In very recent years, Amapiano, also known as “the piano,” has experienced an extraordinary surge in popularity, propelling it to become one of the most influential cultural phenomena in modern-day Africa.
Originating as a music subgenre, Amapiano emerged as a result of experimental tinkering and collaboration among exceptionally gifted musicians in the slums of South Africa. These talented individuals, often referred to as “slumdog musical minds,” embarked on a journey of sonic exploration, blending various musical elements to create a unique sound that would captivate audiences far and wide.
@princessjoan75456 Comment when you see your flag 🇬🇭🇳🇬🇿🇦🇧🇫🇨🇲🇨🇮🇸🇳🇹🇬🇬🇲🇸🇱🇰🇪🇷🇼🇸🇴🇸🇩🇲🇬🇨🇬🇿🇼🇺🇬🇦🇴🇪🇹🇬🇳🇹🇿 #amapiano ♬ original sound – DJ Phaphane
The sub-genre began to make its presence felt in South Africa around 2012, although it initially gained traction at a relatively gradual pace. It took time for Amapiano to permeate the music scene and carve out its niche among the diverse sounds that already existed in the country.
However, it wasn’t until the COVID/post-COVID era that Amapiano truly came into its own and garnered widespread acceptance and recognition. The global pandemic and its subsequent aftermath played a significant role in shaping the trajectory of this musical phenomenon. During a time of uncertainty and upheaval, people sought solace in music and sought out new sounds to uplift their spirits. Amapiano, with its infectious beats, catchy melodies, and soulful undertones, provided the perfect soundtrack for individuals seeking an escape from the challenges of the world.
As the subgenre gained momentum, it transcended geographical boundaries and reached far beyond the borders of South Africa. Its irresistible rhythm and its fusion of house, jazz, and traditional African music elements resonated with listeners across the continent and beyond. The genre’s appeal extended to both the younger generation, who embraced it as a form of self-expression and cultural identity, and older generations, who recognized the rich musical heritage and innovation within the sub-genre.
@nick.khumalo #zotata #10xguluva #pcee #kilimanjaro #fyp #fypdongggggggg #trending ♬ original sound – 10x Guluva
Amapiano has not only become a dominant force in the African music landscape but has also influenced other genres and artistic expressions. It has inspired collaborations between renowned artists, introduced fresh talent to the forefront, and sparked a vibrant dance culture that celebrates the genre’s rhythmic complexity. The sub-genres impact on fashion, language, and social gatherings has been equally significant, solidifying its position as a cultural force that goes beyond just music.
South African musical artists such as Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, MDU, and Oskido each often get a slice of the lion’s share whenever pioneering arguments steer up.
Amapiano’s ingenious fusion of South African Kwaito, Western jazz, soul, house, and lounge music, along with distinctive percussive basslines, has taken the world by storm. Its infectious and melodious log-drum spiralled tunes can be heard in various settings, from lively clubs and music festivals to car sound systems and everyday life. Amapiano’s broad appeal and accessibility through digital platforms have enabled its global reach, captivating listeners worldwide and leaving an indelible mark on the contemporary music landscape.
Today, Amapiano has become ubiquitous, finding its place in various venues such as Clubhouses, Pubs, Spas, Music Concerts/Festivals, Weekend Soirees, Online Media, and many more. Its presence can be felt and heard across diverse settings, catering to the musical preferences of a wide range of audiences.
The sub-genre has experienced unprecedented success, accumulating billions of streams across different platforms, further expanding its influence. This remarkable achievement highlights the global appeal and popularity of Amapiano, transcending geographical boundaries and captivating listeners from all walks of life.
While Amapiano originated in South Africa, it has gained acceptance and recognition from continental rivals in nations such as Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana, and Malawi, among others. These countries have embraced the genre with open arms, even giving rise to localized variations such as Ojapiano and Kolapiano, which infuse their unique musical flavours while still paying homage to the Amapiano roots.
@kceebadman #ojapiano is here and here to stay Let’s goo🔥 #newmusic #kceeojapiano #ojapianochallenge #fyp #viral #trending ♬ Ojapiano – Kcee
Moreover, Amapiano has made significant inroads in American and European countries, thanks to the influential power of the internet. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have played a pivotal role in propelling Amapiano’s popularity overseas. The infectious beats and catchy melodies have found their way into viral challenges, dance routines, and social media trends, introducing the genre to a vast international audience.
