South Africans Stream Amapiano the Most !

Amapiano reigns supreme with South Africans. According to global music streaming service, Deezer, its ‘Amapiano’ playlist is the most streamed playlist among Mzansi users this year (Jan-Sept 2020).

Since launching a dedicated ‘Amapiano’ playlist in June 2019, the proudly South African genre known for its mix of deep house, jazz and lounge music appeals the most to Jo’burg residents with 44% of streamers between 26-35 years of age. Not far behind are 18-25 year’ olds with 35% of streams.

The unique sounds of Amapiano have also exploded across the continent. We’ve seen our playlist gain momentum in Namibia, Zambia, Mozambique and Malawi. As a result of its mass appeal, artists spanning the continent are embracing this new style of house music from fresh new productions to remixes of popular tracks.

Deezer’s Music Editor for Africa, Sotiris Moldovanos said, “It’s not surprising to see Amapiano’s growing appeal locally and in neighbouring countries. It’s a unique sound that’s inspired a movement and dance culture. Our playlist celebrates the artists leading the movement as it reaches more people around the world.”

‘Amapioneers’ duo MFR Souls, who are featured in our Amapiano playlist gives us further insight into this growing trend.

1. How would you describe Amapiano’s early ‘underground’ days?             

It was hard because when we started no one understood the sound, there were a lot of critics.

2. How would you guys describe the genre?

Amapiano has early influences from Kwaito. At first, it was just instrumental with Kwaito basslines and chords. But now it’s evolved into a pure South African sound.

1. How far and wide are we seeing Amapiano influence local and even African music?

The Genre is not only going to have an impact in Africa but around the    whole world.

4.    What inspires the MFR Souls sound?

Our sound is inspired by good ‘old school’ music.

1. Which artists, (apart from you guys) do you believe have been influential in making the genre so popular?

There’s quite a lot. Kabza De Small, Gaba Cannal, Josiah De Disciple and Loxion Deep.

1. If you could collaborate with one global icon for an Amapiano remix who would it be and what song?

Burna Boy – ‘Pull Up’

1. What are your top three Amapiano songs of the moment?

• Mfr Souls ft. Bassie – Bathandwa
• De Mthuda – Umfazi we Phepha
• Mfr Souls ft. Major league Djz, Kamo Mphela & Bontle Smith – Amanikiniki

Don’t miss a beat with Deezer South Africa’s most streamed playlist of the moment. Stream 50 of the hottest Amapiano tracks from artist favourites including Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, Focalistic, Vigro Deep and more right here.