South African DJ and producer Dlala Thukzin has been nominated for the prestigious “Best New International Act” at the 2025 BET Awards, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning international career. This nomination places him alongside fellow South African talents Maglera Doe Boy and TXC, highlighting the global impact of South Africa’s vibrant music scene.
This year’s “BET Awards” 2025 nominees reflect multifaceted creative expression and Black excellence across music, television, film, and sports. Nominations were selected by the BET Voting Academy, which is comprised of an esteemed group of entertainment professionals and influencers in the fields of music, media, digital marketing, sports journalism, public relations, and creative arts.
Dlala Thukzin, born Thokozani Zulu, has been instrumental in propelling the Gqom genre onto the world stage. His critically acclaimed album, Finally Famous Too, has garnered international attention, leading to performances across the United States, the United Kingdom, and an upcoming show in Rotterdam, Netherlands.
The BET Awards, celebrating its 25th anniversary, will be broadcast live from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Monday, 9 June 2025, at 8 PM ET/PT. This year’s nominations underscore the expanding global footprint of African music, with artists like Dlala Thukzin at the forefront.
Monde Twala, Senior Vice President & Co-General Manager at Paramount Africa and Lead at BET International, remarked, “The 2025 nominations reflect the incredible creativity, influence, and impact of African artists who are shaping culture and pushing boundaries. These talents represent the diversity and heartbeat of a new generation, and the global resonance of our sounds.”
The BET Awards is an American award show established in 2001 by the Black Entertainment Television, to celebrate black entertainers and other minorities in music, film, sports, and philanthropy. The awards, which are presented annually, are broadcast live on BET.
Dlala Thukzin’s nomination is a testament to his innovative fusion of Gqom and 3-step rhythms, resonating with audiences worldwide. As South African artists continue to gain international recognition, this nomination highlights the country’s rich musical landscape and its contribution to global music culture.
As a testament to this, South African artists, and African artists at large, are receiving some much-needed recognition for their contributions to the current population. This serves as a pivotal moment for the African continent, as in previous years and eras, our artists were often overlooked, despite producing quality products.
