Apple Music has unveiled its much-awaited Replay ’25 experience, providing fans with a more in-depth and customized overview of their musical journey over the past year. This report offers enhanced insights into music discovery, showcasing the artists who have significantly influenced listener preferences and dominated the streaming landscape in 2025.
In addition to global stars like Drake and Chris Brown, Amapiano continues its impressive ascent, as three South African artists occupy top spots on the national charts. According to Apple Music’s Top Artists of 2025: South Africa, the standout Amapiano artists this year are:
1. Kelvin Momo
Kelvin Momo has carved out a significant niche in soulful Amapiano, recognized for his distinctive “Private School Amapiano” style, which features rich chords, deep rhythms, and heartfelt melodies. His journey from being an underground favorite to a mainstream figure is noteworthy.
His high rankings on Apple Music reflect how his production style has resonated with audiences, merging musical artistry with the rhythmic heart of Amapiano. In 2025, he continues to lead the genre’s evolution with chart-topping projects that spark viral trends and inspire new producers.
2. Kabza De Small
Revered as the “King of Amapiano,” Kabza De Small consistently ranks among South Africa’s most streamed artists, and 2025 continues this legacy. His influence is evident both in his solo endeavors and collaborations, making him a staple in playlists, club performances, and radio airwaves.
His inclusion in Apple Music’s top artist list underscores his continuous impact on Amapiano’s development—from log drum sounds to lush instrumentals—and his role in enhancing the genre’s international appeal.
3. DJ Maphorisa
As part of the acclaimed Scorpion Kings duo with Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa maintains a significant presence in South African music. His adaptability, creativity, and skill in blending Amapiano with Afrobeats, house, and hip-hop keep him at the forefront of the music scene.
In 2025, he continues to release successful tracks that gain international attention, forge global collaborations, and reinforce Amapiano’s status on the world stage. His place among Apple Music’s top artists highlights his ongoing influence in the genre.
The recognition of Kelvin Momo, Kabza De Small, and DJ Maphorisa in Apple Music’s Top Artists of 2025: South Africa list—alongside global stars like Drake and Chris Brown—illustrates the integral role Amapiano plays in shaping the country’s musical landscape and its international presence.
Apple Music’s Replay ’25 experience not only highlights listeners’ preferences but also emphasizes the genre’s wide-reaching influence and cultural significance.
Amapiano has established itself as more than a passing trend—it represents a sound that shapes the world, with these three artists at the forefront of its future.
