02/10/2025
SPOTLIGHT: PAN African Menelik Nesta Gibbons (Don Dada) will be recognized for his contributions to African and diasporic culture which are so significant—spanning music, broadcasting, entrepreneurship, and global representation through the Recording Academy (Grammys) as a Voting Member —that his recognition within the Icons of Africa Awards would not only honour him, but also affirm the values and legacy the Awards stand for.
Menelik Nesta Gibbons, professionally known as **Don Dada**, stands as a trailblazer whose influence has powerfully shaped African and diasporic culture on the global stage. A pioneering hip-hop and reggae artist, broadcaster, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Don Dada embodies the spirit of African excellence, innovation, and resilience.
From his early beginnings, Don Dada has consistently broken barriers and created platforms that amplify African voices worldwide. As one of the first South African hip-hop artists to sign with the legendary **Tuff Gong International **—founded by Bob Marley—he has carried the sound and soul of Africa to international audiences, uniting reggae and hip-hop cultures across continents. His music, marked by authenticity and cultural consciousness, has become a bridge between Africa and the diaspora, resonating deeply with themes of liberation, unity, and empowerment.
Beyond his artistry, Don Dada has demonstrated remarkable leadership and vision. Through his record label, **RUFF CUTT Studio**, he has nurtured talent and championed African creativity, ensuring that upcoming artists have access to opportunities on both local and global stages. His groundbreaking 2017 VIVA Mandela track commissioned by Content Connect Africa went multi-platinum within 4 months of release , reached nearly 2 million people, is a testament to his ability to blend art, activism, and mass impact.
As a voice of the culture, Don Dada has also made history as an African Reggae hip-hop artist to perform live on Bob Marley’s 2019 Tribute Concert Stage , showcasing Africa’s vibrant artistry to international audiences. His influence and reach have also been recognized through his industry peers by the Recording Academy (Grammys), where his Voting Membership underscores his position as a respected cultural ambassador representing Africa in the most prestigious global music institution.
Menelik Nesta Gibbons (Don Dada) is more than an artist—he is a cultural architect, a connector of continents, African diaspora, and an advocate for Africa’s creative economy. His journey exemplifies the transformative power of African talent to shape global narratives, inspire future generations, and celebrate the richness of our heritage.
For his undeniable impact in music, culture, and the unifying of Africa and its diaspora, Don Dada is a worthy and compelling candidate for the Icons of Africa Awards.
His album Alkebulan was said to be as "Important Part Of Black History" by the SABC
Don Dada, the multi-platinum artist behind Viva Mandela and the album Alkebulan, continues to merge reggae, hip hop, and African consciousness to honor heritage, healing, and hope. Read on https://tinyurl.com/35ssxmyk
