HARARE-BORN reggae/hip-hop musician Don Dada says he was humbled by the recent honour conferred on him at the 11th annual South African Up and Coming Musicians Awards (SAUMA) at the Gibson Kente Theatre in Soweto.
The Sauma Awards were conceptualized 11 years ago with the aim of recognising artists for their exemplary work early in their careers.
“I was invited as a VIP guest and hadn’t been notified of the honorary award. It came as a surprise that left me rooted to the spot for a few seconds before recovering and going up to accept the special award. I’m humbled to receive the recognition within the musical fraternity,” said Don Dada, real name Menelik Nesta Gibbons.
The Johannesburg-based artist said he has put a lot of effort into assisting up-and-coming artists. “I’m truly humbled and feel honoured to be the recipient of this special award. This honorary award is a form of recognition and validation of my efforts. I feel motivated and recharged,” he said.
Don Dada, whose VIVA Mandela made history in 2017 when it became the first Zimbabwe-born artist to attain multi-platinum, said that he’s elated, and the honour took a while to sink in his mind and he is grateful.
“No matter how difficult the journey has been in the industry, it recognises the trail that I’ve carved out not only for myself but for all those who walk in the same path behind me,” he said.
He said that it’s the first honorary award he has received in his music career. “I want to thank SAUMA for the role they play in artist development by providing that bridge for the foundation stages of an artist’s career. I’m thankful to my family, friends, and fans for their continued support,” he said.
He said he’s now promoting his new album, called The Heart & The Mind, released in August 2024. Don Dada said that the double disc album is meant to push the boundaries and test the preconceived notions of reggae while also exploring the realm of hip-hop and fusing together the African languages of Southern Africa.
“My vision of a United Africa is evident in my music as I endeavour to encourage the youth at home and abroad to step into their destiny without fear and continue shining the light of the continent through education and unity,” said Don Dada. He will be performing around Mzansi during the festive season. —Daily Sun