The 22nd Annual South African Music Awards was held on 4 June 2016 at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, Durban, South Africa and was hosted by Somizi Mhlongo and Thando Thabethe.

[1][2] The nominees were announced on 21 April 2016 with Nathi, Emtee, Zonke Dikana, and Riky Rick topping the list with four nominations each.

[3] Nathi garnered the most awards with five while Black Coffee came closest by claiming four awards.

[4][5] Below is the list of nominees and winners for the popular music categories.

Winners are highlighted in bold.