Pulane Maphari has spoken out about the circumstances behind her loss of the South African Music Award for best contemporary religious music album.
A month after receiving the award, the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) revealed this week that Maphari’s victory had been revoked.
“It has come to the knowledge of the office that Maphari repackaged, rebranded, and submitted an album she released in 2020 for consideration in 2021 with the identical track listing,” RiSA said.
Maphari reported receiving an email from SAMA28 informing her of her “automatic disqualification.”
“There have been no prior conversations or meetings regarding the matter. I affirm that we are still awaiting additional information and specifics on this matter,” stated Maphari.
In response to the claims, Maphari stated, “there has been no duplication or repackaging of projects or albums.”
“In September 2020, I released a studio album titled ‘Restorative Breath of Life’ and continued to develop a live album with fresh material to promote the live recording titled ‘Sacrificial Worship,’” stated Maphari.
Meanwhile, freshly announced winner Kingdmusic, who scored the second-highest score in the category, rushed to social media to express his appreciation, while also stating that he felt “robbed of the acceptance moment.”
He wrote: “It is established. I got the prize for “Best Contemporary Faith Music Album” at the 28th South African Music Awards.
“This is a monumental achievement because I know there are children in our country who want to express their individuality through the way they package evangelical music.
“I pray and hope that this victory motivates them to continue because there is an audience waiting to hear what God has placed in their hearts.”