South African multiplatinum-selling artist and Amapiano heavyweight Mr JazziQ is set to bring the energy of the streets into Amapiano with his upcoming single “Katalia”. The highly anticipated record brings together Mr JazziQ, Thesiix, Don Deeya, Magwe and Shazz RSA for an exciting collaboration released through ONErpm.
“Katalia” is built around a playful concept inspired by a woman named Katalia, a figure who is known, loved and recognised in the streets. The concept, however, goes beyond a person, extending into South Africa’s vibrant stance car culture, where a standout modified vehicle can also be referred to as a “Katalia”.
For Mr JazziQ, the song represents another opportunity to explore Amapiano beyond its traditional dancefloor identity. Having played an important role in the genre’s formative years through JazziDisciples before establishing a successful solo career, the producer continues to connect music with culture, lifestyle and identity.
At the heart of “Katalia” is Bujwa, the Amapiano subgenre pioneered by Thesiix. This gives the track a distinctive rhythmic character while allowing the collaborators to move away from the more familiar Amapiano formula.
The record was inspired by “Macarena” by Los Del Rio. Don Deeya heard the iconic melody following Spain’s World Cup victory and began thinking about how the idea could be reimagined through a South African lens. The result is a creative interpretation that takes a familiar melody and gives it a distinctly local identity.
“‘KATALIA’ is about the streets and the energy around them. The idea started with this girl who is known and loved in the streets, and then we connected that idea to the stance car culture,” Mr JazziQ explains.
The collaboration also represents several firsts for the artists involved. Don Deeya will release his first record featuring a female artist, while Shazz RSA makes her debut in released Bujwa music. Thesiix also marks his first Bujwa release featuring a female vocalist, while “Katalia” becomes Mr JazziQ’s first Bujwa release.
The track came together naturally in the studio, with Don Deeya developing the hook before Magwe joined the record. Shazz RSA later added a softer vocal texture that helped shape the final sound.
“Katalia” will also connect directly with Stance Social, Mr JazziQ’s event celebrating stance cars and their surrounding culture. The next edition is scheduled for Johannesburg on 7 November 2026.
With its fusion of Bujwa, Amapiano and street culture, “Katalia” promises to be another bold addition to Mr JazziQ’s growing catalogue.
Pre-save “Katalia” HERE.
