Xhosa nation to celebrate its icons and legends at music awards

Businessman China Mpololo will host the Xhosa Music Awards in celebration of 30 years of democracy.

The awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on July 27 at Artscape in Cape Town with nine categories.

Speaking to TshisaLIVE, China said it is time they recognise Xhosa people.

“All of them, Ringo, Simphiwe Dana, Vusi Nova, Lusanda, they never had the opportunity of being celebrated by our tribe. It is essential for us to take the initiative and create the environment for people to celebrate the icons and legends for the good work they've done in flying high the flag of the Xhosa nation, hence we say Siqala Ekhaya (we are starting from home)”, he said.

China said many Africans continue to be ashamed of their cultures, traditions and rituals.

“The Xhosa Music Awards is a platform to reintroduce Xhosa people and Africans globally to the beauty of who they are, their music, dance, language and so on. The Xhosa Music Awards will initially honour and celebrate music and dance”, he said.

Asked why the awards are being hosted in Cape Town, he said: ” Initially the event was planned to be held in the Eastern Cape, where most Xhosa-speaking people are from, but unfortunately we couldn't find a venue. The second option was Cape Tow. When we told people this year are we celebrating 30 years of democracy, the untold stories began with the planning of the awards to recognise our own icons and legends.:

Xhosa Music Awards categories:

• Album Of Democracy;
• Best Traditional Gospel Artists Of Democracy;
• Best Selling Album Of Democracy;
• Male Artist Of Democracy;
• Best Female Live Performer Of Democracy;
• Best Jazz Artist Of Democracy;
• Best Female Of Democracy;
• Best Male Live Performer Of Democracy; and
• Public Favourite Song Of Democracy.