Gigi Lamayne claims Hip‑Hop Artist of the Year at the 2025 Basadi in Music Awards. Sizwe Alakine (Reason) celebrates her win with a heartfelt tribute.
When Gigi Lamayne was crowned Hip‑Hop Artist of the Year at the prestigious 2025 Basadi in Music Awards, it marked a turning point in her career—and a cultural moment in South African music. Accompanied by her partner, Sizwe Alakine (known professionally as Reason), the duo graced the red carpet, captivated fans, and sparked a heartfelt exchange on social media that resonated across the country. This was more than a win—it was a display of love, artistic recognition, and shared pride.
About Basadi in Music Awards 2025
Held on 1–2 August 2025 at the Joburg Theatre in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, the fourth annual awards shine a light on women’s contributions in the South African music industry—including performers, producers, stylists, and media creatives (Wikipedia).
Nominees were unveiled on 19 June, with Zee Nxumalo leading with four nominations (Wikipedia). Hosted by Lerato Kganyago and Lamiez Holworthy, the ceremony embraced the theme “The Symphony of Harmony”, encouraging unity through creative expression and nature-inspired concepts (News24).
Vanguard Awards: Honouring Pillars Behind the Scenes
1 August, the opening Vanguard Awards honoured women working off-stage:
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Tholsi Pillay was awarded Artist Manager of the Year for managing GRAMMY-winning talent Wouter Kellerman, among others (Good Things Guy).
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Bongi Mlotswa, honored as Trailblazer of the Year, received her award in a moving presentation by her daughter, actress Enhle Mbali (Time Out Worldwide).
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Other winners included Nomsa Madida (Make‑Up Artist), TumeloMj’s Afroboutique (Hairstylist), Lootlove (Ent. Radio Presenter), Laconco (Podcast Presenter), Noni Khumalo (TV Producer), Mapule Pule (Journalist), Tlhogi Molefe (Choreographer) (Wikipedia).
Main Awards: Celebrating Artistic Excellence
On 2 August, star-studded performances and awards highlighted leading women in music:
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Gigi Lamayne – Hip‑Hop Artist of the Year
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Babalwa M – Amapiano Artist of the Year
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Lamiez Holworthy – DJ of the Year
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Zee Nxumalo – Sofnfree Artist of the Year
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Nontokozo Mkhize – Song of the Year
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Other winners included Naledi Aphiwe, Liema Pantsi, Moozlie, Salphina Kadiaka, Nonny Muji, Moozlie, among others (News24, Time Out Worldwide).
The Moment: Gigi & Reason on the Red Carpet
Gigi Lamayne and Sizwe “Reason” Alakine drew major attention on the red carpet with coordinated outfits and radiant energy (News24). Their chemistry and style coverage dominated fashion highlights from the event.
Social Media & Public Reaction
Days later, MDN NEWS confirmed the couple attended together over the weekend and fans flooded social media with support (X (formerly Twitter)).
Reason posted on social media:
“CONGRATULATIONS BESTIE!!! I HOPE YOU CAN SMELL THE FLOWERS!!! I’M PROUD OF YOU!!!”
To which Gigi replied:
“You’re holding it together my King ❤️ Thank you for fixing my crown every single day... You are a promise He fulfilled for me! ILY Bestie.” (SA Hip Hop Mag)
The exchange went viral, with fans and artists praising the couple as elevated “relationship goals” and celebrating the love and mutual respect they share (SA Hip Hop Mag).
Gigi Lamayne’s Journey
Born Genesis Gabriella Tina Manney, Gigi burst onto the South African hip‑hop scene in the early 2010s. She won Best Female at the South African Hip Hop Awards in 2013 and 2014, launching a career known for lyricism and fierce artistry (Wikipedia).
Her discography includes albums like Colour of Reign (2014), i‑Genesis (2016), Mermaids and Stuff (2021), and Set in Stone (2022). Collaborations with King Monada, Busiswa, Makhadzi, and even her partner Reason (e.g. “Ayi 4” in 2023) showcase her versatility across genres (Wikipedia).
Why the Award Matters
For Female Rappers
South African hip‑hop remains male-dominated. Gigi’s win underlines a shift in representation and inspires emerging female MCs to claim their space without compromise.
For Industry Inclusion
Basadi Awards build momentum for inclusion in music—shining a spotlight on women in both visible and behind-the-scenes roles that shape the creative landscape in SA.
For Relationship Representation
Gigi and Reason’s public celebration is more than romance—it models empowerment, support, and emotional intelligence in the public eye. Their interaction highlights healthy dynamics in celebrity relationships.
Expert Insight & Impact on the Industry
Industry observers stress that accolades from Basadi can boost an artist’s streaming figures, media bookings, and popularity. Comparable events like Ghana’s 3Music Women’s Awards have driven exposure for rising female acts—South African artists are expected to feel similar benefits in coming months.
Stats & Historical Context
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Basadi in Music Awards launched in 2022 with support from SAMPRA and SABC 2, evolving rapidly into a milestone event for women in creative media.
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Zee Nxumalo led 2025 nominations with four nods despite others like Gigi winning key categories (Wikipedia, Good Things Guy).
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Legendary gospel singer Dr Rebecca Malope received the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2025 in a moving tribute, underlining the event’s growing prestige (Wikipedia).
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Other standout winners across genres included Naledi Aphiwe (Afro-Pop Artist, Most Streamed Song), Salphina Kadiaka (Jazz), MmaAusi (Traditional), Nontokozo Mkhize (Gospel, Song of the Year), Jamie Lee Sexton (Pop) (Time Out Worldwide).
South African Relevance
Timing the ceremony at the start of Women’s Month (August) reinforces its purpose: celebrating female achievement and supporting gender equity during a period of national reflection.
In a country grappling with gender-based inequality and violence, Basadi Awards provide visibility and momentum to women’s empowerment and creativity across sectors.
Additional Human Interest Moment: Birthday Surprise
In the same period, Gigi surprised Reason with an intimate birthday celebration on 30 June, sharing a behind‑the‑scenes video of massages, cupcakes, and sweet tributes. The post went viral, building on their shared public image of love and partnership that fans adore (Briefly).
Conclusion
The 2025 Basadi in Music Awards was more than a ceremony—it was a celebration of resilience, artistry, and feminine power. Gigi Lamayne’s win as Hip‑Hop Artist of the Year marked a milestone in her career and the genre’s evolution in South Africa. Her heartfelt moment with Sizwe “Reason” Alakine added a layer of authenticity and emotional resonance that captured national attention.
As the country continues to celebrate female creatives and foster equity in entertainment, moments like these matter. They inspire, uplift, and pave the way for future generations of artists to pursue their craft boldly.
What do you make of Gigi’s award and the affectionate exchange with Reason? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
(Also see: Related article on Basadi in Music Awards highlights)
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