A celebration of amapiano history
When Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa, better known as the Scorpion Kings announced Live with Friends at Loftus Stadium, expectations were sky-high. Not only are these two the torchbearers of amapiano, but they’ve also become cultural icons shaping South Africa’s music identity.
The concert wasn’t just about the Kings themselves. It was a statement: amapiano has gone global, and South Africa remains its heartbeat. From stage design to setlists, every detail carried the weight of history. Yet, the night also had its flaws, with chaotic gate closures and tricky logistics testing fans’ patience. Still, when the music took over, Loftus roared with unity.
View this post on Instagram
Here are five unforgettable highlights from a night that will be remembered long after the sound faded.
1. Kamo Mphela stole the show
Kamo Mphela walked out in a white suit and sleek bob, instantly commanding attention. Her choreography was razor-sharp, rehearsed, deliberate, and electrifying. From her classics like Amanikiniki to fresh tracks, Kamo reminded everyone why she’s amapiano royalty.
The moonwalk-inspired moves had fans torn between living in the moment or recording it for TikTok. Judging by the social media flood, many did both.
2. Lyrics on the big screen
A surprisingly simple but game-changing touch: lyrics projected on massive stadium screens. Suddenly, thousands of fans weren’t just vibing, they were singing together in perfect unison.
For once, we weren’t mumbling our own versions of lines. We were belting the right words. A detail so small, but one that made Loftus feel like the world’s biggest choir.
3. DJ Maphorisa’s mother set the tone
Before the beats dropped, the night opened with prayer. DJ Maphorisa’s mother stood on stage, offering a heartfelt blessing that grounded the glitz in something deeply South African: faith and family.
It was tender, emotional, and symbolic. In a genre often associated with late-night parties and fast living, the moment reminded fans that even stars lean on home and heritage.
4. Fashion moments worth a runway
In the words of Riky Rick, “Sidlukotini.” Fashion was its own performance at Loftus. From Young Stunna’s sleek fit to Mafikizolo’s elegance, and Scorpion Kings’ own drip, the stage doubled as a celebration of African designers.
Social media lit up with outfit breakdowns, proving once again that music and style go hand-in-hand in South Africa’s cultural scene.
5. Davido brought continental unity
When Nigerian superstar Davido hit the stage, Loftus erupted. His set was packed with hits like Fall, but it was his collaborations that elevated the night. Performing Tchelete with Mafikizolo and Ke Star (Remix) alongside Focalistic, Davido bridged West and Southern Africa in a way only music can.
Draped in a jacket with the South African flag, he reminded fans of his long-standing love for Mzansi. It wasn’t just a performance, it was a homecoming.
View this post on Instagram
A night of triumph, despite the chaos
Yes, the logistics were messy. Yes, fans grumbled about closed gates and bathroom runs gone wrong. But once the music started, all of that faded.
Scorpion Kings Live with Friends wasn’t just a concert, it was proof of amapiano’s global power, South Africa’s cultural pride, and the unifying magic of music. If Showmax or Netflix isn’t already plotting a special, they should be. Nights like these deserve to be relived, long after the lights at Loftus go dark.
{Source: IOL}
Featured Image: X {@2022AFRICA}
