Amapiano, a genre originating from South Africa, has taken the global music scene by storm with its infectious beats and unique fusion of deep house, jazz, and lounge music. While the genre has seen a plethora of talented artists, certain female stars have risen to prominence, redefining the sound and cultural significance of Amapiano. Here, we spotlight five of the most influential female Amapiano artists of the past decade;
1. DBN Gogo
DBN Gogo, born Mandisa Radebe, is a DJ and producer who has significantly impacted the Amapiano scene. Her journey in music is marked by her incredible ability to blend various genres seamlessly into her Amapiano sets, creating a unique and electrifying experience for her audience. DBN Gogo’s rise to fame was rapid, fueled by her captivating performances and infectious energy.
She has played at some of the biggest music festivals and events, not just in South Africa but internationally. Her influence extends beyond her music as she has become a fashion icon and a voice for female empowerment in the music industry. Tracks like “Dakiwe” have cemented her status as a leading figure in the Amapiano genre.
2. Nkosazana Daughter
Nkosazana Daughter, born Nkosazana Nolwazi Kimberly, has become a household name in the Amapiano scene with her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. She burst onto the scene with a series of collaborations that showcased her vocal prowess and emotional depth. Her ability to convey powerful emotions through her music has endeared her to fans worldwide.
Known for hits like “Sofa Silahlane” and “Izitha,” Nkosazana Daughter has a knack for creating songs that resonate deeply with listeners. Her contribution to the Amapiano genre goes beyond just her voice; she has also been involved in songwriting and production, further showcasing her versatility and talent.
3. Uncle Waffles
Uncle Waffles, born Lungelihle Zwane, has quickly risen to prominence in the Amapiano scene, thanks to her dynamic DJ sets and undeniable stage presence. She gained widespread attention with her viral DJ videos, which showcased not only her mixing skills but also her ability to engage and energize a crowd.
Uncle Waffles’ meteoric rise is a testament to her talent and the power of social media in the modern music landscape. She has played at major festivals and events, and her influence continues to grow. With her infectious enthusiasm and skill, Uncle Waffles is undoubtedly one of the most exciting talents in Amapiano today.
4. Kamo Mphela
Kamo Mphela is a multi-talented artist known for her singing, dancing, and overall entertainment prowess. She became a viral sensation with her dance videos, which led to her venturing into music. Kamo Mphela’s energetic performances and catchy songs have made her a staple in the Amapiano genre.
Tracks like “Nkulunkulu” and “Amanikiniki” have garnered millions of views and streams, showcasing her ability to create hits that resonate with a broad audience. Her choreography and stage presence are unmatched, making her one of the most dynamic performers in the genre.
5. Boohle
Boohle, born Buhle Manyathi, is another standout artist in the Amapiano genre known for her captivating voice and emotive performances. She has been a part of several hit tracks, contributing her vocal talent to songs that have topped charts and gained widespread acclaim.
Her collaborations with other Amapiano artists have produced some of the genre’s most memorable tracks, such as “Mama” and “Yini Na.” Boohle’s ability to blend traditional South African sounds with modern Amapiano beats has set her apart as a unique and influential artist.
These five female artists—DBN Gogo, Nkosazana Daughter, Uncle Waffles, Kamo Mphela, and Boohle—have each brought something special to the Amapiano genre. Their contributions have not only helped shape the sound of Amapiano but have also paved the way for future generations of female artists. As Amapiano continues to evolve and gain international recognition, these talented women will undoubtedly remain at the forefront, inspiring and entertaining audiences worldwide.
