SA: MTV Base to launch amapiano music documentary

The documentary will air every Tuesday from 24 September at 9pm CAT on MTV Base (DStv channel 322). Titled Behind the Amapiano Movement, the documentary will unpack the story behind the genre and entertain audiences on the origins and insights of the amapiano movement and lifestyle.

It features views from such artists as amapiano DJ and producer Kabza De Small, DJ duo Major League, Lady Zamar, DJ Zinhle, DJ Vinny Da Vinci and ‘Shesha Geza’ hitmakers De Mthuda & Njelic.

“Every once in a while, a sub-genre will take over the music scene and that time is now for amapiano," DJ Vinny Da Vinci said.

Metro FM DJ Mo Flava weighed in: “Most of the stuff they sing about mirrors society.”

Vice president for youth, music and BET at Viacom International Media Networks Africa, Monde Twala said: “MTV Base is all about culture, music and the streets. We offer content that is relevant, fun, bold and contributes to stimulating conversation. MTV Base led with Gqom Nation and now leaps ahead with the Behind the amapiano Movement. We continue to champion talent, music and street culture for lovers of music and dance. The new wave is here to entertain and showcase the freshest sound taking Mzansi by storm.”

There is an ongoing debate on the origins of amapiano with DJ’s, producers and music promoters from biggest townships like Soweto, Pretoria, East Rand and Alexandra, claiming to be the inventors of the genre.

“Does is matter whether amapiano comes from Pretoria, Soweto, Alexandra or the East Rand?” MTV Base said. “The fact is, amapiano has taken South African streets, clubs, parties and social media by storm. We have seen the evolution of Mzansi’s music, from bubble gum, disco, kwaito to Gqom. Will Amapiano fizzle out when the next hungry and pragmatic generation come up with a next creative sound and will it lead to another redefining cultural movement?”