Beyond being a mere arrangement of sounds, Amapiano is revealing itself to be a cultural force, gradually and subtly weaving its way into the fabric of society. It acts as a unifying factor, bringing people together under its broad umbrella, and transcending language barriers and cultural differences. Amapiano has become more than just music; it has become a cultural binder, solidifying its position as a dominant force in the contemporary soundscape, both in the present and in the days to come.
Here are a few reasons why amapiano is the future;
Gender Inclusivity
Amapiano is first and foremost a disk jockey-ridden musical style, before anything else. One forward-thinking aspect of the sonic niche is how it doesn’t allow for marginalization amongst DJs.
Female disk jockeys like Dbn Gogo, Uncle Waffles, Lady Du, Thando Thabethe, and Dineo Ranaka thrive respectively, each creating remarkable landmarks in the process- for instance, Waffles’ pioneering disk jockey residency gig at BBC Radio 1 in 2022, and Dbn Gogo’s Spotify Global Equal program gig in 2021.
@0510.nws Uncle Waffles, The International Marathon Female DJ Set Waves At One Of The Biggest Music Festival, Coachella This Year April 14th & 21st. @uncle.waffles @coachella #amapiano #unclewaffles #0510nws #southafrica #coachella #amapianodance #coachella2023 ♬ Tobetsa – Myztro & ShaunMusiQ & Ftears
Gender inclusivity is a pro-futuristic concept that delves away from the archaic norms of society, and Amapiano is an Edm (electronic dance music) hybrid that leaves space for superstars of all gender, tribe, and colours making it highly sustainable in the future.
EDM Influence
Amapiano is derived from Kwaito, a local subset of House Music, which later falls under the umbrella of Electronic Dance Music, abbreviated as EDM.
The typical four-on-the-floor pattern beats that characterise EDM may also be heard (though sometimes minimally) in Amapiano music, giving foreign listeners that recognisable ring to it, whether listeners are passively aware or pro-actively aware.
The elemental/robotic synthesisers of electronic dance music are also well-known plug-ins in the Amapiano World.
EDM is sometimes classified as an advanced Western auditory genre that is exclusively set on constant evolution, emphasising its durability.
Amapiano, because of its association with EDM, can only rise from its current apex, especially given the widespread acceptance of its trademark log-drum-ridden mood.
The Sound Of A Younger Generation
Young Africans, both at home and in the diaspora, are captivated by the log-drum-based sound, particularly those aged 25 and under.
Their affection for Amapiano displays itself in the form of dynamic online dance challenges and trends, with social media apps like Tik Tok leading the charge.
@xebokazi Kilimanjaro 🥲❤️#viralfanpage #viralvideos #fypシ #hyp ♬ Kilimanjaro (feat. Justin99, Mema_Percent & Mr JazziQ) – Pcee & S'gija Disciples & Zan'Ten
Amapiano has seamlessly intertwined itself with the vibrant cultural lifestyle of numerous teenagers and young adults across Africa today. The correlation between this music genre and the online/offline activities of the youth is undeniable. A quick glimpse into a typical gathering of Gen-Zers, characterized by a carefree and pleasure-seeking atmosphere, reveals the pervasive presence of Amapiano tunes resonating from one playlist to another. Similarly, when observing the background music accompanying the content of an average social media influencer, the choice of Amapiano tracks serves as a fitting backdrop, providing an apt representation of the current cultural zeitgeist.
In conclusion, Amapiano has firmly established itself in the music landscape and shows no signs of fading away. Its meteoric rise in popularity is a testament to the dedicated efforts and passion of countless artists and creators. Amapiano is the result of extensive labour and an outpouring of love, merging the Pan-African socio-cultural spirit with Western musical influences and innovative internet practices. This unique blend has given birth to a sound that is perfectly attuned to the current social and cultural climate while also paving the way for the future. Amapiano’s infectious rhythms, soulful melodies, and dance-inducing beats have resonated with audiences worldwide, transcending borders and cultural barriers. Its ability to seamlessly merge different musical elements and adapt to changing trends is a testament to its versatility and longevity. As Amapiano continues to evolve and inspire, it will undoubtedly remain a significant force in shaping the musical landscape of both the present and the foreseeable future.
