South Africa’s Amapiano maestro Kabza De Small (Kabelo Motha) has dropped his long-awaited third solo album, Bab’Motha, today (18 July 2025), marking a bold new chapter in his storied career. With 16 curated tracks spanning 1 hour and 49 minutes, the album is released via Piano Hub Records under the global distribution of Sony Music Africa.
The Build-Up: Anticipation & Teasers
Fans first caught wind of Bab’Motha back in April when Kabza teased the release, simply captioning his announcement: “Bab’Motha dropping June” on Instagram. Social media immediately exploded, with supporters proclaiming:
“Now it’s going down. Finally! The best album in the history of South African music will be released kaJune.”
In the weeks that followed, a steady stream of previews dropped — the vocal-rich single “Kabza Chant 2.0” featuring Nobuhle, Nkosazana Daughter & Sykes, and snippets via Instagram Lives teased upcoming B-sides, including collaborations with Thatohatsi.
What the Album Holds
16 Tracks of Amapiano Innovation
The tracklist is already live on Apple Music, showcasing guest features from Young Stunna, Mthunzi, MDU aka TRP, DJ Maphorisa, Murumba Pitch, Tshego AMG, Soa Mattrix, and more.
Sonic Evolution: Amapiano Meets Sgidongo
Kabza ventures into new territory by blending his signature “private‑school” Amapiano and soulful piano craftsmanship with the raw, percussive edge of Sgidongo — a rising sub‑genre.
Powerful Preview Cuts
Led by “Kabza Chant 2.0,” the album is set to balance lush synths, deep log‑drums, and layered vocal dynamics while leaning into rougher rhythmic textures — an evolution fans have been calling for.
Why This Matters
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Crowned King of Amapiano: With multiple SAMAs, Metro FM Awards, and a spot on Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30, Kabza’s reign in the genre is undisputed.
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Global & Local Buzz: Industry outlets have pegged Bab’Motha as either a career-defining masterpiece or “the classic fans have been waiting for.
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Creative Ambition: Kabza isn’t just delivering hits — he’s stretching the boundaries of Amapiano, championing its future by embracing fresh sub-genres and rising talent.
Standout Tracks to Watch
Outlined in the pre-release tracklist:
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Kabza Chant 2.0 (feat. Nobuhle, Nkosazana Daughter, Sykes)
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Ngyozama (feat. Sykes, Young Stunna, Thatohatsi)
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Abalozi (feat. Sykes, Mnqobi Yazo & DJ Maphorisa)
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Siyabonga (feat. Nontokozo Mkhize & Mthunzi)
…and more highlights such as the Sgidongo-leaning interludes interwoven throughout.
Final Take
Bab’Motha is a testament to Kabza De Small’s artistic evolution — a thoughtful blend of powerful vocals, experimental soundscapes, and the infectious groove that defines Amapiano. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the genre, this album serves as both a celebration and a progression — a reminder that the King of Amapiano is far from resting on his crown.
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