First clap ‘n tap gospel awards coming to the East Rand

These will be the first national “clap ‘n tap” gospel music awards in the industry’s existence, meant to acknowledge the art and vocal ability found in traditional African gospel music.

The ceremony will celebrate the legacy of choirs such as Barorisi Ba Morena, Jerusalema E Ncha, Sefofane, Majalefa A Morena and many more.

Despite the genre’s success in South Africa since the 1980s, no awards ceremony has ever been held, until now.

With over 2 000 national recording choirs and over six million supporters, this industry has grown significantly since its inception, over 40 years ago.

Although related to “a capella” gospel music, which started in the US in the 1930s, the southern African “clap ‘n tap” industry never had a platform to grow internationally.

The awards will celebrate the best of this unique industry, presented on an evening filled with music.

The awards ceremony will last from noon to 9pm in the Theatre of Marcellus, but doors will open at 11am.

There will be an entrance fee.