In the realm of musical excellence, South Africa stands as a beacon of talent and cultural richness, resonating worldwide. The National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS), responsible for the prestigious Grammy Awards, consistently recognizes the exceptional contributions of South African musicians to the global music landscape. This article explores the accomplished individuals who have claimed this esteemed accolade, shedding light on both those rooted in the motherland and the unsung heroes who have flourished on international stages.
South Africa’s musical heritage, diverse and vibrant, boasts artists from various genres who have made their mark on the global stage. The Grammy Awards, a symbol of musical excellence, have acknowledged the outstanding achievements of several South African musicians.
In the following sections, we delve into the journeys of these musical trailblazers, celebrating their accomplishments and the indelible mark they have left on the international music scene. Join us as we honor the South African Grammy Award winners and nominees, showcasing the country’s undeniable impact on the world of music.
- Miriam Makeba (1 Grammy win): Fondly known as Mama Afrika, Miriam Makeba left an indelible mark on the world stage by spotlighting the injustices of the Apartheid regime. Her Grammy history, spanning from 1961 to 2000, reflects the range of her musical prowess, earning her one Grammy for Best Folk Recording in 1965.
- Ladysmith Black Mambazo (5 Grammy wins): For 59 years, Ladysmith Black Mambazo has been a national treasure in South Africa, earning 17 Grammy nominations and securing five coveted statuettes. Their global prominence soared in 1986 with Paul Simon’s “Graceland,” and they continued to excel across diverse categories, including Best World Music Album.
- Soweto Gospel Choir (3 Grammy wins): Founded in 2000, the Soweto Gospel Choir has become a symbol of South African musical excellence. Their meteoric rise includes six Grammy nominations and three victories, spanning categories like Best Traditional World Music Album and Best Classical Crossover Album.
- Lebo M (Morake) (1 Grammy win): Lebo M, a revered South African producer, composer, and musician, clinched a Grammy in 1994 for Best Instrumental Arrangement With Accompanying Vocals for “Circle of Life” from The Lion King.
- Trevor Rabin (1 Grammy win): Renowned for his multifaceted career, Trevor Rabin’s Grammy triumphs include a win in 1984 for Best Rock Instrumental Performance. Nominations across diverse categories showcase his musical talent in vocals, arrangements, and visual experiences.
- Phil Ramone (14 Grammy wins): A maestro in music production, Phil Ramone’s 39 Grammy nominations and 17 wins spanned categories like Best Engineered Recording, Non-Classical, Album of the Year, and Best Surround Sound Album, highlighting his enduring impact on the industry.
- Dave Matthews (2 Grammy wins): Born in Johannesburg, Dave Matthews’ Grammy journey, with two wins out of 16 nominations, reflects his global impact. Victories include Best Rock Vocal Performance and Best Male Rock Vocal Performance.
- Wouter Kellerman (2), Zakes Bantwini (1), and Nomcebo Zikode (1): Wouter Kellerman’s Grammy journey, with three nominations and one win, showcases his versatility. Notable achievements include the chart-topping success of “Winds of Samsara” (2014). His recent win in 2023 for Best Global Music Performance with Zakes Bantwini and Nomcebo Zikode adds to his accolades.
- Eddie Kramer: Born in Cape Town, Eddie Kramer’s unmatched engineering skills contributed to Grammy-winning albums and songs, including works with Jimi Hendrix, Santana, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones.
- Black Coffee (1 Grammy win): Acclaimed in the dance scene, Black Coffee’s historic win at the 64th Grammy Awards in 2022 for Best Dance/Electronic Album with “Subconsciously” marks a milestone for South Africa.
- Tyla (1 Grammy win): Tyla, the first artist to win the Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance, made history at the 66th Grammy Awards in 2024, showcasing South Africa’s continued influence on the global music stage.
