Johannesburg, South Africa – 31 January 2025. The vibrant city of Johannesburg came alive last night as Johnnie Walker played host to the highly anticipated Trace Awards City Tour at Okio Sandton, a star-studded celebration of Africa’s finest musical talent. Johnnie Walker – platinum sponsor of Trace Music Awards, hosted an unforgettable event with Trace, honoring the South African nominees for the Trace Awards 2025, set to take place in Zanzibar on February 26, 2025
As one of nine thrilling pre-awards events to be held across Africa, the Johannesburg leg of the tour brought together industry leaders, top artists, media, and influencers for a night of music, networking, and celebration. South African musicians who have earned nominations for the upcoming Trace Awards were recognized for their contributions to the global Afro music scene. Among the celebrated nominees were Tito M & Yuppe, Kamo Mphela, Makhadzi, Dlala Thukzin, De Mthuda, and Inkabi Zezwe, whose talent continues to inspire and uplift audiences worldwide.
Adding to the excitement Ifeoma Agu – Group Head of Culture, Influencer and Advocacy at Diageo Southern, West and Central Africa), shared her thoughts on the partnership between Johnnie Walker and Trace Music Awards: “At Johnnie Walker, we have become synonymous with being the afrocentric collaborators in accelerating culture, and a critical element of that is music. As the world embraces Afro-culturism, Johnnie Walker through this partnership reinforces its role in culture in creating new experiences for the creative economy, celebrating its commitment to championing Africa’s ever-rising talents and inspiring the new generation to push boundaries and “Keep Walking” with unmatched authenticity and creativity. Our walk with Trace Awards is only the starting point, as Johnnie Walker is set to launch an exciting new platform tagged “Johnnie Walker Afro-Exchange”. This unique platform will unite African talents across the continent to push boundaries, enabling co-creation and collaboration in an extensive showcase of creativity in music, art, fashion and entertainment – expanding Africa’s footprint on the global creative landscape.
Other celebrated guests at the event were Sjava, Tito M, and Yuppe as well as reality television characters Khosi Thwala and Thabang Mazibuko together with the DJ duo Two Bunnies. A combination of engaging conversations, signature Johnnie Walker cocktails, and live entertainment were blended together to create a memorable essence of the Trace Awards Tour. The dynamic evening was an opportunity for the music industry to foster meaningful relationships between brand teams, artists, and various stakeholders. The night was hosted by Vikk The Groove, who kept the energy high and the audience engaged throughout the night. Attendees were also treated to an electrifying DJ set by Don Design, setting the perfect atmosphere for the celebration while featuring outstanding live performances from Inkabi Zezwe, Makhadzi, Tito M, and Yuppe, who showcased their incredible talent and further amplified the excitement of the event.
The Trace Awards Tour continues its journey across Africa with Johnnie Walker, bringing the excitement of the Trace Awards to music lovers in various cities before culminating in the grand awards night in Zanzibar. Audiences are encouraged to stay tuned on Johnnie Walker’s social media channels as well as on Trace TV for more updates as we reward the bold steps taken in African Music.