Hey guys! Ready to dive into the hottest Amapiano tracks that absolutely crushed it in 2023? This year has been incredible for Amapiano, with so many bangers dropping left and right. If you're new to the genre, get ready for infectious rhythms, soulful vocals, and grooves that'll make you want to dance non-stop. For the Amapiano aficionados, prepare to nod in agreement (or maybe discover a new favorite). Let's get into it!

What is Amapiano?

Before we jump into the list, let's quickly break down what Amapiano actually is. Amapiano, which translates to "the pianos" in Zulu, is a subgenre of house music that originated in South Africa. It’s characterized by its distinctive log drum basslines, jazzy piano melodies, and often features soulful vocals. The tempo usually sits around 110 to 115 BPM, making it perfect for both chilled listening and energetic dance floors. What sets Amapiano apart is its unique blend of deep house, jazz, and kwaito influences, creating a sound that is both uniquely South African and globally appealing.

Amapiano's rise to international fame has been nothing short of meteoric. What started as a local sound in the townships of South Africa quickly spread across the continent and then the globe. Thanks to the internet, social media platforms like TikTok, and the support of international DJs, Amapiano has found its way into clubs, festivals, and playlists worldwide. The genre’s infectious energy and distinctive sound have captivated audiences from Lagos to London, making it one of the most exciting and innovative musical movements of recent years. Its influence can be heard in various other genres, with artists from different backgrounds incorporating Amapiano elements into their own music, further cementing its place in the global music scene. So, whether you're a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, there's no denying the impact and appeal of Amapiano. Now that we have a better understanding of what Amapiano is, let’s dive into our top 10 songs of 2023 that made waves and set the dance floors on fire.

1. "Mnike" - Tyler ICU ft. Tumelo.Za, Nandipha808, Ceeka RSA & Tyron Dee

"Mnike" is undoubtedly one of the biggest Amapiano anthems of 2023. Tyler ICU, known for his production prowess, assembled a stellar cast of vocalists including Tumelo.Za, Nandipha808, Ceeka RSA, and Tyron Dee, creating a track that's both smooth and incredibly catchy. The song’s title, "Mnike," translates to "Give Me," and the track is essentially a plea for good times, good vibes, and all the finer things in life. The infectious beat, combined with the soulful vocals, makes it impossible not to move to. It’s the kind of song that takes over the entire club the moment it drops.

From the moment the track begins, you're immediately drawn in by the signature Amapiano log drum, setting a hypnotic rhythm that is both grounding and energizing. The piano melodies dance playfully around the bassline, creating a layered soundscape that is intricate yet accessible. The vocal performances are top-notch, with each artist bringing their unique style and flair to the track. Tumelo.Za's smooth delivery, Nandipha808's soulful harmonies, Ceeka RSA's rhythmic chanting, and Tyron Dee's catchy hooks all blend seamlessly together, creating a cohesive and captivating listening experience. The lyrical content is simple yet effective, focusing on themes of enjoyment, celebration, and the desire for the good life, resonating with listeners who are looking to let loose and have a great time. "Mnike" is more than just a song; it's an experience, a vibe, and an anthem that encapsulates the spirit of Amapiano in 2023. It’s a track that will undoubtedly remain a classic in the genre for years to come, and a must-have on any Amapiano playlist.

2. "Yini Sdakwa" - Kabza De Small & Mthunzi

Kabza De Small, often referred to as the "King of Amapiano," teamed up with Mthunzi to deliver "Yini Sdakwa." This track is a perfect example of Kabza's signature sound – deep, melodic, and irresistibly danceable. Mthunzi's vocals add a layer of soulful depth, making this song a favorite for both casual listeners and hardcore Amapiano fans. The song’s title translates to “What am I drunk on?” hinting at the intoxicating rhythm and immersive vibe of the music.

