Doreen Mokgolo
Legendary pop musician, Joe Nina, could not contain his tears after receiving the Lifetime Achievement award at the Samas on Sunday night.
The award recognises musicians who contributed to the development, upliftment, and advancement of the South African music industry.
Joe Nina has won the award with music giants such as Jimmy Dludlu and McCoy Mrubata.
The 48-year-old Joe from Kwa-Thema, Ekurhuleni, told Scrolla.Africa that even though he has won Samas for Best African Pop Album (2000 and 2001) and Best Alternative African Music Album (2010), this one is special.
“Not every artist in South Africa is celebrated while they are still alive,” he said.
“I will forever be grateful that South Africa gave me my roses while I was still alive so I could still smell them.”
He said he is dedicating the award to the late musician Steve Kekana, who was like a father to him.
“Bra Steve’s death affected me badly and over the years I struggled to come to terms with it but I know he is cheering for me in heaven,” he added.
The pop musician has 20 albums to his name, has produced albums for music giants like Sibongile Khumalo, Ringo Madlingozi, Ray Phiri and Tsepo Tshola.
Nina joined the music industry in 1990 under the name T McCool, and later switched to Joe Nina and his breakthrough came with the release of his second album, Ding Dong.
He is currently developing upcoming young musicians in Ekurhuleni at his art academy, Iconeast.
