Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kabelo Petrus Motha |
| Stage Name | Kabza De Small |
| Date of Birth | 27 November 1992 (54 years) |
| Place of Birth | uMzimkhulu, Mpumalanga, South Africa |
| Education | Attended high school in Pretoria |
| Spouse | Kamogelo Moropa |
| Occupation | Musician, Producer |
| Genres | Amapiano, House |
| Notable Albums | Avenuee Sound, The Return of Scorpion Kings, I Am the King of Amapiano: Sweet & Dust, KOA II Part 1 |
| Record Label | PianoHub |
| Awards | 2021 Best Amapiano Music Producer, 2024 Metro FM Music Awards: Best Produced Album, Best Collaboration, Best Amapiano, Song of the Year |
Biography
Early Life and Education
Kabelo Petrus Motha, widely known by his stage name Kabza De Small, was born on November 27, 1992, in the rural town of uMzimkhulu, located in Mpumalanga, South Africa. Raised in a region known for its rich cultural heritage, Kabza’s early years were marked by his family’s move to Pretoria. There, he attended high school, where he discovered a deep passion for music.
Musical Beginnings
Kabza De Small’s journey into music began in 2009 when he signed a recording contract with Tyrique de Bruyne. Despite his academic studies suffering due to his intense focus on music, his dedication to developing his musical talent became apparent. His debut album, Avenuee Sound, was released in 2016 under Bestbyfar Records, marking the start of his rise in the South African music industry.
Rise to Fame
In 2018, Kabza De Small established his own record label, PianoHub, which became a significant platform for his creative output. His collaboration with South African artist Leehleza on the track “Umshove” became a breakthrough hit, solidifying his place in the Amapiano genre.
Notable Releases
Kabza De Small’s partnership with DJ Maphorisa led to the release of Piano Hub on October 1. Their joint effort The Return of Scorpion Kings, released on November 29, 2019, was a major success, with the album being certified 3-platinum in South Africa. The planned Scorpion King Live concert, initially scheduled for April 11, 2020, was postponed to August 9 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In June 2020, Kabza De Small released I Am the King of Amapiano: Sweet & Dust, which went double platinum in South Africa. The album’s success was further highlighted by Kabza being recognized as the most streamed South African singer by Spotify in December 2020.
In early 2021, he announced the collaborative studio album Rumble in the Jungle with DJ Maphorisa and Tresor. This was followed by notable singles, including “Abalele” featuring Ami Faku, which topped the South African music charts.
Recent Projects and Achievements
Kabza De Small continued his momentum with the announcement of his album KOA II Part 1 in early January 2022. The EP “Ziwangale,” released on April 22, 2022, featured multiple successful singles, including “Ziwa Ngale,” which topped the South African iTunes music charts.
On June 16, 2022, KOA II Part 1 was officially released and debuted at number 11 on the iTunes top 100 list. The single “Khusela” achieved the top spot on the Apple Music charts.
Awards and Recognition
Kabza De Small’s contribution to the Amapiano genre has been widely recognized. At the 2021 South African Amapiano Music Awards, he was nominated for Amapiano Album of the Year and Best Amapiano Collaboration. He won the Best Amapiano Music Producer award. At the 18th Metro FM Music Awards in April 2024, he scooped four awards, including Best Produced Album, Best Collaboration, Best Amapiano, and Song of the Year.
Personal Life
Kabza De Small is married to Kamogelo Moropa. Despite his demanding career, he maintains a private family life, balancing his professional achievements with his personal commitments.
Legacy
Kabza De Small is recognized as one of the leading figures in the Amapiano music genre, known for his innovative sound and influential contributions to South African music. His journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming a prominent musician reflects his talent, hard work, and dedication to his craft.
