Rising Stars in the Amapiano Genre: South Africa’s New Musical Trailblazers in 2025

South Africa’s vibrant music scene continues to flourish in 2025 with the Amapiano genre dominating local and international airwaves. Amapiano—a slick blend of deep house, jazz, and lounge music, characterised by smooth piano melodies and infectious rhythmic basslines—is evolving rapidly, driven by a fresh generation of talented artists pushing the genre’s boundaries. These rising stars combine unique styles, memorable vocals, and innovative production techniques that are captivating fans across Africa and the globe.

Zee Nxumalo

Zee Nxumalo has quickly ascended as one of Amapiano’s most compelling voices. Her heartfelt vocals and relatable lyrical themes have resonated widely, especially since the success of her 2024 hit “Thula Mabotha.” Zee’s ability to weave soulful emotion into contemporary rhythms has earned her a loyal following, and she continues to build anticipation with forthcoming projects that promise to showcase her artistic growth.

Scotts Maphuma

Known for his dynamic performances and distinct vocal timbre, Scotts Maphuma made big waves with his feature on the 2024 smash hit “Biri Marung.” His energetic stage presence and the infectious dance movement named after him—the “Scotts Maphuma” dance—cement his reputation as a breakout star. With a blend of streetwise swagger and vocal finesse, Scotts stands poised to dominate the charts throughout 2025.

LeeMcKrazy

LeeMcKrazy’s production style is a signature mix of pulsating beats and piano-driven grooves that retain the genre’s soulful core while pushing creative boundaries. His electrifying live shows have become a staple of the Amapiano festival circuit, and fans eagerly anticipate his new releases, which consistently contribute fresh soundscapes to the genre.

Shakes & Les

The production duo Shakes & Les have proven their versatility with two standout releases in 2024: the danceable EP Funk Series and the soulful album Mkhaya. Their ability to blend party-friendly beats with emotive melodies has made them one of South Africa’s most exciting collaborative acts. Their growth in popularity is supported by impressive streaming numbers and a growing international fan base.

Tycoon

Tycoon burst onto the scene with his 2024 anthem “Iza Mawala,” a track celebrated for its infectious rhythm and vibrant energy. As a rising artist, Tycoon has quickly caught the attention of Amapiano enthusiasts and critics alike. His youthful charisma and potential for crafting memorable club bangers make him a key artist to watch in the coming year.

Amapiano’s influence has crossed South Africa’s borders to become an international sensation, especially across Africa where artists blend it with Afrobeats and other local styles. Nigerian artists like Ayo Maff and Tml Vibez have embraced Amapiano, creating exciting cross-continental collaborations.

DJ Maphorisa, a veteran and pioneer of the genre, continues to showcase rising talent on his tracks, featuring stars like Blxckie, Scotts Maphuma, and Leemckrazy, helping elevate new voices alongside established names.

The Future of Amapiano

These rising stars bring fresh perspectives and innovative sounds, ensuring 2025 will be pivotal for Amapiano’s continued global ascendancy. With streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music reporting millions of streams for these artists, and energetic live performances drawing eagerly-awaiting crowds, Amapiano is solidifying its place as a cultural phenomenon.

The genre’s ability to blend deep roots in South African township culture with contemporary electronic music trends has not only captured dance floors but also brought a new generation closer to their heritage in a modern way.

From Zee Nxumalo’s soulful ballads to LeeMcKrazy’s pulse-pounding beats, the rising stars of Amapiano represent a dynamic and exciting chapter in South African music. Their creative energy is pushing the genre forward, inspiring both fans and fellow musicians. In 2025, as these artists release new music, perform in major venues, and collaborate across borders, they are not just shaping the future of Amapiano—they are defining the sound of a generation.

South Africa’s music lovers can look forward to a year full of exhilarating tracks, vibrant rhythms, and unforgettable performances from this talented group of artists.