"Yini Sdakwa" stands out due to its meticulous production and arrangement. Kabza De Small’s expertise is evident in the way he crafts the beat, using subtle variations and intricate details to keep the listener engaged from start to finish. The song structure is well-balanced, allowing each element to shine without overpowering the others. The interplay between the piano melodies, bassline, and percussion creates a rich sonic tapestry that is both complex and accessible. Mthunzi's vocals add an emotional layer to the track, with his soulful delivery and heartfelt lyrics. He sings about the disorienting and intoxicating feeling of being in love or caught up in a moment, perfectly capturing the euphoric essence of the music. The song’s production quality is top-notch, with every element mixed and mastered to perfection, ensuring that it sounds great on any sound system. "Yini Sdakwa" is more than just a dance track; it’s a complete musical experience that transports you to another world. It’s a testament to Kabza De Small’s talent and Mthunzi’s vocal prowess, solidifying its place as one of the top Amapiano songs of 2023.

3. "Paris" - DJ Melzi ft. Mkeyz

"Paris" by DJ Melzi featuring Mkeyz is another standout track from 2023. This song combines DJ Melzi’s innovative production style with Mkeyz’s captivating vocals, creating a unique and unforgettable sound. The track has a dreamy, almost ethereal quality, making it perfect for late-night drives or chilled-out listening sessions. Its blend of Amapiano rhythms with a touch of electronic flair sets it apart from the typical Amapiano sound, showcasing the genre’s versatility.

What makes "Paris" truly special is its ability to create an atmosphere. The song’s production is layered and textured, with subtle nuances that reveal themselves with each listen. The dreamy synth pads, combined with the driving Amapiano beat, create a sense of movement and momentum. Mkeyz's vocals float effortlessly over the instrumental, adding a layer of emotion and depth to the track. She sings about longing, love, and the desire to escape to a beautiful place, perfectly capturing the song’s romantic and aspirational themes. The song's structure is well-crafted, with each section flowing seamlessly into the next, creating a cohesive and engaging listening experience. The mix and mastering are also top-notch, ensuring that the song sounds crisp and clear on any sound system. "Paris" is more than just a song; it's an auditory journey that transports you to another world. It’s a testament to DJ Melzi’s innovative production style and Mkeyz’s captivating vocals, solidifying its place as one of the top Amapiano songs of 2023. It’s a track that showcases the genre’s ability to evolve and push boundaries, while still maintaining its core identity.

4. "Imnandi Lento" - DJ Stokie ft. Eemoh & Jay Sax

DJ Stokie’s "Imnandi Lento" featuring Eemoh and Jay Sax brings a jazzy twist to the Amapiano scene. This track is smooth, sophisticated, and showcases the versatility of Amapiano. Jay Sax’s saxophone melodies add a unique flavor, while Eemoh’s vocals provide the perfect complement. The song's title translates to "This Thing is Sweet," and it lives up to its name with its delightful and infectious vibe.

"Imnandi Lento" is a testament to the power of collaboration. DJ Stokie’s production skills are evident in the way he blends the various elements together, creating a cohesive and harmonious sound. The Amapiano beat is solid and driving, providing a foundation for the other instruments to shine. Jay Sax's saxophone melodies add a layer of sophistication and elegance to the track, elevating it beyond the typical Amapiano sound. His playing is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant, adding a unique flavor to the song. Eemoh's vocals are smooth and soulful, perfectly complementing the instrumental. He sings about the joys of life, the beauty of love, and the importance of enjoying the moment, capturing the song’s positive and uplifting themes. The song's structure is well-crafted, with each section flowing seamlessly into the next, creating a cohesive and engaging listening experience. The mix and mastering are also top-notch, ensuring that the song sounds crisp and clear on any sound system. "Imnandi Lento" is more than just a dance track; it’s a celebration of life and music. It’s a testament to DJ Stokie’s production skills, Jay Sax’s instrumental prowess, and Eemoh’s vocal talent, solidifying its place as one of the top Amapiano songs of 2023. It’s a track that showcases the genre’s ability to incorporate diverse musical influences, while still maintaining its core identity.

5. "Dalie" - Kamo Mphela ft. Baby S.O & Khalil Harrison

Kamo Mphela is a force to be reckoned with in the Amapiano world, and "Dalie" featuring Baby S.O and Khalil Harrison is a prime example of her talent. This track is energetic, infectious, and showcases Kamo's unique vocal style and stage presence. Baby S.O and Khalil Harrison add their own flair, making this a collaborative hit that's perfect for the dance floor. The song’s catchy hooks and vibrant energy make it a standout in the Amapiano scene.

