Top 10 Richest Amapiano Artists in South Africa (2025 Update)
Amapiano has become a major sensation both in South Africa and internationally. Initially a local style that combined kwaito, deep house, jazz, and lounge music, it has evolved into a global trend. As fame increases, so do the earnings, and in this piece, we highlight the wealthiest Amapiano artists in South Africa who are influencing the genre and making substantial money.
Based on reliable sources, we've listed the 10 wealthiest Amapiano artists in South Africa for 2025, a list that could also remain relevant into 2026, which is quite feasible.
#1. DJ Maphorisa "Madumane"– The Business-Minded Producer
Themba Sonnyboy Sekowe, known by his stage name, DJ Maphorisa, was born and raised in Pretoria, Gauteng. He is not only an Amapiano star but also one of Africa’s most successful producers. He’s worked with major international names like Drake, Wizkid, and Major Lazer. His strong business acumen and brand deals make him one of the richest artists in the game, with an estimated massive net worth of R35 million.
#2. Kabza De Small – “The King of Amapiano”
 |
| Kabza de Small |
Known as The King of Amapiano, Kabelo Petrus Motha, known by his stage name, Kabza De Small, born at eMalahleni, Mpumalanga, has built an empire through hit songs, collaborations, and sold-out tours. His album I Am The King of Amapiano: Sweet & Dust made waves globally. With endorsement deals, royalties, and constant streaming revenue, Kabza’s estimated net worth is around R30 million.
Prominent achievements are:
-
Being one of the founders of the Scorpion Kings duo with DJ Maphorisa
-
Winning multiple SA Music Awards winner
-
International performances and sponsorships
#3. Young Stunna – SA's Rising Star
 |
| Young Stunna |
Sandile Fortune Msimango, known mostly by his stage name, Young Stunna, was born in Daveyton, Gauteng. His rise was meteoric after his hit Adiwele topped charts across Africa. At just a few years in the industry, he’s already earning millions from tours and endorsements. Estimated net worth: R8 million.
#4. Focalistic – The Pitori Superstar "Maradona"
 |
| Focalistic |
Known both locally and internationally by his stage name Focalistic, Lethabo Sebetso was born in Pretoria, Gauteng. He has made headlines when he performed at global stages like the BET Awards and collaborated with international artists such as Davido. With brand partnerships and digital streams, he’s estimated to be worth R12 million.
#5. Major League DJz – The Global Twins
 |
| Major League DJz |
The twin duo Banele and Bandile Mbere, born in Boston, USA and raised in South Africa, have taken Amapiano international, performing at festivals across Europe and the U.S. Their YouTube channel (Balcony Mix) live mixes and brand collaborations earn them around R15 million combined.
#6. Uncle Waffles – The Amapiano Queen
 |
| Uncle Waffles |
Lungelihle Zwane was born in Swaziland (Eswatini). Many know her as Uncle Waffles, who became an internet sensation and one of South Africa’s biggest exports. She’s landed endorsement deals with brands like KFC and Cîroc and performs worldwide. Estimated net worth: R10 million.
#7. Daliwonga "uDaliDali"– The Smooth Vocalist
 |
| Daliwonga |
Born and raised in Soweto, Gauteng, he also uses his real name as his stage name. Daliwonga Matiwane’s smooth vocals have graced some of Amapiano’s biggest hits. With royalties and performances, his estimated worth sits around R7 million.
#8. Musa Keys – The Stylish Hitmaker
 |
| Musa Keys |
Musa Appreciate Makamu, known for his style and charisma, was born in Giyani, Limpopo. Musa Keys has captured fans globally. He’s one of the few Amapiano artists touring Europe and Africa regularly. Net worth of R9 million.
#9. DJ Stokie – The Veteran Producer
 |
| Dj Stokie |
Setoki Mbatha, popularly known by his stage name DJ Stokie, was born in Mzimhlophe, Soweto, Gauteng. His distinctive deep Amapiano sound and enduring presence in the music industry have earned him widespread respect. With a combination of performances, brand partnerships, and production credits, his net worth is estimated to be around R6 million.
#10. Maphorisa and Kabza's Collaborative Brand: Scorpion Kings Duo.
 |
Scorpion Kings |
Although both artists are mentioned separately, their joint projects merit recognition. The Scorpion Kings brand has generated millions through streaming, sold-out tours, and sponsorships.
The Business of Amapiano Overview
Amapiano's rise to prominence highlights the flourishing South African music industry. Artists are increasingly generating revenue through various channels, including streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube; live performances both locally and internationally; collaborations with brands and sponsorship deals; as well as merchandising and digital content production.
Key Takeaway
Amapiano is more than just a music genre; it’s a movement. These artists have transformed their passion into wealth, inspiring a new generation of musicians and producers. As the sound continues to evolve globally, the success of South Africa’s top Amapiano stars will also grow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who is the richest Amapiano artist in 2025?
A: DJ Maphorisa currently leads with an estimated net worth of around R35 million.
Q: Who is the Queen of Amapiano?
A: Uncle Waffles holds that title for her massive global impact.
Q: Which Amapiano artist performs internationally the most?
A: Major League DJz and Uncle Waffles have toured across Europe, the U.S., and Africa.
Q: How do Amapiano artists make money?
A: Through streaming revenue, brand deals, live gigs, and merchandise.
Q: Is Amapiano still popular in 2025?
A: Yes, Amapiano continues to dominate African and global charts, gaining fans worldwide, and it's plausible that it will dominate beyond the coming years.-
Comments
Post a Comment