Legendary bassist, composer, producer and multi-instrumentalist ‘Om’ Alec Khaoli is the recipient of the 2026 National Arts and Culture: Lifetime Achievement Award. The Gallo Music Publishers Family would like to congratulate the prolific music maestro on his outstanding contribution to South African music and culture.

Khaoli helped pioneer the 1980s bubblegum and electric pop movement after establishing his career with the afro-rock group Harari. Khaoli launched Umoja and released a string of synth-driven hits, including “You Are the One” and “Magic Touch“.