Kabza De Small is further establishing his reputation as a key figure in South Africa’s music scene after achieving another significant accolade at the South African Music Awards (SAMAs). The Amapiano innovator, along with the renowned vocalist and songwriter Mthunzi, received the Highest Played Composer Award for their widely praised joint album, Isimo.
Released in 2023, Isimo has emerged as a remarkable work, maintaining its impact well beyond its initial launch. As of 2025, the album still enjoys significant airtime on radio stations and streaming services, demonstrating its enduring appeal among audiences. Winning the Highest Played Composer Award serves as a strong acknowledgment of the project’s lasting influence and the duo’s notable skills in songwriting and production.
Kabza De Small, commonly called the “King of Amapiano,” is known for producing music that carries both spiritual depth and innovative sounds. With Isimo, he and Mthunzi crafted a project that combined heartfelt narratives with rich, emotive soundscapes, distinguishing it from many other releases of that year. The album’s capacity to resonate with listeners long after its launch reflects the sincerity and authenticity of its creation.
The role of Mthunzi in Isimo was crucial. Renowned for his moving vocals and thoughtful songwriting, he infused the work with emotional gravity and lyrical substance that enhanced Kabza’s expert production. Their collaboration resulted in an album that felt genuine, restorative, and down-to-earth—traits that consistently draw in new listeners while keeping loyal fans engaged.
The Highest Played Composer Award not only acknowledges popularity but also sustained interaction and influence. For Isimo to receive this recognition years after its debut underscores both the quality of the music and the connection it has forged with its audience. This honor also reinforces Kabza De Small’s remarkable talent for producing music that transcends fleeting trends and retains its significance over time.
This recent achievement at the SAMAs adds to Kabza De Small’s already extensive list of awards, solidifying his status in the South African music industry. This outcome is not unexpected for fans and fellow artists alike—Isimo has served as the backdrop for numerous lives, and its ongoing success affirms that exceptional music remains timeless.
As Kabza De Small and Mthunzi commemorate this achievement, it is evident that their collaboration on Isimo is not only award-winning but also historic.
