DJ Lag’s acclaimed album Southside has been nominated for Best Gqom Album at the South African Music Awards (SAMAs), adding another milestone to a project that continues to shape the genre’s evolution.
Released in 2025, Southside showcased DJ Lag’s signature sound while expanding the possibilities of Gqom through collaborations with some of South Africa’s leading artists. The album features appearances from DJ Maphorisa, Zikomo, and several other collaborators who helped shape one of Lag’s most ambitious projects to date.
Among the standout tracks is Wawawa featuring Thobeka and KC Driller, which quickly became a Durban street anthem. Another highlight, Ngyasindelwa featuring Zee Nxumalo, has also earned a nomination for Best Kwaito/Gqom Song at the Metro FM Music Awards.
The latest SAMA nomination adds to DJ Lag’s long-standing relationship with South Africa’s premier music awards. He won Best Gqom Album for Meeting With The King and received another nomination in the same category for The Rebellion in 2025.
The recognition comes during a landmark year for the Durban-born producer, who is currently taking Gqom to audiences across North America and Europe on his ongoing world tour. Together, the nomination and international performances reinforce DJ Lag’s position as one of the genre’s most influential pioneers.
The winners of the South African Music Awards will be announced later this year.
