The Rise of Kabza De Small: Why He’s Called the King of Amapiano

The Rise of Kabza De Small: King of Amapiano Explained

When you think of Amapiano, one name stands above all – Kabza De Small. Known for his soulful beats, deep log drums, and unmatched consistency, Kabza has become the heartbeat of South Africa’s most loved sound. Here’s how he rose from humble beginnings to become the undisputed King of Amapiano.

Who Is Kabza De Small?

Real Name: Kabelo Petrus Motha
Born: November 27, 1992
Birthplace: eMalahleni, Mpumalanga, South Africa
Occupation: DJ, Producer, Songwriter
Genres: Amapiano, House, Deep House

Kabza started producing music in the early 2010s, but it wasn’t until 2018 that he became a household name. His breakout track “Umshove” featuring Leehleza brought a fresh new sound that defined what we now know as Amapiano.

Early Life and Breakthrough

Growing up, Kabza was fascinated by music production software and spent long hours experimenting with beats. His passion led him to release his debut album “Avenue Sound” in 2016 under the BestByFar label.
But the real turning point came in 2018, when he teamed up with DJ Maphorisa to form The Scorpion Kings — a duo that would completely revolutionize the genre.

Their collaborative EPs and albums — especially “Piano Hub” (2019) and “Scorpion Kings Live” — brought Amapiano to mainstream audiences not just in South Africa, but across Africa and Europe.

Major Achievements & Milestones

140+ Songs with Over 1 Million Spotify Streams Each (as of 2025).
Most Streamed Local Artist in South Africa – Spotify Wrapped 2024.
Multi-Platinum Certified Albums: “Piano Hub,” “The Return of the Scorpion Kings,” and “I Am the King of Amapiano: Sweet & Dust.”
Awards: Multiple South African Music Awards (SAMAs), Metro FM Awards, and international recognitions.
Global Reach: Collaborations with Nigerian, UK, and U.S. artists have expanded Amapiano beyond Africa.

Hit Songs You Should Know

Some of Kabza De Small’s biggest tracks include:

Umshove (feat. Leehleza)
Abalele (with DJ Maphorisa & Ami Faku)
Sponono (feat. Wizkid, Burna Boy, Cassper Nyovest, Madumane)
Imithandazo (with Mthunzi)
Siyabonga (feat. Daliwonga, DJ Maphorisa & Young Stunna)

These songs not only topped charts but also shaped the dance culture associated with Amapiano.

Net Worth and Income

Kabza’s estimated net worth ranges between $2 million and $5 million (USD) — equivalent to around R36 million to R90 million.
His income streams include:

Streaming royalties from Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube
Live performances and international tours
Brand partnerships and endorsements
Record sales and production royalties

Impact on the Amapiano Genre

Kabza De Small didn’t just make hits — he created a movement.
His deep log drum patterns and soulful chords became the signature of modern Amapiano. His production inspired hundreds of young South African producers and DJs.

He also made Amapiano more global, working with artists from Nigeria, Ghana, and the UK — proving that the genre could stand shoulder to shoulder with Afrobeats and Afro-House.

Culture and Influence

Kabza’s music is the soundtrack of South African youth. His beats dominate TikTok dance challenges, club mixes, and even international fashion shows.
Everywhere you go — from Lagos to London — there’s an Amapiano groove in the air, and it often traces back to Kabza’s sound.

The Future of Kabza De Small

As of 2025, Kabza continues to lead the Amapiano wave with new albums, features, and collaborations.
His latest projects hint at an even more international sound, blending Amapiano with Afrobeats, R&B, and electronic elements. Fans believe the “King of Amapiano” is just getting started.

Kabza De Small isn’t just an artist – he’s a cultural phenomenon.
He turned a local sound from South Africa into a global genre, inspiring millions and putting Amapiano on the world stage.

With his consistency, creativity, and pure passion for the music, it’s no wonder he wears the crown as The King of Amapiano.