It has been a remarkable year for Kabelo ‘Kabza De Small’ Motha, whose artistry continues to resonate profoundly in the music industry.
Recently crowned the most streamed local artist in South Africa on Spotify, Motha’s latest album, ‘Isimo,’ has also garnered acclaim as the most streamed album of 2024.
This acclaim adds another feather to the cap of the self-proclaimed “King of Amapiano,” who has swiftly become both a local icon and a global sensation.
Recently, at the 7th annual GQ Men of the Year Awards held in Johannesburg, Kabza De Small was celebrated as the Musician of the Year, a testament to his unwavering influence and creativity in the industry.
The awards function shone a light on innovators and trailblazers who continue to push the boundaries of their respective crafts, and Motha’s recognition is emblematic of his, and the Amapiano genre’s, meteoric rise.
Since bursting onto the scene in 2018, he has transcended boundaries, melding deep house, jazz, and Afro-fusion in a way that has resonated not just in South Africa, but across the globe.
As one half of Scorpion Kings alongside DJ Maphorisa, his collaborative effort has resulted in a series of chart-toppers that have propelled Amapiano into the international spotlight.
This year stood out also due to his innovative collaboration with acclaimed conductor Ofentse Pitse, where he led a symphonic orchestra in an electrifying music fusion.
In June, audiences were treated to a breathtaking 130-minute performance, showcasing not only Motha’s famous tracks like ‘Khusela’ and ‘Imithandazo’ but also a beautiful reimagining of Amapiano through the lens of classical music.
The event combined the rhythmic essence of Amapiano with the sweeping melodies of a 33-piece orchestra, complemented by an eight-piece choir to create a symphonic experience that captivated the audience.
The year 2024 is poised to be a significant milestone for Amapiano, with fans actively participating in the genre's evolution by curating and sharing their favourite tracks.
Spotify data reveals that over 20 million fan-made Amapiano playlists have emerged, signalling a surge in interest and engagement. Among the driving forces of this growth are Gen-Z listeners, who streamed more than 2 billion hours of Amapiano, a staggering 50% increase from the previous year.
The latest acts to break onto the scene, including LeeMcKrazy, Mellow & Sleazy, Tito, Yuppe, and Zee Nxumalo, have resonated particularly with younger audiences, ensuring the genre's trajectory remains upward.
As the Amapiano movement celebrates its decade-long influence, there’s no denying that Motha’s artistry has contributed to pushing its boundaries and captivating the world.
Saturday Star