Grandmaster Ready D, has been honoured for his unmatched contributions to music and culture both in South Africa. Picture: Supplied
Image: Supplied
In a night filled with celebration, legacy, and cultural pride, South African hip hop pioneer and cultural trailblazer Grandmaster Ready D was honoured with the Urban Music Awards (UMA) Icon 2025 Award.
The prestigious ceremony, held at Heartfelt Arena in Pretoria, marked the 20th anniversary of the UMAs — a platform that continues to spotlight both legendary contributions and rising talent in the local and global music scenes.
DJ Ready D, revered for his revolutionary artistry, commitment to community upliftment, and genre-defining performances, received his accolade surrounded by South African music royalty.
Speaking to IOL, Ready D, real name Deon Daniels, expressed how incredibly honoured and humbled he is to have received the Icon Award.
"To be recognised in this way is not just about me - it’s about the people, the culture, and the mission that has carried me through the years.
"This award is for everyone who’s been part of this journey. I want to sincerely thank Mr Quentin Bailey, Reebok South Africa, and Casio South Africa for their incredible support in getting me to the awards ceremony. Your belief made this moment possible," he said.
A founding member of groundbreaking groups like Prophets of Da City, The Beatbangaz, and Brasse Vannie Kaap, Ready D’s career spans decades of innovation.
He has shared stages with global icons such as Public Enemy, The Fugees, and Grandmaster Flash, making him a pivotal figure in both local and international hip hop narratives.
South African hip hop pioneer and cultural trailblazer Grandmaster Ready D with his Urban Music Awards Icon Award. Picture: Supplied
Image: Supplied
Yet his impact goes beyond music: he is a mentor to young creatives, a community activist, and a passionate advocate across motorsport and television.
The Icon Award serves as a powerful tribute to a life lived through rhythm, resistance, and purpose. It affirms Ready D’s enduring influence and his vital role in shaping South Africa’s cultural identity.
"This is also a powerful moment to shine a light on the work we do at our not-for-profit organisation, GCAP, where we use music as an educational tool to uplift and inspire the youth we serve.
"This award gives us another platform to drive awareness and continue building resilient, creative, and empowered communities," he added.
As he continues to empower the next generation, this honour cements his place among the most respected and transformative voices in South African music history.
Icons such as Letta Mbulu, Boom Shaka, Zola, and ProVerb joined Ready D in celebrating a legacy built on creativity, activism, and cultural relevance. Alongside the veterans, the night also saluted a new generation of artists who are redefining the future soundscape of South Africa.
The 2025 UMAs reached a global audience through VooVix TV Productions, broadcasting live to over 15 countries and capturing the attention of more than 27 million viewers across digital platforms, a testament to South Africa’s growing cultural influence on the international stage.
IOL Entertainment