The Best songs of 2022 so far
Here are the best Amapiano songs of 2022 so far. In recent years, South African popular music has had its best years. Following the pandemic and its lockdown/travel restrictions, 2022 has been one of the years where artists have been able to reap the rewards of their efforts.
uMlando – Toss, 9umba, Mdoovar featuring Lady Du, Young Stunna, Sir Trill and Sino Msolo
Among the biggest cultural moments of 2022 has been the hook “namhla senz’ umlando”, accompanied by its accompanying dance, which involves thrusting your hips side to side. Lady Du, Young Stunna, Sir Trill, and Sino Msolo were some of the stars who joined in the social media challenge after the initial dance clip went viral. As well as elevating the careers of producers 9umba, Mdoovar and vocalist Toss, the platinum-selling hit received visual treatment that was enjoyed by fans.
Abo Mvelo – Daliwonga
Daliwonga’s “Abo Mvelo” has been a viral hit, so the song’s name was changed and the song was dropped shortly afterwards. Due to its infectious nature, the song soared to the top of the charts after it was released. The refrain of Trompies and Lebo Mathosa’s 2005 song “Magasman” is cleverly interpolated by Daliwonga on “Abo Mvelo.”
Tanzania – Uncle Waffles
Waffles has been a constant topic on social media for the past few months, and she has capitalised on the hype by releasing her own music. Her EP Red Dragon features her debut single “Tanzania.” This song has completely catapulted Waffles to stardom and has cemented her status as more than an energetic DJ.
Bafana Ke Banyana – Pabi Cooper
For her first official release under her own label, Cooper Entertainment, Pabi Cooper teamed up with Focalistic and Ch’cco for the heartwarming new single “Banyana Ke Bafana.” As always, Pabi Cooper makes her songs trend on TikTok by creating dance challenges and routines for them.
Back to back amapiano hits flooded the first half of 2022 as amapiano artists made significant strides to expand and grow the genre. Although the globalisation of ‘piano’ will not happen overnight, the sound continues to travel and make waves worldwide.
Bambelela – DBN Gogo & Felo Le TeeDBN Gogo
DBN Gogo and Felo Le Tee released “Bambelela” under her own record label Zikode Records. Felo Le Tee, Young Stunna, and Pabi Cooper are also featured on the smash hit, and it made waves on TikTok long before it dropped.
Chipi ke chipi – mellow and Sleazy
The Mellow & Sleazy duo has been on an incredible run with their own releases and bangers for others. A five-month gap separates Kwa Kwa, their debut, and Midnight in Sunnyside, their sophomore. Their latest EP features the standout track “Chipi ke Chipi.”.
Megalo – Zuma and Reece featuring Spura
Reece Madlisa & Zuma followed up their smash hit “Iy’ntsimbi ZaseEnvy” with “Megalo”, featuring Spura’s vocals. They sing about Megalo, one of the most popular restaurants and hangout spots in the city.
Kancane – Musa keys
The star power of Musa Keys continues to rise. Konke joins Chley on “Kancane,” where he performs soothing vocals alongside him. Skroef28 and Nkulee501 of PianoHub produced the song
AmaGents by Samthing Soweto
An empathetic ode to women and a call for accountability