The countdown to South Africa’s most glamorous music event has officially begun. Metro FM has opened entries for the highly anticipated 2025 Metro FM Music Awards (MMAs), promising another star-studded celebration of the country’s musical excellence. The announcement, made on Sunday, 1 December, has set the stage for what is expected to be a thrilling competition, with a fresh approach to the award submissions this year. In partnership with the Mpumalanga provincial government and the Motsepe Foundation, the MMAs are set to continue their tradition of celebrating the best in South African music.
This year’s awards come at a significant time for the country, marking 30 years of democracy. Metro FM’s business manager, Kina Nhlengethwa, expressed her excitement for the 2025 edition, especially following a year that saw an outpouring of vibrant and groundbreaking music. She emphasized the importance of this milestone, as it not only celebrates the achievements of South Africa’s artists but also honors the rich cultural heritage shaped by three decades of freedom. “This is happening especially after an incredible year of vibrant music released, during a time when the country is commemorating 30 years of democracy,” Nhlengethwa said.
In a move to allow more time for artists to make their mark, Metro FM has taken a slightly different approach this year. Unlike previous years, where the awards were first launched and then followed by the opening of entries, this time the station has chosen to give artists ample time to submit their work. The entries opened on Sunday, 1 December 2024, and will remain open until Sunday, 2 February 2025, ensuring that all eligible artists have the opportunity to showcase their latest albums, singles, and recordings.
To qualify for submission, artists must have released their music between 28 February 2024 and 28 February 2025. This window gives artists a full year to ensure their work is eligible for consideration. The entry guidelines and regulations, which are now available on the Metro FM website, provide detailed instructions on how to submit entries. The competition promises to be fierce, with categories including Song of the Year, Best Music Video, Best Viral Challenge, Best Female Artist, Best Male Artist, and Best New Artist, among others.
The nominees in each category will be announced at a special event scheduled for February 2025, just before the main awards ceremony. Metro FM has promised a spectacular event, as the top five nominees in each category will be revealed, building anticipation for the grand celebration. The awards ceremony itself, whose date is yet to be disclosed, is expected to be an unforgettable evening filled with dazzling performances, special tributes, and, of course, the crowning of South Africa’s finest musical talents.
As the deadline for entries approaches, the excitement continues to build. The 2025 Metro FM Music Awards are shaping up to be a momentous occasion for South African music, providing a platform for emerging artists and established stars alike to shine. With a fresh approach, extended entry period, and renewed sense of anticipation, the MMAs promise to once again be the highlight of the South African music calendar, celebrating the sounds that continue to define the nation’s rich musical landscape.
