Amapiano is a genre of house music that emerged in South Africa in the mid-2010s. Known for its distinctive sound and danceable beats, Amapiano has become a major force in the global music scene.
In 2023, Amapiano had 1.4 billion streams on Spotify – 55 percent of that was from outside of Africa. If you want your content and programming to reach the right audience, in- or outside of Africa, you need a steady supply of Amapiano production music.
We have a wide selection of Amapiano production albums and playlists and are constantly creating more albums to keep up with the evolution of this genre and bring you permutations that will work for different moods and projects….
Mama Dance top Amapiano albums
What is Amapiano?
Here are all the facts:
Amapiano is a Fusion of Styles:
- Deep House: Rooted in the deep house tradition with smooth, soulful vibes.
- Jazz: Amapiano incorporates jazzy piano melodies and chords, giving the genre its name (“amapiano” means “the pianos” in Zulu).
- Kwaito: Draws elements from kwaito, a South African genre that blends house music with hip-hop.
Instrumentation and Sound:
- Piano Melodies: Characterised by melodic piano riffs that often lead the tracks.
- Log Drums: Amapiano features a distinctive log drum sound, which creates a deep, resonant bassline.
- Percussion: Uses a variety of percussive elements, including shakers and congas, to create intricate rhythms.
Tempo and Beat:
- Typically slower than traditional house music, Amapiano tempos range from 110 to 120 BPM.
- Utilises a syncopated, off-beat rhythm that gives the music a laid-back yet groovy feel.
Vocal Style:
- Chants and Hooks: Often features catchy vocal hooks and chants.
- Collaborations: Amapiano frequently involves collaborations with vocalists who add lyrical content, ranging from party anthems to social commentary.
The Origins of Amapiano:
- Emerged in the townships of Johannesburg and Pretoria, evolving from the local house and kwaito scenes.
- Initially spread through local parties and social gatherings before gaining mainstream attention.
Global Reach:
- Amapiano has transcended South Africa’s borders, becoming popular in other parts of Africa and beyond.
- International artists and DJs have incorporated Amapiano elements into their music, further boosting its global presence.
Influence on Pop Culture:
- Amapiano dance styles have become viral sensations, with choreographed routines spreading on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
- Influences fashion and lifestyle trends, with many artists setting new cultural standards.
Key Tracks and Artists
- Notable Tracks:
- “John Wick” by De Mthuda & Ntokzin: An iconic Amapiano track known for its smooth piano riffs and catchy beats.
- “Ke Star” by Focalistic featuring Vigro Deep: A song that gained international popularity, showcasing the genre’s infectious energy.
- “Amanikiniki” by MFR Souls featuring Major League DJz, Kamo Mphela, and Bontle Smith: A hit track with a signature Amapiano sound and danceable rhythm.
- Prominent Artists:
- Kabza De Small: Often referred to as the “King of Amapiano,” he has been instrumental in popularizing the genre with numerous hits and collaborations.
- DJ Maphorisa: A versatile producer and DJ who has played a significant role in the rise of Amapiano, collaborating with many top artists.
- Focalistic: A rapper who has successfully blended Amapiano with hip-hop, creating a unique and popular sound.
- Emerging Artists:
- Kamo Mphela: Known for her dynamic performances and catchy Amapiano tracks.
- Vigro Deep: A young producer who has made a significant impact with his innovative beats and productions.
Amapiano continues to evolve and grow, influencing not just music but also dance, fashion, and overall cultural trends. Its blend of deep, soulful melodies with vibrant, danceable rhythms makes it a genre that resonates with a wide audience, ensuring its place in the global music landscape.
