Reggae artist Deevyne earns Basadi In Music Awards nomination
Atteridgeville-born reggae artist Letty Moipone Tsotetsi, professionally known as Empress Deevyne, has earned a nomination for Best Reggae Artist of the Year at the 2026 Basadi In Music Awards.
The nomination marks another milestone in the 59-year-old artist’s longstanding music career, which began in the 1980s and has since evolved into a focus on conscious reggae. Empress Deevyne said the recognition was the highest honour she had received in her musical journey.
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“This nomination at Basadi In Music Awards is so far the highest honour I have ever been given. I cannot adequately express my appreciation and gratitude,” she said.
“ This might seem like just a nomination, but for me, it is already the greatest achievement, especially because this is what the people on the ground believe I deserve, and that has really humbled me.”
Tsotetsi was introduced to the music industry in 1985 after being introduced to Priority Records in Doornfontein, Johannesburg, by her friend Dorcus Malefathio.
At the age of 19, she secured a recording deal and worked with producer Moses Dlamini, releasing her debut EP, Treat Me So Nice, during the bubblegum music era.In 1986, she collaborated with the late Richard Felani Gumbi on a four-track project titled In the Mood.
Her early recording career was interrupted when Priority Records closed amid economic difficulties.
She later returned to music and, in 2012, began a new chapter after being introduced to the reggae scene through dancehall sessions in Musina, Limpopo.
The name “Empress” emerged from her regular attendance at the sessions, while “Deevyne” was later given to her by Oupa Baloi, also known as Omen Priest, who produced her comeback single Feels So Good.
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Her music is rooted in conscious reggae, with themes centred on social awareness, unity and the well-being of society.Her influences include South African music legend Brenda Fassie, as well as international artists Whitney Houston, Dionne Warwick, Donna Summer and Diana Ross.
Following her return to music, Empress Deevyne released Feels So Good and the EP Life in 2023, before releasing the album The Rebirth in 2025.
Her current project includes songs such as Love For Free, Call Me, Thando, Love You (Right Beside You), Eyes on the Ball, Suffocating, Ka Makgetlo-kgetlo, Ke tla Hlola and You’re Worthy | Koduwa.
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She has also shared stages with artists including Phumi Maduna, Colbert Mukwevho and Carlos Djedje, while collaborating with figures in the South African reggae scene such as Luwe DaLion, Reign Africa, Sankie Fayauman, Movy D and Sammy Royal of Blackness Blue Productions.
Looking ahead, Empress Deevyne is working on another project titled The Journey, which she plans to release before the end of the year.
She describes the project as a reflection of her life and musical journey, from the streets of Black Rock in Saulsville through the challenges of building a career as an independent artist.
“Every song on the EP is an expression of my journey from the dusty streets of Black Rock in Saulsville, passing through all the trials and tribulations, trying to make a living as an independent artist,” she said.
The 2026 Basadi In Music Awards are scheduled for August 7 and 8 at the Nelson Mandela Theatre, celebrating women and their contributions to the music industry.
