Apple Music launches global amapiano category page

Alongside this, Apple Music has also introduced three new amapiano genre charts, namely Top Songs, Top Albums, and Top Videos, allowing users to explore the biggest hits from South Africa’s hottest artists.

This move solidifies the global influence of amapiano, with the new category page showcasing top artists such as Kabza De Small, Uncle Waffles, Kelvin Momo, Aymos, Nkosazana Daughter, and TxC. The page will also feature a selection of the latest albums, singles, playlists, artist essentials, and Isgubhu cover stars.

To further enhance its amapiano offerings, Apple Music has expanded its playlist selection to include sub-genres that have emerged as the genre continues to evolve. These new playlists include New in Amapiano (featuring the latest hits), Private School Piano (a soulful exploration of the genre), Chill Yanos (focusing on the genre’s more relaxed side), Tsa Ko Pitori (highlighting amapiano’s roots), and Lamba-Piano (showcasing West Africa’s fusion with amapiano).

Additionally, the page boasts a wide selection of amapiano DJ mixes from artists like TxC, Uncle Waffles, DJ Zinhle, and Tyler ICU, as well as exclusive Spatial Audio DJ Mixes from Kabza De Small, Felo Le Tee, Myztro, De Mthuda, and DBN Gogo, recorded at events such as Spring Fiesta and Porryland.

“This finally gives us our own space to exist as a dance genre that’s new and the first of its kind,” Uncle Waffles said. “What we’re witnessing is history in the making, which will be remembered when we reach even bigger heights. It eliminates confusion about what is truly ‘piano’ and gives emerging artists more visibility.”

DJ Stokie added: “This is fantastic news for African music and the genre. It’s great to see Apple Music supporting amapiano. This will help many young and up-and-coming artists from the townships gain recognition in the industry.”

Tyler ICU said the launch of the page would provide unprecedented exposure for amapiano, introducing it to a wider global audience, while Felo Le Tee described the move as incredible, adding that it would not only globalise amapiano but also educate the world about its roots, comparing it to hip hop.