Kabza de Small '' The king of Amapiano''

For the deep listeners of amapiano, you may have come across the artist by the name Kabza de small. But, who is Kabza de small?

Born Kabelo Petrus Motha on 27 November 1992 in eMalahleni, Mpumalanga, South Africa, is a highly influential DJ and record producer. He is well renowned for his pioneering role in Amapiano ,a subgenre of house music that blends jazz, lounge, and deep house elements.

Kabza de Small began his musical career in 2009 and released his first album, Avenue Sound, in 2016. He gained significant attention with the 2018 single “Umshove,” featuring Leehleza, which helped gain popularity. He is also part of the duo Scorpion Kings with DJ Maphorisa, with whom he has released several successful collaborative projects, including Piano Hub EP and The Return of Scorpion Kings.

Before all this, Kabza worked on popularising his sound. His efforts such as DJing at events, word of mouth, and social media, helped spread the sound widely. His genius is clearly seen in tracks like “Abalele,” “Sponono,” and “Nana Thula”

Before his rise to stardom, Kabza worked various jobs, including as a lawnmower, highlighting his humble beginnings and determination to succeed in music. His journey from a local DJ to the “King of Amapiano” showcases his evolution through hard work, early industry exposure, and a pivotal breakthrough with genre-defining hits

ACHIVEMENTS

In 2021 he was ranked number 18 on Forbes Africa’s 30 under 30 list
His 2020 album I Am the King of Amapiano: Sweet & Dust debuted at number one in South Africa and was certified double platinum. Kabza de Small has received numerous awards, including thirteen South African Music Awards and multiple other accolades.
Named “Musician of the Year” by GQ South Africa in 2024.
The December of 2020 he was the most streamed artist on spotify.

Influence and legacy

Kabza De Small is widely credited with shaping the sound and global reach of Amapiano music. His productions are known for their intricate piano melodies, deep basslines, and infectious rhythms. He has collaborated with numerous prominent artists and continues to influence both the South African and international music scenes.

Personal life

Kabza De Small married Kamogelo Geloo Moropa in 2023. He is based in Johannesburg and continues to run his own label, PianoHub

Kabza De Small remains a central figure in contemporary African music, consistently pushing the boundaries of Amapiano and inspiring a new generation of artists and fans worldwide12