Celebs step out in style for Africa Music Awards

THE Fifth edition of MTV Africa Music Awards saw stars of the African and international music industry came out in force on Saturday night at Durban's ICC.

Saluting and championing African music, youth culture and achievement, MAMA 2015 brought the continent together for a massive celebration contemporary music and creativity, including electrifying performances, collaborations and awards presentations.

The big winners on the night included Nigerian stars Yemi Alade and Davido, who took home the Best Male and Best Female awards, respectively, while hip hop star Cassper Nyovest nabbed the Best Hip Hop award. “Koko master”, D’Banj, won the MAMA Evolution award, a new category honouring established artists who have made an indelible mark on African and global music culture, taken African music to new territories around the world, pushed the boundaries of creativity, and shaped the soundscape of contemporary Africa.

South African comedian and newly appointed Daily Show host, Trevor Noah, triumphed in Personality of the Year. Patoranking won Best New Act Transformed by Absolut, given in recognition of new and emerging artists. Saran Kaba Jones and S’Bu Mavundla shared equal honours for the MTV Base Leadership award.

Stunning collaborations between artists of different genres saw NE-YO take to the stage with Seyi Shay, 2Face collaborating with Bucie, Sauti Sol pairing up with Yemi Alade and Patoranking swapping beats with K.O. The show ended on a high with a jubilant medley mash-up by Artist of the Decade winners P-Square, featuring hit tracks Personally, Chop My Money, Alingo and Shekini.

Emmy award nominated actor, Anthony Anderson captivated the 5,000-strong MAMA audience with his lively humour, engaging charisma and unexpected outfit changes.

Commenting after the show, Alex Okosi, senior vice president and managing director, Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) Africa, said, “Africa is a continent of the now and the future; tonight was testament to that. MAMA 2015 represented and reflected the abundant amount of creativity and passion this continent breeds.”