Kelly Khumalo asks SAMAs to remove her from nomination category

In the early 2000s, Kelly Khumalo shot to fame with her hit debut award-winning album, 'T.K.O'.

Throughout the years, the extremely talented Khumalo became the Voice Of Africa and won several awards. 

READ: Kelly Khumalo, Kurt Darren join Rian van Heerden ahead of new singing competition

In 2020, Khumalo made headlines across the country for her hit single, 'Empini', which went gold.

She reached another milestone when Khumalo's hit reality show, 'Living With Kelly Khumalo', debuted on the streaming platform, Showmax. Her new album, 'The Voice Of Africa', delves into themes of love and the richness of African history.

READ: Kelly Khumalo announces season two of reality show

On Wednesday, 19 May, Khumalo shocked South Africans after she asked the South African Music Awards to remove her from the 'Best Afro Pop Album' nomination category.

On Twitter, Khumalo stated that they must "respect" her hard work and effort. 

READ: Musik Quiz with Kelly and Kurt

"I humbly ask that you remove my work out of whatever category you might have nominated me for. As much as I respect what you do, I also ask that you respect my hard work and effort."

Though Khumalo didn’t give a clear reason as to why she wanted to repeal the nomination, the star responded to a fan saying the SAMAs "insulted" her hard work.

Tune in to the 'Scenic Drive with Rian', weekdays from 16:00-19:00. Stream the show live here or download our mobile app here.

Image Credit: Jacaranda FM/ Wesley Rhode