Vocalist and songwriter Will Linley received two nominations at the 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMA32) ceremony for his debut album, 'Don’t Cry Because It’s Over.'
The album 'Don’t Cry Because It’s Over' officially entered the discussion for the South African Music Awards, as the singer-songwriter was nominated in two categories. His debut album was recognized in the 'Best Pop Album' category, and Linley himself received a nomination for 'Male Artist of the Year.'
These nominations come at a fitting time for the Cape Town singer, who is having a significant year. Among his achievements is the song 'Holding The Line' featured in the soundtrack of the popular romantic drama 'Off Campus.'
Since appearing on stage, Linley has gained a dedicated audience through his honest approach to songwriting and ability to create relatable stories. The album 'Don’t Cry Because It’s Over' demonstrates his growth as an artist while retaining the youthful energy that initially attracted listeners. What started as young artist narratives about love and growing up has now materialized in the debut album, which has received recognition on one of South Africa's largest music platforms.
The countdown to the 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMA32) has begun, as the South African Recording Industry (RiSA) presented nominees for two categories open to public participation.
The nominations were announced ahead of the SAMA32 Homecoming Edition ceremony, which will take place at Sun City Superbowl in the North West on August 15, 2026. Earlier on Tuesday, five top nominees for 2026 were announced, including gospel artists Hle and Amadodana Ase Wesile, who each received three nominations.
This year's theme is 'The Future Sounds Like Now.' The ceremony aims to recognize artists who are transforming South African music and bringing local sounds onto the global stage. The 'Video Clip of the Year' category recognizes creative teams and artists for outstanding visual works, while 'Record of the Year' is one of the few SAMA categories decided solely by public vote.
Voting for 'Record of the Year' is currently open; fans can support their favorite performers by sending the nominee code via SMS to 32253. Please note that sending an SMS incurs a fee and is subject to applicable terms and conditions.
A SAMA representative, Unathi Gwida, stated that these nominations mark the beginning of the journey toward the country's biggest music event. She emphasized that the event, held at the iconic Sun City Resort, is part of a broader partnership aimed at promoting the North West as a cultural and tourist destination. The event is supported by organizations such as the Motsepe Foundation, the Department of Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation of the North West, the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Nature Conservation and Tourism of the North West, SA Tourism, SABC, SAMPRA, SAMRO, CAPASSO, and RiSA.
According to Gwida, the SAMA32 Homecoming Edition demonstrates the potential of music in promoting destinations, attracting visitors, and ensuring inclusive economic growth, serving as a flagship cultural event for South Africa. Tickets for SAMA32 are available through TicketPro.
Filmmakers wishing to participate in the Simon Mabhunu Sabela Film and Television Awards 2026 are approaching the submission deadline of July 10th. Organizers note significant interest in the competition.
The KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTAFA) reported that applications received from across the province of KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa indicate that the upcoming year promises to be one of the most competitive since the awards' inception. Currently, about 34 categories are open for participation, covering the entire film and television industry.
Organizers confirmed receipt of entries in all categories, noting particularly active participation in television productions, short films, documentaries, and student projects. Eight new nominations were added this year to recognize the growing technical and creative competence in the industry. These include: Best Production Design, Best Sound Design, Best Makeup, Best Costume, Best Director (TV), Best Telenovela/Soap, Best Film Made for TV, and Best Drama Series.
The interim executive director of KZN Tourism and Film Authority, Sibusiso Gumbe, stated that the expansion of categories reflects the evolution of the South African film and television sector. He expressed satisfaction with the quality and diversity of the submissions, noting strong participation in both established and new technical and television categories, as well as growing interest from emerging filmmakers and students.
Gumbe emphasized that expanding the awards program is necessary so that recognition matches the increasingly specialized nature of film and television production. He noted that modern projects rely on highly skilled professionals, including designers, sound engineers, editors, cinematographers, costume specialists, makeup artists, writers, and producers.
The Authority also highlighted the increased involvement of emerging creators and first-time applicants, as well as the growing diversity of storytelling and documentary films based on authentic African stories with global resonance. In addition to honoring achievements, Gumbe stated that the awards contribute to industry growth by stimulating investment, skill development, and transformation, while strengthening KwaZulu-Natal's position as a leading destination for film and television.
After the application deadline closes, an independent panel consisting of producers, directors, academics, writers, broadcasters, and technical specialists will evaluate the works. Organizers required judges to declare any conflicts of interest to ensure the transparency of the judging process.
Previously awarded filmmaker Ayanda Halimana, whose work Sent received numerous accolades at the 2025 ceremony, described the Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards as a genuine platform for showcasing local talent and stories. Director Lutando Mngomezulu, whose film Themba was recognized at last year's awards, urged creatives not to let doubts prevent their participation, as it provides valuable visibility and career opportunities.
Actress Nombulelo Mkhlongo, nominated for Best Actress (TV) in 2025, stated that recognition through the awards is an important source of support. 2025 winner Nkobile Magwaza noted that even a nomination can be a significant milestone in a creative career.
The winners of the Simon Mabhunu Sabela Film and Television Awards 2026 will be announced at the Durban ceremony on October 10th following the completion of the independent evaluation process.
