South Africa’s Amapiano trailblazer, Kabza De Small, has taken the global stage by storm once again — this time with a sold-out solo debut in the Big Apple. On Saturday night, the “King of Amapiano” delivered an unforgettable, high-energy set at the Knockdown Centre in Queens, New York, leaving the crowd in awe and proving once more that Amapiano has gone international.
Born Kabelo Motha, Kabza headlined the Descendants showcase, joined by fellow South African DJs Caiiro from Mpumalanga and QUE DJ from KwaMashu, Durban. The night was a celebration of South African sound and identity, and Kabza’s performance was its crowning jewel.
The Knockdown Centre pulsed with energy as Kabza took fans on a sonic journey through his signature blend of smooth piano melodies, log drums, and hypnotic basslines. Not only did he perform chart-topping hits from his expansive catalogue, but he also teased exclusive unreleased tracks from his highly anticipated upcoming album.
Speaking to TimesLIVE before the show, Kabza expressed pride and gratitude: “It feels amazing and it’s such an honour. To be a witness to the way Amapiano has catapulted into different regions of the world has been incredible. I love that the sound has been loved by people from all over.”
Amapiano — born in the townships of South Africa — has in recent years grown into a global phenomenon, and Kabza has been a leading force in that movement. With powerful collaborations alongside DJ Maphorisa, Nobuhle, and recent performances in fashion hotspots like Paris Fashion Week, Kabza continues to bridge cultures through music.
Saturday’s audience in New York was a vibrant mix of loyal fans and curious newcomers, all united on the dancefloor. Kabza’s ability to connect with such a diverse crowd only solidified his status as a global ambassador for the genre.
Looking ahead, Kabza hinted that fans can expect a fresh wave of Amapiano innovation: “They can expect a high-energy set with some of their favourite songs and some underground, unreleased music from my upcoming album.”
From the streets of Mamelodi to the stages of New York, Kabza De Small is proving that the world is dancing to South Africa’s beat — and he’s the one behind the decks.
