The year has barely settled into motion, yet amapiano is already delivering hit after hit. January arrived with urgency, seamlessly taking over from a December packed with heavy releases. From packed dance floors to nonstop radio rotation, the genre continues to prove why it remains South Africa’s most dominant sound. As of writing, Sam Deep’s “Shela” is still setting dance floors alight, but several other tracks have defined January and ruled the streets.
Here are the Top 5 amapiano songs right now, the records that shaped the month and kept the culture moving.
1. Al Xapo, Benzoo & EeQue – “SNOKONOKO”
“SNOKONOKO” stands as a powerful statement piece, extending the momentum of a breakout run that refuses to cool off. With contributions from Xduppy, Al Xapo, and Optimist Music ZA, the track is polished, hard-hitting, and unmistakably amapiano. It’s the kind of song that locks the dance floor in place, commanding attention with every drop. Pure fire from start to finish.
2. Officixl RSA, Benzoo & Sizwe Alakine – “Mabalabala” (feat. Bob Mabena, Mellow & Sleazy, Mid9t)
Amapiano’s evolution is on full display here. “Mabalabala” takes a more restrained approach to the log drum, allowing the surrounding percussion to drive constant motion. With Mellow & Sleazy anchoring the sound and Bob Mabena adding depth, the result is forward-facing, energetic, and endlessly fluid.
3. Tyler ICU, XDuppy, Al Xapo, Benzoo & Optimist Music ZA – “Fada Xmas Akekho”
This track is January’s official wake-up call. Originally released on YouTube, it quickly crossed the one-million-stream mark, proving its wide appeal. Tyler ICU brings together a stacked lineup of collaborators, each adding a unique flavor that makes the song feel communal, celebratory, and perfectly timed for the new year.
4. Justin99 – “Ke Wave” (feat. Djy Vino & Xduppy)
Minimalist yet deeply textured, “Ke Wave” allows Justin99 to showcase his sound design prowess. Without relying on traditional vocals, the track flows naturally, evolving with subtle shifts and layered elements that reward attentive listening.
5. Thuli P – “Kube Kuya Ngam’” (feat. Pronic DaMuziq & Tman Xpress)
Lifted from her debut EP Avana, this track is smooth, reflective, and immersive. Thuli P’s layered production creates the perfect foundation for Tman Xpress, making it ideal for late-night drives and laid-back moments.
January has already set a high bar, and if these tracks are anything to go by, amapiano is gearing up for another unforgettable year.
