South Africa's Grammy hopefuls: Sjava, Cici, Oscar Mbo and others make the voting list

Several South African artists have received international recognition with their works being considered for the upcoming Grammy Awards, marking a milestone moment for the country’s music on the global stage.

Among those honoured are Sjava, Oscar Mbo, Cici, Abavuki and Heavy K - a collective showcase of South Africa’s rich musical identity across Afro-soul, house, R&B, gospel and indigenous fusion.

Sjava, born Jabulani Hadebe, has been considered in the Best Global Music Album category for “Inkanyezi Live”. 

Renowned for blending Afro-soul, maskandi and traditional elements, Sjava has built a legacy rooted in storytelling and cultural reflection.

Since his debut “Isina Muva" in 2016, which earned him a South African Music Award (Sama) and led to his feature on the Black Panther soundtrack, he has consistently connected with audiences through projects like “Umqhele” and “Isibuko”, addressing themes of love, struggle and identity.

“Inkanyezi Live” presents Sjava in an intimate performance setting, reimagining his catalogue with live instrumentation.

The stripped-back arrangements preserve the emotional depth of his music. The title, “Inkanyezi”, meaning “star”, symbolises guidance and resilience. 

Reacting to the recognition, Sjava wrote: “I make music from the heart for the people and the culture. As a Grammy voting member, I’m very honoured to be among storytellers who inspire.”

Mbo has been considered in the Best African Music Performance category for his track “Vuka”, alongside Jazzwrld and Thukuthela.

A leading figure in afro-house and 3-Step, he has built a global following through projects such as “Defenders of House”, “For the Groovists" and “My Story”. 

“Vuka”, meaning “wake up”, delivers a message of renewal and momentum.

Responding to the news, he shared: “Thank you for this consideration @recordingacademy… Thank you to everyone who keeps on streaming the music, attending shows and getting merch, you’re appreciated.”

Cici has been considered across multiple categories, including the Best R&B Album for “Busisiwe 2.0”, the Best Gospel Performance/Song for “Amen” and the Album of the Year. 

Through “Busisiwe 2.0”, she reflects on personal growth and healing, merging soulful vocals with gospel undertones. 

“Thank you to everyone who gave their time to this masterpiece,” she said, acknowledging the collaborative efforts behind the album.

Abavuki has received consideration in the Best Global Music Album category for “The Right Key”. 

Formed in Langa, Cape Town, in 2001, Abavuki are known for their vibrant afro-fusion sound, created through marimbas, percussion and brass.

Their name, meaning “Wake up, early birds!”, echoes their energetic and optimistic approach to music.

Their sound blends African rhythms with influences of kwaito, jazz and Latin grooves, earning them acclaim on both local and international stages.

Heavy K, born Mkhululi Siqula, has been considered for the Best Global Music Album with “The Anointed”.

A prominent producer and DJ, Heavy K is celebrated for pioneering Afro-house with powerful drum arrangements and deeply emotive compositions.

Known for hits like “Wena”, “Inde” and “Drumboss”, he has played a key role in shaping the global appeal of South African dance music. 

The 68th Annual Grammy Awards is scheduled to take place on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California.

Nominees will be announced on Friday, November 7. According to the organisers, over 20 000 entries have been submitted for consideration across various categories. 

The Recording Academy’s voting members will now determine which submissions advance to official nominations.

For South Africa, these considerations represent ongoing growth in global recognition for homegrown talent.

While neither artist has yet secured a nomination, their inclusion at this stage signals the expanding reach of South African music and the evolving presence of African genres within international institutions such as the Grammys.