5 Amapiano Acts We'd Love To See Make an Explosive Comeback
Official Newsletter for the Global Awards Ceremony for Amapiano
Amapiano has come a long way from its humble beginnings as an underground sound in South Africa to becoming a global phenomenon. It’s easy to forget that there was a time when the rest of the world wasn’t familiar with the genre as they are today. Reflecting on its journey, we remember the songs and artists that helped Amapiano break through to the mainstream, turning it into the cultural force it is now. These artists were instrumental in commercializing the genre and shaping our love for it. Let’s take a look at five Amapiano artists whose early hits helped define the sound and whom we’d love to see make an explosive comeback.
Jobe London
In 2019, the young and energetic Jobe London burst onto the Amapiano scene with the now-classic hit “Suk’endleleni (Jobe)” featuring Mpho69 and Kamo Manje. Interestingly, the Kamo Manje you hear on this track is none other than Kamo Mphela, who initially went by that name before changing her moniker. Fast forward to this year, Jobe London dropped his latest EP, Lacadoli V2.0, alongside King P, released in May, showing he’s still very much in the game.
Miano, Semi Tee & Kammu Dee
Who still remembers the addictive anthem “Labantwana Ama Uber” by Semi Tee featuring Miano & Kammu Dee? Although they were never officially a group, their combination delivered several hits that shaped the Amapiano scene. With their raw, rhyme-spitting, fast-paced flows, they redefined lyricism within the genre and helped commercialize rapping over Amapiano beats. They also joined forces on the infectious “Lorch” with the Scorpion Kings, creating another classic. Since then, Miano released Chesa Chelete in April 2024, Kammu Dee dropped Sihamba Sonke in August 2024, and Semi Tee put out his album Ramaila in June 2024, though their recent projects haven’t quite recaptured the same level of buzz as their earlier hits.
Jazzidisciples
Arguably one of the greatest Amapiano duos of all time, the Jazzidisciples were not only responsible for creating timeless Amapiano classics but were also ahead of their time musically. Comprised of Mr JazziQ and Josiah De Disciple, they delivered hit tracks like the fan-favorite “Sgubu Se Monate”, as well as “Long Lasting”. However, the duo eventually parted ways to pursue solo careers. Their last known release as a group was “Imbizo,” a 2020 collaboration with Boohle, marking the end of an era for the duo’s joint contributions to the genre.
Sha Sha
Affectionately known as the “Queen of Amapiano,” Sha Sha is one of the pioneering vocalists who played a pivotal role in transforming the genre. Amapiano, which initially thrived on instrumental beats and vocal samples, evolved into full-fledged songs with rich vocal performances, thanks to artists like her. Sha Sha’s contributions helped shape the sound into what we recognize and love today, blending soulful melodies with the signature Amapiano beats. Her notable stand out plug hits include tunes such as “Tender Love” featuring DJ Maphorisa & Kabza De Small as well as “Akulaleki” alongside Samthing Soweto, DJ Maphorisa & Kabza De Small. Her latest solo album is “I’m Alive” and was released in 2022.
Reece Madlisa & Zuma (Amaroto)
You probably still recall Reece Madlisa’s signature “A-hah” chant that echoed through almost every Amaroto track. Amaroto, another Amapiano supergroup, undoubtedly reached legendary status with their infectious Kwaito-influenced tunes. Some of their standout hits include “Zlele” featuring Mr JazziQ and Busta 929, as well as “VSOP” with Mr JazziQ, Busta 929, 9umba, and the late Riky Rick and Mpura. They also made waves with “Umsebenzi Wethu,” which won Amapiano Song of the Year at the inaugural Amapiano Awards in 2021. Their final collaboration, “Amaphutha,” was released in 2022 before the group parted ways.
As we reflect on the unforgettable hits and groundbreaking artists that shaped Amapiano’s ascent, it’s evident that these pioneers were instrumental in transforming the genre from an underground movement into a mainstream sensation. While some of these artists may have stepped back from the spotlight, their contributions remain etched in the genre’s history, and their influence continues to inspire the next generation of Amapiano creators. Amapiano’s journey is far from over, and these trailblazers will continue to have a place in its evolving story.
By the Amapiano Awards Research Team