With each release, Kabza de Small reminds us why he’s often referred to as the “King of Amapiano.”
His latest offering, Bab’Motha, takes things a step further, with the renowned producer and DJ pushing the boundaries, blending new energies that showcase his personal and musical growth and future intentions.
The muso unpacks the meaning behind the album, how he chose his collaborators and why Bab’Motha is one of his most emotionally honest bodies of work to date.
Kabza de Small | SUPPLIED
The album title, Bab’Motha, suggests a powerful message. What inspired you to choose this title, and what does it mean to you personally and spiritually?
Kabza de Small: Bab’Motha is a title that holds deep meaning for me. It’s about honour and recognising leadership — a guiding voice or figure of wisdom. This album continues my journey from previous projects, but it’s also a new chapter. It shows where I’m at, both musically and in my life.
You’ve been a major influence on Amapiano as a solo artist and as one half of Scorpion Kings. How does Bab’Motha show your growth or evolution?
Kabza de Small: This album shows how much I’ve grown — not just as a producer, but as a person. You can still hear the Amapiano roots, but I’ve gone deeper into the emotions and stories. My early projects helped build my sound, but Bab’Motha takes it further. It’s cleaner, more mature, and more fearless. I’m creating music that truly reflects who I am today.
Kabza de Small | SUPPLIED
You’re known for your unique production style. How did you approach the production of Bab’Motha differently from your past work?
Kabza de Small: This time, I focused more on how the music feels and sounds across different speakers. I wasn’t chasing trends. I wanted the production to match where I am right now, emotionally and creatively. Every track was made with intention. I wanted listeners to hear the depth and soul in every beat.
The tracklist features some exciting collaborations. How did you choose the artists you worked with, and how did you bring these different styles together?
Kabza de Small: I wanted to work with people who were open to trying something different — artists who didn’t mind stepping out of their comfort zones. I’ve always believed music shouldn’t be limited by genre. Every artist I featured brought their own flavour, and together we created something fresh and unexpected.
Check out “Ngyozama”:
You released Bab’Motha at a time when there’s so much music coming out. What do you think makes this album stand out?
Kabza de Small: I think what makes Bab’Motha special is the honesty. I didn’t create it to chase hits. I had something to say, and I put that into every track. People connect with music that feels real. That’s why I believe it will stand out — not because it’s loud, but because it’s true.
Amapiano is seen as more than just music — it’s a lifestyle and a movement. How does this album contribute to that?
Kabza de Small: Amapiano is about telling our stories. It’s our voice. With this album, I wanted to show that the genre can grow, that we can go deeper with it. I added new layers, new emotions, and made space for storytelling. I hope it inspires others to do the same — to respect where Amapiano started but to also take it to new places.
What do you want people to take away from Bab’Motha—whether they’re longtime Amapiano fans or just discovering your music?
Kabza de Small: I want people to feel the honesty and freedom in this album. Whether you’ve loved Amapiano from the start or you’re new to it, Bab’Motha is about growth and being true to yourself. If listeners feel something real when they hear it, then I’ve done my job.
Kabza de Small | SUPPLIED
