Kamo Mphela’s ‘Partii’ Ignites the Amapiano Scene

The South African music landscape continues to pulse with the vibrant energy of amapiano, and Kamo Mphela, one of its brightest stars, has once again captured the spotlight with her latest single, Partii. Released on June 17, 2025, the track has quickly become a sensation across major streaming platforms, solidifying Mphela’s status as a trailblazer in the genre. The single, characterized by its infectious beats and celebratory vibe, reflects the ongoing global rise of amapiano, a genre that has seen a 114% surge in consumption across sub-Saharan Africa and a 28% increase in global listenership in 2024 alone, according to streaming data.

Partii is a high-energy anthem that encapsulates the joyous spirit of South African dance culture. Produced with a blend of pulsating basslines and intricate log drum patterns, the track showcases Mphela’s signature vocal delivery, which effortlessly weaves between commanding chants and melodic hooks. The song’s release coincides with the announcement of the 2025 Basadi in Music Awards (BIMAs) nominees, set to be revealed on June 19, where Mphela is expected to be a strong contender. Industry insiders note that her ability to consistently deliver hits has made her a cultural ambassador for amapiano, a genre that has transcended South African borders to influence global dance music.

The release of Partii comes at a time when South African artists are generating significant revenue through digital platforms. In 2024, South African musicians earned R400 million ($22.22 million) in Spotify royalties, reflecting a 54% year-on-year growth. Mphela’s strategic release on all major streaming platforms taps into this booming market, ensuring accessibility to her growing international fanbase. Music In Africa, a leading platform for African musicians, praised the single for its promotional ingenuity, noting that it was accompanied by a visually striking music video that celebrates South African street culture and dance.

Fans and critics alike have lauded Partii for its authenticity and its ability to capture the communal spirit of amapiano. Social media posts highlight Mphela’s choreography, which has sparked viral dance challenges across platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The song’s success underscores the growing influence of South African youth in shaping global music trends, as noted by Jena Dominique, founder of the global creative collective Homies. Dominique emphasized that South African artists like Mphela are not only creating music but also defining cultural narratives that resonate worldwide.

As amapiano continues to dominate, Mphela’s Partii serves as a testament to the genre’s evolution and its role in uniting communities through music. With the BIMAs on the horizon and her international profile soaring, Mphela is poised to lead the next wave of South African musical innovation.