"Dalie" is a perfect example of Kamo Mphela's ability to create a party atmosphere. From the moment the track begins, you're immediately drawn in by its infectious energy and driving beat. The Amapiano rhythm is relentless, pushing you to move and groove along with the music. Kamo Mphela's vocals are confident and assertive, commanding attention and setting the tone for the song. Baby S.O and Khalil Harrison add their own unique styles to the track, complementing Kamo's performance and enhancing the overall listening experience. The song's lyrics are catchy and memorable, focusing on themes of confidence, self-expression, and having a good time. The production quality is top-notch, with every element mixed and mastered to perfection, ensuring that the song sounds great on any sound system. "Dalie" is more than just a song; it’s an anthem for self-confidence and empowerment. It’s a testament to Kamo Mphela’s talent as a performer, as well as Baby S.O and Khalil Harrison’s contributions, solidifying its place as one of the top Amapiano songs of 2023. It’s a track that is sure to get any party started and keep the energy high all night long.

6. "Hamba Juba" - Soulful G ft. Da Muziqal Chef & Murumba Pitch

Soulful G, Da Muziqal Chef, and Murumba Pitch come together on "Hamba Juba," a track that's both soulful and danceable. This song stands out for its beautiful melodies and heartfelt vocals. Murumba Pitch’s harmonies add an extra layer of depth, making this a track that's perfect for both listening and dancing. The title, which translates to “Go Juba,” invites listeners to immerse themselves in the music and let go of their worries.

"Hamba Juba" is a masterclass in collaboration, showcasing the strengths of each artist involved. Soulful G's vocals are emotive and captivating, drawing the listener in with her heartfelt delivery. Da Muziqal Chef's production is polished and refined, creating a sonic landscape that is both lush and engaging. Murumba Pitch's harmonies add a layer of depth and complexity to the track, elevating it beyond the typical Amapiano sound. The song's lyrics are poetic and evocative, painting a picture of love, loss, and the search for meaning. The production quality is top-notch, with every element mixed and mastered to perfection, ensuring that the song sounds great on any sound system. "Hamba Juba" is more than just a song; it's a work of art that speaks to the soul. It’s a testament to Soulful G's vocal talent, Da Muziqal Chef’s production skills, and Murumba Pitch’s harmonizing abilities, solidifying its place as one of the top Amapiano songs of 2023. It’s a track that is sure to resonate with listeners on a deep and emotional level.

7. "Asibe Happy" - Kabza De Small & DJ Maphorisa ft. Ami Faku

Another banger from the dynamic duo Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa, "Asibe Happy" featuring Ami Faku is a feel-good anthem. Ami Faku's vocals are absolutely stunning, adding a layer of emotion and depth to the track. This song is all about celebrating life and finding joy in the moment, making it a perfect addition to any playlist. The title translates to “Let’s Be Happy,” and the song embodies that sentiment perfectly.

"Asibe Happy" is a testament to the power of collaboration and the magic that happens when talented artists come together. Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa's production is seamless and polished, creating a sonic landscape that is both inviting and infectious. Ami Faku's vocals are the highlight of the track, soaring over the instrumental with grace and power. Her delivery is both emotive and captivating, drawing the listener in with her heartfelt performance. The song's lyrics are simple yet profound, focusing on themes of joy, gratitude, and the importance of living in the moment. The production quality is top-notch, with every element mixed and mastered to perfection, ensuring that the song sounds great on any sound system. "Asibe Happy" is more than just a song; it's a celebration of life and music. It’s a testament to Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa’s production skills, as well as Ami Faku’s vocal talent, solidifying its place as one of the top Amapiano songs of 2023. It’s a track that is sure to uplift and inspire listeners around the world.

8. "Sosha" - Vigro Deep

Vigro Deep is known for his innovative and experimental approach to Amapiano, and "Sosha" is a prime example of his unique style. This track is dark, hypnotic, and features a driving bassline that will get any dance floor moving. "Sosha" showcases Vigro Deep's ability to create a distinct and captivating sound within the Amapiano genre. The track's minimalistic approach and focus on rhythm make it a standout in the Amapiano scene.

