Kabza De Small: The Evolution of a Modern South African Entertainment Powerhouse

Entertainment Editorial

Kabza De Small, born Kabelo Petrus Motha on 27 November 1992, is a South African DJ, record producer, songwriter, and entrepreneur. Widely regarded as the "King of Amapiano", he has played a defining role in taking Amapiano from South African townships to a global audience through his innovative production style, collaborations, and live performances.

Published: August 07, 2026 | Entertainment Desk

Personal Information

Career Overview

Kabza De Small started his DJ career in 2009 before releasing his debut album, Avenue Sounds, in 2016. His breakthrough came in 2018 with the hit songs Umshove and Amabele Shaya, which helped define the emerging Amapiano sound.

His collaboration with DJ Maphorisa led to the formation of the Scorpion Kings, one of Africa's most successful music duos. Together they released several platinum-selling projects including Scorpion Kings, The Return of Scorpion Kings, Once Upon A Time In Lockdown, and Scorpion Kings Live.

Kabza has collaborated with numerous African stars including:

• DJ Maphorisa
• Tresor
• Ami Faku
• Young Stunna
• Mthunzi
• Tyler ICU
• Sha Sha
• Leehleza
• Nkulee501
• Njelic
• Daliwonga

Musical Style

Kabza De Small's signature production blends soulful piano melodies, deep house rhythms, jazz influences, and the iconic Amapiano log drum. His productions are known for their emotional atmosphere, extended instrumental arrangements, and polished sound engineering.

Major Albums

• Avenue Sounds (2016)
• Pretty Girls Love Amapiano (2019)
• Scorpion Kings (2019)
• The Return of Scorpion Kings (2019)
• I Am The King Of Amapiano: Sweet & Dust (2021)
• Rumble In The Jungle (with DJ Maphorisa & Tresor)
• KOA II Part 1
• Isimo (with Mthunzi)

Major Achievements

• Recognized globally as one of the pioneers of Amapiano.
• More than 13 South African Music Awards (SAMAs).
• Winner of multiple Metro FM Music Awards.
• Winner of Mzansi Viewers' Choice Awards including Favorite DJ.
• Multiple AmaPiano Music Awards recipient.
• Ranked in Forbes Africa 30 Under 30.
• Most-streamed South African artist on Spotify during 2020.
• Several platinum and multi-platinum certified albums and singles.
• Founded PianoHub, helping develop emerging Amapiano artists.
• Performed internationally across Africa, Europe, North America, and the Middle East.

Legacy

Kabza De Small is considered one of the most influential African music producers of his generation. His work has helped establish Amapiano as one of the fastest growing music genres globally, inspiring countless producers and musicians. Through innovative production, collaborations, and mentorship, he continues to shape the future of South African dance music.

Selected Hit Songs

• Umshove
• Amabele Shaya
• Abalele
• Sponono
• eMcimbini
• Adiwele (Producer)
• Asibe Happy
• Nkulunkulu
• Koko
• iLog Drum

Sources

Also Read: Black Coffee

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