Few artists have shaped the global house music landscape with the enduring influence of Monique Bingham. As the Basadi in Music Awards (BIMA) celebrates its fifth anniversary under the theme REWIND, BIMA proudly announces internationally acclaimed singer, songwriter and house music icon Monique Bingham as the recipient of the 2026 International Recognition Award.
For nearly three decades, Bingham has captivated audiences through her unmistakable vocals, soulful songwriting and timeless artistry. Her collaborations with internationally renowned producers and South African trailblazers including Black Coffee, Mobi Dixon and DJ Christos have cemented her place as one of the defining voices of house music.
For South African audiences, Monique Bingham is more than an international artist. Her music forms part of the soundtrack of a generation, evoking unforgettable dance floors, lifelong friendships, and a shared love for soulful house music.
The International Recognition Award celebrates exceptional women whose artistry, influence and contribution have left a lasting impact on the global music industry while inspiring generations through excellence, authenticity, and innovation. For Bingham, the recognition represents more than a career milestone. It celebrates a decades-long relationship with South African audiences whose unwavering support has made the country one of the most meaningful chapters of her international career.
Monique Bingham said: “Receiving the 2026 International Recognition Award from Basadi in Music Awards is an honour I will cherish for the rest of my life. I am deeply humbled and incredibly grateful. South Africa has held a special place in my heart for many years. The love, passion and appreciation that audiences here have for house music is unlike anywhere else in the world. Every performance reminds me that music is culture, community and connection.
”She added that, “To receive this honour from an organisation that celebrates women in music is profoundly meaningful. As an independent artist, recognition like this is never taken for granted. My journey has never been powered by a major machine, but by extraordinary supporters, collaborators and friends who believed in my music. The greatest privilege has been creating music that connects people across cultures and generations. I never imagined my music would become part of the soundtrack of so many lives in South Africa. That love has been one of the greatest blessings of my career. I thank the Basadi in Music Awards, every fan who has supported me and everyone who continues to champion women in music. I look forward to celebrating with you on 8 August 2026 and performing alongside an incredible lineup. Thank you once again for this unforgettable honour.
”Hloni Modise-Matau, Founder and CEO of the Basadi in Music Awards, said Monique Bingham’s artistry has transcended borders and generations, making her a deserving recipient whose music has become part of South Africa’s cultural story.
Joburg Theatre CEO Xoliswa Nduneni-Ngema said the theatre is proud to celebrate an artist whose influence has connected people through music while supporting Basadi in Music Awards in recognising women of exceptional achievement.
Ms Manaileng Maphike of Maphike Attorneys Inc added that Bingham’s career reflects artistic excellence, longevity and the power of music to transcend borders, making her an ideal recipient of the 2026 International Recognition Award.
Event Information
The Basadi in Music Awards will take place at Joburg Theatre on 7–8 August 2026.
7 August – Vanguard Awards8 August – Music Awards Ceremony, including the presentation of the International Recognition Award to Monique Bingham and her live performance.
Naomi Mokhele
Soweto Sunrise News
