The post Anele Zondo Crowned Hip Hop Artist Of The Year At Basadi In Music Awards appeared first on SA Hip Hop Mag.
Anele Zondo Crowned Hip Hop Artist Of The Year At Basadi In Music Awards. Anele Zondo woke up to a major career milestone after being crowned Hip Hop Artist of the Year at the 2026 Basadi in Music Awards.
The rapper and television personality, popularly known as NeyTheBae, celebrated the victory on social media, making it clear that the award was not hers alone.
“Woke up as Hip hop Artist of the year!!! This is not me just winning but a show of support from YOU who voted. Thank you to my Baes. Thank you @basadiinmusicawards_sa,” she wrote.
Anele Zondo’s victory came during the fifth annual Basadi in Music Awards, held from 7 to 8 August at the Joburg Theatre in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. The celebration brought together some of the country’s leading female music talents while shining a spotlight on women making their mark across different genres.
Adding to an already significant night, Zondo was also part of the hosting line-up. She shared presenting duties with Unathi Nkayi, Nomuzi Mabena and Lerato Kganyago, putting her versatility on full display as she moved between the stage and the awards categories.
Her Hip Hop Artist of the Year win also reflects the growing influence of women in South African hip hop, a space that has historically been dominated by male artists. With the category decided through public support, Anele Zondo was quick to recognise the fans whose votes helped secure the title.
For the artist, the victory comes after years of building a career that extends well beyond music. Anele first captured widespread attention through acting, including her role on the popular television drama The River, before expanding her presence as a television personality and music presenter.
She has increasingly focused on her music career in recent years, carving out an identity through confident performances, sharp lyricism and an unmistakable personal style. Her latest single, Bhampa, has further positioned her for a new chapter as she continues to establish herself in the music industry.
The Basadi in Music Awards have grown into a significant platform for celebrating women across South Africa’s diverse music landscape. The fifth edition, sponsored by SAMPRA, recognised artists from genres including amapiano, gospel, hip hop and traditional music.
Among the other notable winners were Zee Nxumalo, who took home the coveted Artist of the Year title, MaWhoo, who secured two awards including Amapiano Artist of the Year, and Nothando Hlophe, who won Song of the Year.
For Zondo, however, the Hip Hop Artist of the Year trophy carries a deeper meaning. Beyond adding another accolade to her growing résumé, the win is a reflection of the community that continues to stand behind her.
And judging by her first reaction to the victory, Zondo knows exactly who she wants to celebrate.
Her “Baes” voted, and she brought home the crown.
The post Anele Zondo Crowned Hip Hop Artist Of The Year At Basadi In Music Awards appeared first on SA Hip Hop Mag.
