The Born & Bred Awards one of Zambia’s most iconic music video awards made a historic comeback after 11 long years, reigniting the fire of nostalgia and celebration across the nation’s music scene.
The 2025 edition was nothing short of a glittering reunion of talent, culture, and history, as Zambia’s top artists and video directors graced the stage to celebrate the return of a show that once defined Zambian pop culture.
Among the night’s biggest winners was Yo Maps, who took home two major awards Music Video of the Year and Best Dancehall/Afrobeat Video both for his chart-topping hit Mr & Mrs. Not to be outdone, Drimz Mr Muziq also bagged two awards, scooping Best Dunka Music Video with Akamusoli and Best Radio 4 Song of the Year for Single featuring Jemax.
This year’s edition also introduced two brand new categories Best Traditional Music Video of the Year and Best Dunka Music Video of the Year expanding the awards’ reach and relevance to Zambia’s ever-evolving soundscape.
At the center of this grand revival is Innocent “Smooth IK” Kalaluka, the man whose passion and dedication have kept the Born & Bred legacy alive.
“No one took up the mantle,” Smooth IK said. “That’s why the Born & Bred Awards are still unique and still relevant.” His words echoed the sentiment shared by many that the Born & Bred Awards aren’t just an event, but a cultural institution that celebrates Zambian creativity, resilience, and originality.
The red carpet, the performances, the cheers it all reminded fans why Born & Bred remains the heartbeat of Zambian music television.
List of Winners below
Best Upcoming Female Artist – Saliya Miyanda
Best Upcoming Male – JC Kalinks
Mampi wins life-time achievement award
Best Radio 4 Song of The Year – Drimz ft. Jemax – Single
Best Female Video – Mampi ft Bloodkid – Bad Character
Best Dancehall/Afrobest Yo Maps – Mr & Mrs
Best Traditional Chester More Power – Eondongana Nankwe
Most Conscious Music Video Super Kena – Ture Story
Best Gospel Music Video Kwanda ft Abel Chungu – The Call
Best Zed Music Music Chile One – So Chabe
Best Zed Diaspore Sampa The Great
Best Hip-Hop Music Video 76 Drums – Big Machine
Best Dunka Music Video Drimz – Akamusoli
Music Video Of the Year Yo Maps – Mr & Mrs
BASKA BASKA has just received the RECOGNITION AWARD/CHAIRMAN’S AWARD for his contribution to the creation and popularizing the DUNKA sound.
SAMPA THE GREAT receives a special recognition award at the 2024/2025 Awards for her contribution to taking Zambian music INTERNATIONAL!