South African music commentator and industry figure Nota Baloyi has once again stirred conversation with his outspoken views, this time on the Piano Pulse podcast, part of the Podcast and Chill network. Filling in as host for Sfiso, Nota delivered a fiery episode that dissected the state of the music industry, from artist branding to the disruptive potential of AI-generated music.
But the highlight of the discussion came when Nota turned his attention to amapiano heavyweight DJ Maphorisa, whom he hailed as the true “father of amapiano.” With characteristic bluntness, Nota argued that many of the genre’s biggest stars owe their success to Maphorisa’s mentorship, vision, and relentless work ethic.
“There’s no Kabza without Phori,” Nota declared, stressing that Kabza De Small’s rise and the careers of artists like Focalistic were made possible by Maphorisa’s leadership. He credited Phori not only for shaping amapiano but also for revitalising established acts like Mafikizolo and even teaching global stars like Wizkid how to elevate their craft.
Sharing a personal anecdote, Nota revealed just how much Maphorisa has impacted his own life. “I drive two Benzes because of Phori. He changed my life,” he said, underlining the producer’s generosity and influence beyond music.
In the same breath, Nota criticised young artists for dismissing mentorship, a trend he believes threatens the growth of the industry. He specifically called out amapiano star Young Stunna for referring to Kabza De Small as his “pops,” insisting that the true patriarch of the movement is Maphorisa. “All of them are Phori’s sons,” Nota said, reinforcing his point that respect for pioneers is non-negotiable in sustaining cultural movements.
The podcast episode also sparked intrigue when Nota jokingly claimed that an AI-generated artist had topped the charts, using the prank to highlight how technology could soon challenge traditional music creators. His remarks added urgency to an ongoing debate about safeguarding the authenticity of genres like amapiano in the digital age.
Fans flooded social media with reactions, many praising Nota for “schooling the kids” on respecting amapiano’s origins.
For Nota, one truth was clear: DJ Maphorisa remains the cornerstone of amapiano, a genre that has taken the world by storm.
