In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of South African music, the Amapiano genre has emerged as a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences both locally and globally. Spotify, one of the world’s leading music streaming platforms, has become a reliable barometer for measuring an artist’s popularity and influence. As we delve into 2023, let’s explore the 10 most streamed South African artists on Spotify, with Amapiano taking center stage.
- Kabza De Small – The Amapiano Maestro:
Claiming the top spot is Kabza De Small, hailed as the undisputed king of Amapiano. His signature sound, characterized by infectious beats and soulful melodies, has resonated across the globe. Fans have flocked to Spotify to indulge in his extensive discography, making him the most streamed South African artist of 2023.
- DJ Maphorisa – A Collaborative Force:
Teaming up with Kabza De Small on numerous occasions, DJ Maphorisa secures the second spot on the list. Known for his collaborative spirit, Maphorisa’s versatility and production prowess have played a pivotal role in elevating Amapiano to new heights, garnering a massive following on Spotify.
- Sjava – Bridging Genres:
Sjava, known for his seamless blend of Afro-soul and Amapiano influences, claims the third position. His distinctive voice and ability to bridge different genres have attracted a diverse audience, solidifying his place as one of the most streamed South African artists on Spotify in 2023.
- Kelvin Momo – A Rising Star:
Kelvin Momo’s ascent in the Amapiano scene has been nothing short of meteoric, earning him the fourth spot on the list. With a unique approach to production and a string of chart-topping hits, Kelvin Momo has become a favorite among Amapiano enthusiasts on Spotify.
- Mellow & Sleazy – Collaborative Brilliance:
As a duo, Mellow & Sleazy have made a significant impact on the Amapiano landscape, securing the fifth spot on the most streamed South African artists on Spotify. Their collaborative brilliance and ability to craft infectious beats have earned them a dedicated fan base.
- Nasty C – The Hip-Hop Influence:
While primarily known for his prowess in the hip-hop genre, Nasty C’s foray into Amapiano has been well-received by fans. Claiming the sixth spot, Nasty C brings a unique flavor to the Amapiano scene, showcasing the genre’s adaptability and cross-genre appeal on Spotify.
- AKA – A Veteran Presence:
As a veteran in the South African music industry, AKA maintains his relevance by embracing new sounds. Claiming the seventh spot, AKA’s exploration of Amapiano reflects the genre’s influence and its ability to captivate artists across diverse musical backgrounds.
- Tyler ICU – Production Excellence:
Tyler ICU’s exceptional production skills have earned him the eighth spot on the list. His contributions to the Amapiano sound, characterized by intricate beats and immersive melodies, have propelled him into the spotlight on Spotify.
- Joyous Celebration – Gospel Amapiano Fusion:
Combining the soul-stirring elements of gospel with the infectious beats of Amapiano, Joyous Celebration secures the ninth spot. Their unique fusion has resonated with a wide audience, making them one of the most streamed South African artists on Spotify in 2023.
- Aymos – Closing the Top 10:
Closing the list is Aymos, whose distinctive vocal style and collaborative efforts have earned him the tenth spot. Aymos’ contributions to various Amapiano hits have garnered him a dedicated fan base on Spotify.
As we navigate the musical landscape of South Africa in 2023, the dominance of Amapiano is evident in the most streamed artists on Spotify. From the rhythmic beats of Kabza De Small to the collaborative brilliance of Mellow & Sleazy, these artists have played a pivotal role in shaping the Amapiano narrative and bringing it to the forefront of global music. The diversity within the top 10 reflects the genre’s ability to transcend boundaries and captivate audiences across different musical preferences.