Known for changing the face of instrumental music in South Africa with their extraordinary fusion of virtuosity, fresh beats and undeniable X-factor, Sterling EQ added another trophy to their mantelpiece when their latest release, Pulse, won the Ghoema Music Award in the category Best Instrumental, where the all-woman supergroup was up against the likes of Rocco de Villiers, CH2, Martin Lane and Niël Rademan.

Pulse, which received rave reviews from South African media and international fans alike, is Sterling EQ’s fourth release, and their first under the EMI label. The group also boasts a SAMA Award as well as a list of hundreds of live performances across 10 countries.

In addition to their victory in the instrumental category, Sterling EQ also enjoyed a nomination in the coveted Best Music Video category for their video, Carnaval - an extremely unusual feat for an instrumental product to be recognised in one of the most highly contested categories in any music awards competition.

Lead player and founder, Carina Bruwer said jokingly in their acceptance speech, “Not only are we blown away by winning this award; it was already a victory for us to be nominated in the same category as Bobby van Jaarsveld for Best Music Video.” She also thanked the Ghoemas and the South African industry for embracing instrumental music and giving it the platform for which they and their fellow-nominees have been working tirelessly. Another special thanks went to Sterling EQ’s producer Mauritz Lotz, to record label EMI, and especially to their loyal fans.