Durban Mayor Meets BET Nominee
EThekwini Municipality took to social media to celebrate one of Durban’s brightest musical talents, Dlala Thukzin. In a heartfelt moment captured in photos and shared online, Mayor Cllr. Cyril Xaba met with the rising star to extend congratulations and well-wishes as he prepares to attend the 2025 BET Awards in Los Angeles. “As good luck messages continue to pour in, we proudly stand behind Thukzin on his BET Awards nomination journey,” read the post.
Dlala Thukzin Reacts with Gratitude
Responding to the outpouring of support, Thukzin, whose real name is Thuthuka Zindlovu, said, “I’m humbled ❤️🙏🏽,” capturing the emotional weight of representing his city and country on such a prestigious platform.
BET Nomination: Best New International Act
Dlala Thukzin has been nominated for Best New International Act at the 2025 BET Awards. He joins a highly competitive international category featuring artists from across the globe:
- Abigail Chams (Tanzania)
- Ajuliacosta (Brazil)
- Amabbi (Brazil)
- Dr Yaro (France)
- KWN (United Kingdom)
- Maglera Doe Boy (South Africa)
- Merveille (France)
- Odeal (United Kingdom)
- Shallipopi (Nigeria)
- TxC (South Africa)
Musical Journey from Lamontville to the World
Born in 1997 in Lamontville, Durban, Thukzin is a versatile DJ and producer blending afrotech, gqom, and amapiano. His early passion for music was sparked by assisting his DJ uncle with sound equipment. His big break came as a producer on Babes Wodumo’s 2016 hit album Gqom Queen, Vol. 1, a pivotal release in the rise of the gqom genre.
His 2021 amapiano-infused single Phuze brought him further acclaim, paving the way for a unique fusion sound. His discography includes fan-favourite projects like Permanent Music (2020), Finally Famous (2022), and Permanent Music 3 (2023), which featured the 2x Platinum hit iPlan.
A Catalog of Local Anthems
Some of his most beloved songs include:
- iPlan (feat. Zaba & Sykes)
- Phuze (feat. Zaba)
- Muthi (feat. Zeh McGeba & Masuda)
- Sohlala Sisonke (feat. Zeh McGeba & MK Productions)
What to Expect at the 2025 BET Awards
The 25th BET Awards, themed as “Culture’s Biggest Night,” will air live on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 8 PM ET/PT from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Hosted by Kevin Hart, the show promises high-energy performances from Lil Wayne, Teyana Taylor, GloRilla, Playboi Carti, and Leon Thomas.
Star-Studded Honors and Tributes
This year’s awards will also honour Mariah Carey, Jamie Foxx, Kirk Franklin, and Snoop Dogg with Ultimate Icon Awards. A 25th-anniversary tribute to 106 & Park will feature appearances from former hosts and nostalgic performances by Bow Wow, B2K, Mya, and others.
Fans Can Tune In
The event will broadcast live on BET. Leading up to the show, fans can also enjoy the BET Experience 2025 (BETX) from June 7–8 in Los Angeles, offering immersive fan activations.
As Dlala Thukzin steps onto an international platform, Durban and the entire South African music community stand proudly behind him, celebrating a homegrown talent making global waves.
