South Africa’s Biggest Amapiano Stars Right Now: Kelvin Momo, Kabza De Small, and Scott Maphuma
South Africa’s music scene is buzzing with the pulsating rhythms of Amapiano, a genre that blends deep house, jazz, and lounge music, taking over airwaves not just across Africa, but globally. Among the many talented artists shaping the genre’s identity, Kelvin Momo, Kabza De Small, and Scott Maphuma have emerged as some of the biggest stars leading the Amapiano revolution.
Let’s dive deeper into who these trailblazers are and why they’ve captured the world’s attention.
Kelvin Momo: The King of Momo’s Sound
When it comes to Amapiano’s rise in popularity, Kelvin Momo has definitely earned his seat at the table. Known for his distinctive “Momo sound”, Kelvin is a master at blending soulful piano melodies with deep bass lines. The Pretoria-based producer, DJ, and composer has created a unique sound that appeals to fans across different genres.
His breakthrough came with his album "Momo’s Private School" in 2020, which introduced listeners to his signature style — a combination of emotional, slow-tempo beats with the energizing undertones of Amapiano. Tracks like “Amukelani” and “Sghubu” showcase his ability to blend Afro-soul and deep house, making him a favorite not just in South Africa, but across the continent.
Kelvin’s ability to craft atmospheric yet groovy sounds has made him a go-to collaborator for other stars in the Amapiano space. His work with other top-tier artists continues to strengthen his place as one of the most sought-after Amapiano producers today.
Kabza De Small: The Amapiano Giant
Kabza De Small, also known as the "King of Amapiano", has been a monumental figure in the Amapiano scene for several years. With a career that spans almost a decade, Kabza’s contributions have made him a household name, not only in South Africa but internationally. His production style is deeply rooted in the traditional Amapiano sound, characterized by catchy piano riffs, groovy basslines, and infectious drum patterns.
One of Kabza’s most remarkable achievements is his ability to continually evolve his sound while staying true to the roots of Amapiano. Whether collaborating with the likes of DJ Maphorisa, Burna Boy, or Wizkid, or producing his solo projects like “I Am the King of Amapiano” and “Risen King”, Kabza’s influence on Amapiano is undeniable.
His collaboration with DJ Maphorisa, collectively known as Scorpion Kings, has resulted in chart-topping albums that have become iconic in the genre. Tracks like “Sponono”, “Funa Wena”, and “Umsholozi” highlight his mastery in producing the genre's signature sounds while also experimenting with new ideas to keep things fresh. Kabza's unwavering consistency and passion for the craft have firmly cemented him as one of South Africa's most influential Amapiano artists of all time.
Scott Maphuma: A Rising Star Making Waves
While Scott Maphuma is relatively newer to the Amapiano scene compared to Kelvin Momo and Kabza, he is quickly becoming a favorite. Scott’s sound is often described as a harmonious blend of soulful Amapiano rhythms with traditional African music influences, giving his productions a fresh yet familiar feel. His versatility as both a producer and vocalist has made him a unique figure in Amapiano.
Scott’s rise to fame can be credited to his unique approach to music and his ability to fuse different sounds seamlessly. With hits like "Xpress", "Tbh", and "Hamba" making waves on the charts, Scott Maphuma has gained an impressive fan base both in South Africa and abroad. His work is reflective of the genre’s evolution, with a perfect balance of classic Amapiano beats and new-age experimental sounds.
In just a few years, Scott has proven his musical prowess, and his trajectory seems limitless as he continues to create more music that resonates with fans from various walks of life. He’s one of the exciting new voices in the genre, and his future looks incredibly bright.
The Global Impact of Amapiano
What sets these three stars apart from many others in the genre is their ability to bridge cultural gaps and spread Amapiano's infectious grooves across the world. Amapiano has quickly become a global phenomenon, with artists like Kabza, Kelvin, and Scott representing South Africa on stages worldwide. From Europe to the United States, Amapiano is showing that it’s not just a South African movement, but an international one.
As artists, Kelvin Momo, Kabza De Small, and Scott Maphuma each bring their own flair to the genre, making their contributions invaluable to the Amapiano sound. They continue to push boundaries and experiment with new sounds, ensuring that Amapiano remains fresh and relevant for years to come.