Babalwa M, affectionately known as the Queen of Private School Amapiano, has carved out a signature lane in one of the world’s fastest-growing genres. With her velvet vocals and soft, hypnotic amapiano textures, the singer — born Babalwa Mavuso — has risen from a fresh newcomer to one of the most influential voices in the movement. Her chart-topping hits Amalobolo, Pholisa, and Bo Thata have cemented her as a powerhouse whose sound embodies elegance, emotion, and authenticity.
But her journey almost looked different. Before music called her name, Babalwa saw herself in journalism. Today, she finds herself headlining major shows across the country, clinching coveted endorsements, and recently taking home Amapiano Artist of the Year at the 2025 Basadi in Music Awards. Speaking to TRUELOVE, she reveals that her growing acclaim reinforced her sense of purpose.
“The moment I realised I was on the right path was when people started calling me the ‘Queen of Private School Amapiano or Mama B’,” she shares.
“It showed me that staying true to my sound and not changing myself to fit in was exactly what the industry needed. Every time someone tells me my music healed them or inspired them, it reminds me that I have purpose.”
Her brand is one she carefully crafts — soft, refined, and deeply rooted in sophisticated amapiano. This considered artistry also guides her approach to collaborations and partnerships. Locally, she dreams of working with icons like Zolani Mahola and Thandiswa Mazwai.
“My dream features locally would be Zolani Mahola and Thandiswa Mazwai. Both of them inspire me so much, not only musically, but spiritually.
“Their voices carry truth, history, power and emotion in a way that moves people on a deeper level. I admire how their music is so timeless. I think collaborating with them would create something unforgettable for African music.” she says.
This refined identity also shapes her brand collabs, including her recent partnership with SKYY.
“My brand has always been rooted in sophistication within amapiano.”
She brings this same sophistication to her latest partnership.
She says, “I plan to bring my aesthetic and sound into the SKYY campaign by merging that soulful, private-school amapiano feel with premium lifestyle experiences. Through live performances, visuals, curated events or content, I want people to feel the elegance of amapiano while still having the freedom to enjoy themselves. It’s about creating memorable and fun moments.”
Beyond business, Babalwa is deep into crafting her next album — a project that will stretch her sonic palette while retaining her soulful amapiano essence. She’s especially excited about experimenting with three-step, the Afro-tech-infused style currently energising dance floors.
“I’m currently working on my upcoming album, which I’m really excited about.
I’ve been experimenting with new sounds while still keeping that soulful Amapiano essence that my fans know me for. I’m also experimenting more with three-step.
“After seeing the amazing love and response to Uvalo with Jazzwrld and Thukuthela, it became clear that my fans connect deeply with that style. So they can definitely expect more three-step moments on this album.”
With brand partnerships flourishing, new genres inspiring her, and an album on the horizon, Babalwa M is entering a powerful new chapter — one built on growth, grace, and unwavering artistic identity.
