Grandmaster Ready D receives prestigious 2025 UMA Icon Award

In a night that celebrated artistic excellence and cultural legacy, South African hip hop pioneer Grandmaster Ready D was bestowed with the Urban Music Awards Icon Award for 2025. The prestigious ceremony took place at the Heartfelt Arena in Pretoria on 4 May and marked a monumental occasion as the UMA celebrated its landmark 20th anniversary.

Ready D was recognised not only for his exceptional contributions to music but also for his tireless commitment to community activism and education. As one of the founding members of influential groups such as Prophets of Da City, The Beatbangaz, and Brasse Vannie Kaap, Ready D has played a significant role in shaping the South African hip hop scene. His collaboration with global music icons including Public Enemy, Fugees, and Grandmaster Flash has further cemented his legacy on an international scale.

The evening shimmered with talent, as Ready D stood alongside other South African legends such as Letta Mbulu, Boom Shaka, Zola, and ProVerb, as well as emerging artists who are defining the future of South African music. The awards showcased the diverse and rich sonic landscape of the nation, streamlining performances and camaraderie among artists.

The 2025 UMA Awards was broadcast live across 15 countries by VooVix TV Productions, reaching over 27 million viewers on various digital platforms. This event placed South Africa at the forefront of the global music stage, showcasing the remarkable talent that the country has to offer.

Ready D’s contributions extend beyond the stage; he has consistently engaged with young talent, mentoring the next generation of DJs and creatives while actively participating in various community projects. His influence is felt not only in clubs and concert halls, but also in classrooms, motorsport, and television. The 2025 UMA Icon Award serves as a fitting recognition of a life dedicated to rhythm, resistance, and uplifting voices through music.

With this accolade, Grandmaster Ready D’s status as one of South Africa’s most transformative cultural figures is firmly solidified, inspiring many and promising a bright future for the country’s music industry.