HHP was the host of the Samas.
The South African Music Awards were a mish mash of below par production, less than world class presenting and awkward moments which left viewers more bored than impressed.
The Samas usually highlight the year's top music performers and are a celebration of the country's quality music. In addition, the ceremony itself is expected to be the sweet cherry on top as it culminates in a big party filled with red carpet glamour, star acts from the country's best and endearing moments from the music industry's elite.
But what occurred on Sunday night was a shockingly embarrassing display of poor production quality, amateur presenting and off the mark moments. What went wrong? Let's detail what exactly made the Samas a bad showcase of the country's talent.
1. HHP is a brilliant musician. The award winning rapper is no doubt a juggernaut on the music stage and is revered for his great music and quirky dancing. Yet, the Mafikeng born rapper was out of his depth while hosting the music awards show. His execution of the script was awkward at times and left viewers with scowls rather than smiles. While HHP was certainly confident on stage, this did not translate. We suggest the Samas stick to comedians, actors and presenters who are more than capable of hosting a ceremony of that magnitude.
2. Several times, when winners hiked up to the stage to pick up their prizes, the music that played was clearly from a cd and the audience could hear scratches. These are the type of things that should be picked up during rehearsals and not during a live broadcast.
3. At the end of the ceremony, no closing performance took place. Instead, two djs played out with the record of the year. Not only was this surprisingly disappointing but the point of guests hearing a slightly mixed Caracara made no sense.
4. Guests who took to the stage to receive their prizes were not given clear direction on the timing. Mdu Masilela who received the life time achievement award stood next to the stage while HHP continued to read off the auto cue about the kwaito singer's accomplishments. Mdu graciously waited for HHP to finish then went on stage. The cameras captured him waiting excitedly but awkwardly at the side of the platform.
5. The sound was terrible, and disconnected during several performances. The most audible and visible example of this was when Prime Circle performed. It seemed as if the lead singer, Ross Learmouth was lip syncing. This could have been avoided with exceptional sound quality.
6. The atmosphere lacked enthusiasm and vibrancy. This could be blamed on the lack of marketing done by the Samas leading up to the awards. The Samas maintained a good social media presence but that does not rival a visual marketing campaign which effectively encompasses all media platforms.
7. It has become clear the Samas are working on a strict budget. With Amstel and Kia as the main sponsors, the awards have fallen to a lower standard compared to previous years. With new chairman Refiloe Ramogase at the helm, it was hoped he would refresh the show and bring a fascinating and unique feel. But with a tight budget, it is clear that this is becoming almost impossible to achieve.
8. Co-presenter Lerato Kganyago seemed a bit overwhelmed. She stuttered and fluffed up her lines. She may need to work on gaining experience in live TV before giving a bash at major gigs such as the Samas.
9. Organisers need to exercise stricter control over the audience situated below the stage. They distracted presenters, shouting at them - even when they were not promoted to. Had the audience been briefed or at least shown signs of when to calm down - especially when live the raucus they caused could have been avoided.
10. It was not all bad though, Cassper Nyovest's performance was a highlight, and so was Jeremy Loops who showed off his musical skills. K.O picked up multiple much-deserved awards. Beatenberg cleaned up winning a slew of gongs, the trio have cemented their status as the country's best group.
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