TikTok has announced its first-ever TikTok Viral Song of the Year category at the 28th South African Music Awards (SAMA28).
The short video sharing platform said the category was designed to recognize and honor local songs and artists who dominated the platform in South Africa last year.
TikTok said this imminent partnership is not a surprise as the platform’s role in the music industry has been evident in glorifying songs or bringing modern virality to old songs over the years.
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A number of last year’s most popular songs debuted on the entertainment platform before topping music charts worldwide, earning the platform a well-deserved place in the music industry.
Yuvir Pillay, head of TikTok’s music operations for SSA, said music is a special part of TikTok’s creative DNA.
“We’ve seen that songs that go viral on the platform usually do well on streaming services as well. It plays an important role in the recognition of songs and artists, and also affects other areas such as nominations, chart positions and sales.”
“We are honored to join forces with an event like Samas, which boasts the best local musical talent and promotes the growth of the music industry,” Pillay said.
TikTok also said that while the platform is a never-ending hub for viral tracks, they are highlighting songs nominated in this new category:
- 9umba & TOSS & Mdoovar – uMlando
- Daliwonga – Abo Mvelo (feat. Mellow & Sleazy & MJ)
- Thozi – Sisonke (feat. Khanyisa, Sphokuhle & Pd Jokes)
- Ch’cco & Mellow & Sleazy – Nkao Tempela
- Major League Djz & Nvcho & Mathandos – Bakwa Lah
- Nomfundo Moh – Phakade Lami
- Dj Maphorisa & Tyler ICU – Banyana
- Young Stunna – Adiwele (feat. Kabza De Small & Dj Maphorisa)
- Costa Titch – Big Flexa
The TikTok Viral Song of the Year nominations can be voted on exclusively on TikTok from Thursday, August 11th at noon until August 24th. The winner will be announced at the Samas live event on August 28, 2022 in Sun City, NW.
It’s easy to vote:
- Download the TikTok app from the app store
- Sign in/create a TikTok account.
- Select the search icon in the upper right corner and click the SAMA28 banner.
- Choose your favorite song.
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