The year 2003 saw Africa’s premier 24hr music channel, Channel O, host its first ever music awards called the ‘Reel Music Video Awards’, held at the M-Net studios.

The Channel O Reel Music Video Awards set out to recognise both the performer and copyright owners throughout Africa for their contribution to African music.

Comprising with 22 categories, the viewers took the task upon themselves to vote for their favourite videos but the most memorable awards went to the late legendary South African composer Enoch Sontonga and Nigerian singer, composer, instrumentalist, the late Fela Kuti who both received recognition in the Lifetime Achievement category.

2004 went by without the awards but were back in full force in 2005 and this time known as the ‘The Channel O African Music Video Awards’ held at the Johannesburg Civic Theatre. SMSes and online votes poured in from enthusiastic Channel O viewers across the continent, totalling an incredible 75 000 + votes across the 21 categories.

That year saw SA jazz legend Hugh Masekela being recognised for his contribution to music in developing a drug rehabilitation program to help troubled artists.

The 2005 Channel O African Music Video Awards lived up to its billing as a unique awards show, featuring a spectacular set, presenters arriving onstage in cars and taxi’s and top-quality music to keep the enthusiastic crowd in the mood.

The awards grew from strength to strength every and in 2006, the awards where now known as the ‘Channel O Spirit of Africa Music Video Awards’ and held at Gallagher Estate.

Zola received the Special Recognition Award for his role in uplifting the youth throughout the continent; most notably the work that he has done as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in East Africa. Nigeria shined at the wards with Mode 9 (featuring Nnena) taking home three awards, followed by 2Face with two awards.

The show was hosted by comedian David Kau, assisted by Channel O VJs. Top bands including Arthur, Freshlyground, HHP, Ntando, Mzekezeke, Longombas, Mista Doe and Gal Level treated the crowd to vibrant performances.

2007 sees Channel O and Amarula together again for the bigger and better ‘Spirit of Africa Music Video Awards.’ The highly acclaimed music video awards will be staged at the Johannesburg City Hall on Thursday 11 October 2007.

Last year’s awards ceremony witnessed Nigeria scoop 9 awards in the 18 categories. Will Nigeria enjoy the same ride this year or will the tables be turned?

The highlight of the award ceremony is the Special Recognition Award. So far, the recipients of the Special Recognition Award include Zola who received the award last year, while Hugh Masekela was honoured in 2005. Both Enoch Sontonga and Fela Kuti received posthumous awards in 2003.

Who will it be this year? Make a date with Channel O on Thursday 11 October at the Johannesburg City Hall to find out!