18th Crown Gospel Awards Reveal 125 Nominees Across 25 Categories

The 18th Crown Gospel Awards unveiled their nominees at a glamorous all-white-themed event on Friday, 31 October, at The Stamford in Greyville, Durban. The awards ceremony is set for Sunday, 23 November 2025, at the Durban ICC Convention Centre. Organisers received a record-breaking 882 entries this year, selecting 125 nominees across 25 categories. The list includes gospel legends such as Andile Ka Majola, Jabu Hlongwane, Kholeka, and Pastor Rudolf Mabasa.

Female gospel artists dominated the nominations, demonstrating their continued influence in the ministry space. From emerging artists to established performers, women are represented across nearly all categories. The highly competitive Song of the Year category features nominees Kgaogelo Kekana, Jabu Hlongwane, Sihle Khumalo, Nontokozo Mkhize, Mmatema, and Sindi Ntombela.

Rofhiwa Nethengwe, Head of Talent and Crown Awards executive, emphasized the diversity of this year’s nominees. “They come from all nine provinces, and this shows that these are national Awards, and this is seen with different artists representing their provinces,” Nethengwe said. The awards return to Durban after a brief stint in Johannesburg, marking a homecoming that honours the legacy of late co-founder Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, who passed away in August 2024.

“This year marks a significant moment. The Crowns return to Durban without founder and visionary Zanele Mbokazi Nkambule. The return to Durban is a dedicated tribute to her legacy,” Nethengwe added.

Notable nominees include:

Best Gospel Producer Album: Siyanqoba Mthethwa (Inevitable Jazz edition, Gauteng), Lwazi (Umphetho-Sibonga umusa, KZN), The Jesus Collective (Brandon “Bobby” George & Asaph A Ward, Gauteng), Ntethe (Back to the Altar, Eastern Cape)

Best Male Gospel Artist: Malusi Mbokazi (Udondolo, KZN), Sibusiso Nzima (Sithembe Wena, Gauteng), Mnqobi Nxumalo (All Powerful – The Pursuit II, Gauteng), Sbu Noah (Sidumisa Wena, Gauteng)

Best Female Gospel Artist: Kgaogelo Kekana (Dikgoro, Limpopo), Siyanda Tshangana (Ulihlathi lethu, Mabakudumise Abantu, Eastern Cape), Puleng March (Worship in Newness, Gauteng), Mmatema (Oa Ntwanela, Gauteng)

Best Song of the Year (Voted For): Kgaogelo Kekana (Dikgoro, Limpopo), Jabu Hlongwane (Sihlezi Kahle, Gauteng), Sihle Khumalo (Okudalwe Mina, KZN), Nontokozo Mkhize (Esandleni, Eastern Cape), Mmatema (Oa Ntwanela, Gauteng), Sindi Ntombela (Ulithemba Lethu, KZN)

Other categories include Best Accapella, Best Gospel Album, Best iTende, Classic of All Times, Best Collaboration Gospel Song, Best Rap Gospel, Best Praise Song, Best Contemporary Song, Best Clap and Tap, Best Gospel Live Event/Recording, Best Worship Song, Best Newcomer, Best Gospel Group, Best Traditional Gospel, Best Ama-Zion, Best Gospel Music Video, Best Songwriter, Best of Africa, Best Artist or Group of the Year, Best Jazz Album, and Best Community Radio Show/Presenter.

This year’s Crown Gospel Awards reflect the growth and diversity of South African gospel music, highlighting artists from every province and celebrating both emerging talents and established icons. The return to Durban underscores a commitment to the awards’ origins while honouring the late Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule’s legacy. The ceremony promises an evening of celebration, inspiration, and recognition for the country’s most impactful gospel artists.