DJ Maphorisa credits Wizkid for sparking his Amapiano journey
DJ Maphorisa reveals how he embraced the Amapiano genre.
In a recent interview with BBC News Africa, South African music star DJ Maphorisa shared how he got into the Amapiano sound, crediting Nigerian artist Wizkid for inspiring him.
At the time, Phori had just left Kalawa Jazmee, where he had gained significant experience and explored genres like Afrobeats and Afrohouse.
During Wizkid’s visit to South Africa, the two visited Pretoria, where Phori performed a set.
After his performance, a resident DJ took over, playing Amapiano tracks. Phori noted how much Wizkid enjoyed the music and even asked questions about the sound.
Seeing Wizkid’s enthusiasm for the genre, DJ Maphorisa decided to delve into it.
Today, DJ Maphorisa is one of the leading figures in Amapiano and has played a pivotal role in taking the once-underground genre to a global audience.
DJ Maphorisa is one of South Africa’s biggest players in the Amapiano scene, as a producer, DJ, musician and label owner.
Here he breaks down to DJ Edu which Afrobeats star got him into the then underground scene and how’s he helped make the music go global. pic.twitter.com/tOdaIuTzPK
— BBC News Africa (@BBCAfrica) January 12, 2025
