The 2023 Kwacha Music Awards have come and gone, leaving a trail of electrifying performances, emotional acceptance speeches, and unforgettable moments. This year’s event was a celebration of the remarkable talent in the Zambian music industry, and it did not disappoint. From album masterpieces to chart-topping hits, the awards ceremony recognized the best and brightest stars in the business.
Let’s take a closer look at the sensational winners who took home the coveted Kwacha trophies:
Album of the Year: “Try Again” by Yo Maps
Yo Maps stole the spotlight with his exceptional album, “Try Again.” This musical journey resonated with fans and critics alike, making it the undisputed Album of the Year.
Song of the Year: “Try Again” by Yo Maps
Yo Maps had another reason to celebrate as “Try Again” clinched the Song of the Year title. This track captivated hearts across the nation and became an anthem of perseverance. The record features prominent Gospel minister – Abel Chungu Musuka.
Best Male Artist: Yo Maps
Yo Maps continued his winning streak by earning the title of Best Male Artist. His talent and dedication have firmly established him as a force to be reckoned with in the Zambian music scene.
Best Female Artist of the Year: Towela Kaira
Towela Kaira‘s remarkable talent shone brightly as she secured the Best Female Artist of the Year award. Her powerful vocals and unique style set her apart from the competition.
Best Hip Hop/Rap Song: “Ba Yubu” by Chef 187
Chef 187 brought the heat with “Ba Yubu,” claiming the Best Hip Hop/Rap Song award. His lyrical prowess continues to make waves in the industry. The single features heavyweight rap act – Jemax.
Best Collaboration: Slap D Ft Casper Nyovest and Xain for “African Queen”
Collaboration at its finest! Slap D, Casper Nyovest, and Xain‘s “African Queen” was a standout, earning them the Best Collaboration award.
Best Mainstream/Pop Award: “Try Again” by Yo Maps
“Try Again” by Yo Maps featuring Abel Chungu Musuka secured another victory, this time as the Best Mainstream/Pop Award winner. This song’s catchy hooks and infectious melodies struck a chord with listeners.
But the night didn’t belong to these winners alone. There were several other notable artists who received recognition for their outstanding contributions to the Zambian music scene:
– Best International Achievement: Sampa The Great
– Best Artist on the Copperbelt: Chile One
– Best Artist Lusaka: Dizmo
– Best Artist Northwestern Province: Cox
– Best Artist Western Province: Mumble Jumble
– Best Artist Southern Province: King Illest
– Best Artist Northern Province: Muzo AKA Alphonso
– Best Artist Muchinga Province: Happy K
– Best Artist Luapula Province: Nack Unity
– Best Artist Central Province: Brokenhill Emmy
– Best Eastern Province: Chile 84
In a touching moment, the Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed upon Emmanuel Jagary Chanda, honoring his pioneering contributions to the Zamrock Music genre.
And that’s not all! The Kwacha Music Awards also recognized excellence in various categories:
– Best Reggae/Dancehall Song Award: “Bless Me” by T-Sean
– Best RnB Fusion Song Award: “Nobody” by Chef 187
– Best Dual or Group Award: Chanda na Kay
– Best Gospel Album Award: “Pole Pole” by Pompi
– Best Gospel Song Male Award: “Shamboko” by Pompi
– Best Gospel Song Female Award: “Ukulambalala” (Remix) by Deborah Ngama
– Best Choir Award: Defence and Security Choir
– Best Indigenous Sound Award: “Calendar” by Afunika
– Most Conscious Song Award: “Try Again” by Yo MapsĀ ft. Abel Chungu Musuka
– Humanitarian Award: Macky 2
– Best Newcomer Female Award: Terry The Vocalist
– Special Recognition Award: Stanbic Bank
The celebration continued as T-Sean was crowned the winner of the Best Sound Production Award, and the title of Best Newcomer Male was claimed by Tripple M.
The 2023 Kwacha Music Awards were a testament to the thriving music scene in Zambia. These artists, with their incredible talent and passion, have left an indelible mark on the industry. We look forward to witnessing their continued success and the evolution of Zambian music in the years to come.
