The 2026 Metro FM Music Awards reached a fever pitch last night at the Durban ICC as the biggest announcement of the evening was made, upcoming Maskandi sensation uMafikizolo walked away with the night's most prestigious honour, claiming the Song of the Year title for his massive hit, “Uyoncengwa Unyoko.”
This win marks a seismic shift in the industry, as a traditional Maskandi artist beat out heavyweights from the Amapiano and Afro-pop genres to claim the top prize, proving that heritage sounds are dominating the mainstream once again.
A cultural phenomenon and national anthem
“Uyoncengwa Unyoko” has become more than just a song; it is a cultural phenomenon. The track's relatable storytelling and infectious rhythm resonated with millions, turning it into an anthem that captured the spirit of the nation.
While the competition for Song of the Year included massive chart-toppers, the public's vote solidified uMafikizolo as the people's champion. This victory follows his recent triumph at the start of the year where he also secured the Ukhozi FM Song of the Year, making him one of the few artists to achieve this “double crown” in a single season.
The rapid rise of a Mnambithi icon
The rise of this new icon from Mnambithi to the MMA stage is a testament to the power of authenticity. As an upcoming artist, his achievements over the last year have been record-breaking.
His lead single has surpassed a staggering 80 million streams on Spotify, a milestone rarely reached by traditional music genres. He has also become a crossover powerhouse, successfully dismantling the barriers between traditional and modern music through high-profile collaborations and a massive social media presence.
Running his own label, he has positioned himself not just as a performer, but as a businessman shaping the future of his craft.
A new era for traditional music
Last night was a celebration of a new era where artists like Ciza, Kharishma, and Shandesh shared the winners' circle, but it was uMafikizolo who truly stole the show. For the king of Mnambithi, this win is a victory for his fans and for the preservation of Zulu culture.
As he accepted the award, the energy in the ICC confirmed that his mission to be a “voice for the voiceless” is resonating louder than ever. By winning Song of the Year, uMafikizolo has opened doors for a whole new generation of traditional artists to be recognised on South Africa's largest commercial platforms.