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What is Amapiano

Updated: Dec 20, 2022

Amapiano is a genre of electronic dance music that originated in South Africa. The name "amapiano" is a combination of the Zulu word for "music" and the Italian word for "piano," which refers to the genre's signature sound.


Amapiano is characterised by its fast tempo and use of repetitive, percussive beats. It is heavily influenced by kwaito and house music, and often incorporates elements of jazz and traditional South African music.




One of the defining features of amapiano is its use of the piano as the main instrument. This gives the music a distinctive, upbeat sound that is highly infectious and immediately recognizable. Amapiano tracks often feature intricate melodies and complex chord progressions, which are expertly crafted by skilled producers.


The origins of amapiano can be traced back to the mid-2000s, when a group of young producers in Johannesburg began experimenting with the genre. They were heavily influenced by kwaito and house music, and sought to create a new sound that would appeal to a younger audience.

Over the years, amapiano has grown in popularity and is now one of the most popular genres in South Africa. It is often played at parties, clubs, and festivals, and has a dedicated following of fans who are passionate about the music.


In addition to its popularity in South Africa, amapiano has also gained recognition in other parts of the world. Many international artists have begun incorporating elements of amapiano into their music, and the genre has even been featured at major music festivals outside of South Africa.


Overall, amapiano is a vibrant and exciting genre of music that continues to evolve and innovate. Its unique sound and infectious beats have made it a favorite among music lovers in South Africa and beyond. is a genre of electronic dance music that originated in South Africa. The name "amapiano" is a combination of the Zulu word for "music" and the Italian word for "piano," which refers to the genre's signature sound.

Amapiano is characterized by its fast tempo and use of repetitive, percussive beats. It is heavily influenced by kwaito and house music, and often incorporates elements of jazz and traditional South African music.



One of the defining features of amapiano is its use of the piano as the main instrument. This gives the music a distinctive, upbeat sound that is highly infectious and immediately recognizable.


Amapiano tracks often feature intricate melodies and complex chord progressions, which are expertly crafted by skilled producers.

The origins of amapiano can be traced back to the mid-2000s, when a group of young producers in Johannesburg began experimenting with the genre. They were heavily influenced by kwaito and house music, and sought to create a new sound that would appeal to a younger audience.



Over the years, amapiano has grown in popularity and is now one of the most popular genres in South Africa. It is often played at parties, clubs, and festivals, and has a dedicated following of fans who are passionate about the music.

In addition to its popularity in South Africa, amapiano has also gained recognition in other parts of the world. Many international artists have begun incorporating elements of amapiano into their music, and the genre has even been featured at major music festivals outside of South Africa.

Overall, amapiano is a vibrant and exciting genre of music that continues to evolve and innovate. Its unique sound and infectious beats have made it a favorite among music lovers in South Africa and beyond.

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