Gayton McKenzie hails Scorpion Kings: ‘Amapiano is South Africa’s gift to the music world’

by Zintle Mdaka

Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has thrown his support behind the Scorpion Kings, describing amapiano as one of South Africa’s major contributions to the global music scene.

Also see: Scorpion Kings Live unveils massive lineup of entertainers for September show

Gayton recently praised the duo ahead of their highly anticipated performance at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, where DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small were scheduled to headline the Scorpion Kings Live concert on 19 September 2026.

The minister has previously spoken about his support for the pair and said he had helped secure sponsorship for their shows. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Gayton described himself as a major supporter of the Scorpion Kings and said he was once again assisting them with sponsorship.

“Amapiano is South Africa’s gift to the music world,” Gayton said, adding that the event represented a significant achievement for a local act performing at a stadium.

Also see: Scorpion Kings Live announces major pre-show acts

Celebrating amapiano’s global influence

Gayton’s comments come as amapiano continues to expand its international reach, with South African artists and producers taking the genre to audiences worldwide.

The Scorpion Kings — the musical partnership between DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small — have played a prominent role in the genre’s development and international popularity. The duo’s music combines amapiano with elements of house, jazz and other South African sounds.

For Gayton, the genre represents more than just a popular musical style. He described amapiano as South Africa’s gift to the music world, highlighting the influence of local musicians in shaping a sound that has travelled far beyond the country’s borders.

Scorpion Kings take over FNB Stadium

The FNB Stadium concert marked another major milestone for the Scorpion Kings, with the event bringing together fans to celebrate amapiano and the duo’s contribution to South African music.

The official Scorpion Kings Live website describes DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small as artists who helped transform amapiano from a South African township sound into a global movement.

Gayton’s support comes as the government continues to highlight the role of South Africa’s creative industries in promoting the country’s culture internationally.

With amapiano now firmly embedded in global music conversations, the Scorpion Kings’ continued success reflects the growing international appetite for South African sounds.

Also see: Scorpion Kings Live Cabinet reconvenes ahead of historic FNB Stadium show

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