"Sosha" is a masterclass in minimalism and rhythm. Vigro Deep strips away unnecessary elements, focusing on the core components of the Amapiano sound: the bassline, the percussion, and the atmosphere. The result is a track that is both hypnotic and engaging, drawing the listener in with its subtle nuances and driving energy. The song's production is sparse yet effective, creating a sense of space and depth that is rare in the Amapiano genre. The bassline is the star of the show, rumbling and pulsating with a raw and primal energy. The percussion is crisp and precise, providing a solid foundation for the bassline to build upon. The atmosphere is dark and mysterious, adding a layer of intrigue to the track. The production quality is top-notch, with every element mixed and mastered to perfection, ensuring that the song sounds great on any sound system. "Sosha" is more than just a dance track; it's an exploration of sound and rhythm. It’s a testament to Vigro Deep’s innovative approach to Amapiano, solidifying its place as one of the top Amapiano songs of 2023. It’s a track that is sure to challenge and inspire listeners around the world.

9. "Mali Eningi" - Big Zulu ft. Riky Rick & Intaba Yase Dubai

"Mali Eningi" by Big Zulu featuring Riky Rick and Intaba Yase Dubai is a powerful and emotional track that combines Amapiano with elements of hip-hop and maskandi. The song features heartfelt vocals from Intaba Yase Dubai and poignant verses from Big Zulu and Riky Rick. The title, which translates to “A Lot of Money,” explores themes of success, loss, and the importance of staying true to oneself. This song is a testament to the versatility and emotional depth of Amapiano.

"Mali Eningi" is a poignant and introspective track that showcases the versatility of Amapiano. Big Zulu's powerful delivery and Riky Rick's smooth flow complement Intaba Yase Dubai's soulful vocals, creating a deeply moving listening experience. The song’s themes of ambition, hardship, and remembrance resonate with listeners from all walks of life. The fusion of Amapiano rhythms with hip-hop and maskandi elements creates a unique sonic landscape that is both familiar and innovative. The lyrics are thought-provoking and honest, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of life. The production quality is top-notch, with every element mixed and mastered to perfection, ensuring that the song sounds great on any sound system. "Mali Eningi" is more than just a song; it’s a story that speaks to the heart. It’s a testament to Big Zulu, Riky Rick (RIP), and Intaba Yase Dubai’s artistry, solidifying its place as one of the top Amapiano songs of 2023. It’s a track that will continue to inspire and uplift listeners for years to come.

10. "Trigger" - DJ Karri ft. Prime De 1st, BL Zero & Lebzito

Rounding out our list is "Trigger" by DJ Karri featuring Prime De 1st, BL Zero, and Lebzito. This track is pure energy, with a hard-hitting beat and infectious vocals that are sure to get any crowd hyped. "Trigger" is a perfect example of the high-energy, dance-floor-focused sound that has made Amapiano so popular. The song's raw energy and catchy hooks make it a standout in the Amapiano scene.

"Trigger" is a high-octane anthem that is designed to get the party started. DJ Karri’s production is relentless and driving, creating a sonic landscape that is both intense and infectious. Prime De 1st, BL Zero, and Lebzito deliver their verses with passion and energy, hyping up the crowd and setting the tone for the song. The song's lyrics are simple yet effective, focusing on themes of celebration, excitement, and the joy of being in the moment. The production quality is top-notch, with every element mixed and mastered to perfection, ensuring that the song sounds great on any sound system. "Trigger" is more than just a song; it's an experience that is meant to be felt as much as it is heard. It’s a testament to DJ Karri, Prime De 1st, BL Zero, and Lebzito’s ability to create a high-energy dance track, solidifying its place as one of the top Amapiano songs of 2023. It’s a track that is sure to set any dance floor on fire.

So there you have it – the top 10 Amapiano songs of 2023! This year has been incredible for the genre, and these tracks are just a small taste of the amazing music that has been released. Be sure to check out these artists and explore more of the Amapiano scene. Keep dancing, keep grooving, and stay tuned for more amazing music in the years to come!