Kelvin Momo surpasses Kabza de Small as Spotify’s most streamed artist in SA

by Nomonde Simelane

Without a doubt, South Africa is the home of the amapiano sound that has taken over the world, however, the title for the ‘King of amapiano’ is yet to be determined as Kelvin Momo surpasses Kabza de Small as South Africa’s most streamed artist on Spotify.

With approximately 640 million active monthly listeners, Spotify has become the most used music streaming app in the world, which can most likely be credited to its unparalleled algorithm that allows for one of the most seamless and enjoyable user experiences. Artists such as Kelvin Momo have benefitted immensely from the establishment of this platform as it has made music from all over the world so much more accessible than ever before.

After finishing off 2024 as Spotify’s most streamed local artist, Kabza de Small now hands his throne over to his fellow producer and hit-maker Kelvin Momo, who has proven to be a notable contender in the ‘King of amapiano’ conversation. With an incomparable discography containing albums such as Ntsako, Kurhula and his most streamed album SEWE,  as well as a work ethic unlike any other we’ve seen before, it comes as no surprise that Kelvin would achieve this accomplishment at this point in his career.

Sewe quickly became the must-hear album in the country this past December, breaking the record for most streamed album in a day as fans jammed to bangers such as Bala and Langa’elihle. His album Ntsako is also another fan favourite as hits such as Waze wamuhle and Bo gogo continue to dominate Spotify and Apple Music charts.

As if that is not enough, the music maestro recently hopped onto his Instagram to reveal that his first project for 2025 was almost complete, causing much excitement and wonder from fans and followers.

Some of his followers have expressed concern for the rate at which Kelvin is releasing projects with approximately 3o songs each. These users worry whether they are not being given enough time to adequately listen and digest the current albums he has released, which all contain an extensive tracklist.

Also see: Another final curtain call for Muvhango after they fail to secure new season