“This win is a testament to the fact that music has the power to unite and to heal.”
These were the powerful words shared by University of Johannesburg (UJ) alumnus Wouter Kellerman during his acceptance speech for his third Grammy award win. The flautist, producer and composer who has won nine South African Music Awards, flew the flag high at the 67th Grammy Awards on 03 February 2025 held in Los Angeles and hosted by fellow South African, comedian Trevor Noah.
Kellerman took home the win in the Best New Age, Ambient or Chant Music category for his album Triveni in collaboration with Eru Matsumoto and Chandrika Tandon.
Over the years, the musician has collaborated with several artists worldwide including the popular Ndlovu Youth Choir, Ricky Kej, David Arkenstone and the Soweto Gospel Choir.
His music bridges cultural divides and his mentorship inspires countless others. His collaboration with the Ndlovu Youth Choir helped catapult the choir to fame with their African version of Ed Sheeran’s popular Shape of You hit. The collaboration earned them an HMMA – Hollywood Music in Media Award for Best Independent Music Video.
“Music connects, I am grateful to share this music with you,” he said.
His last two Grammy Awards were won with Ricky Kej in 2015 and more recently in 2023 with Zakes Bantwini and Nomcebo Zikode.
The University of Johannesburg also honoured Kellerman at the Dignitas Alumni Awards last year for his incredible legacy of art and activism.
