After South African singer Tyla won the inaugural golden gramophone for Best African Music Performance at the 2024 GRAMMYs award show, many likely wondered why her international breakout single “Water” garnered such global appeal. The answer lies not just in the R&B sensibilities that made its sound approachable to Western audiences, but in the vibrancy of South African dance and elements of amapiano — a genre that combines house music with the sounds of South Africa’s post-Apartheid freedom sound, kwaito. It was amapiano’s infectious rhythms, highlighted in “Water,” that have helped to catapult South African sound onto the global stage.
However, Tyla is not alone in this musical journey. A cadre of women has been instrumental in propelling amapiano to international recognition. From Zimbabwean singer Sha Sha, whose 2019 breakout signified a pivotal moment for the genre, to the likes of Mawhoo, Ami Faku, Bontle Smith, and Nobantu Vilakazi, these artists have infused the genre with soulful vocals and heart-wrenching melodies, showcasing amapiano’s versatility and depth.
Below is a list of 11 influential women who are key in elevating amapiano to global heights:
- DBN Gogo – This Durban-born DJ and producer has become one of amapiano’s most sought-after acts. Her viral dance challenges and performances at international festivals showcase her as a pivotal figure in the genre’s global reach.
- Nkosazana Daughter – Known for her ethereal vocals, Nkosazana Daughter has captured the hearts of amapiano lovers worldwide, blending her unique sound with the genre’s rhythmic beats.
- TXC (Tarynn Reid and Clair Hefke) – This DJ duo has made significant inroads on the international stage, showcasing the global appeal of amapiano through their electrifying performances and production work.
- Babalwa M – As the queen of private school amapiano, Babalwa M has refined the genre with her deeply soulful approach, working alongside producer Kelvin Momo to create timeless tracks.
- Uncle Waffles – From viral videos to international tours, Uncle Waffles epitomizes amapiano’s global appeal, blending DJing with dynamic performances that have garnered a worldwide following.
- Chley – With her slick verses and collaborations with top amapiano producers, Chley has quickly become a secret weapon for hit anthems within the genre.
- Kamo Mphela – A viral sensation turned amapiano star, Kamo Mphela has redefined the role of dance in the genre, making it an indispensable element of performance and appeal.
- Boohle – From gospel roots to amapiano sensation, Boohle’s soulful voice has become synonymous with some of the genre’s biggest hits, captivating audiences both locally and internationally.
- Lady Du – A family background in music set the stage for Lady Du’s rise in amapiano, where her unique blend of vocals and rapping has solidified her status as a genre mainstay.
- Pabi Cooper – Breaking out with hits that get the whole nation moving, Pabi Cooper’s infectious energy and catchy tracks have made her a favorite among amapiano fans.
These artists, through their unique contributions and relentless drive, are not just performers but ambassadors of a sound that is inherently South African yet universally resonant. As amapiano continues to evolve and spread across the globe, the influence of these remarkable women ensures that the genre remains vibrant, diverse, and boundless.
