection, strategic marketing, commercial partnerships and access to opportunities.
By recognising these contributions, the awards also aim to introduce aspiring professionals to career paths beyond performing, while encouraging collaboration and greater investment across the music ecosystem.
The inaugural ceremony takes place on 21 November 2026 at Mercedes-Benz Sandton. Music industry professionals and enthusiasts can follow @musicbusiness_awards and @musicbusiness_academy for updates on the event, voting and nominees.
For the full nominees list and further information, visit www.musicbusinessawards.com.
