The Future of Amapiano: A Chat with Cartoon 47

While some critics might argue that the Amapiano trend is losing momentum, Cartoon 47 remains steadfast in his belief that this genre is far from fading. In a recent interview , Cartoon 47, one of Kenya’s most prominent Amapiano artists, shared his perspective on the future of Amapiano, his influential role in the genre, and the growing international interest in this unique musical style.

Cartoon 47 confidently asserted that Amapiano is not just a fleeting trend but a genre that is solidifying its place in the global music landscape. His perspective is bolstered by his own success and the high demand for Amapiano performances. “Currently in Kenya, I am securing most of the major gigs as an Amapiano artist. The high demand for performances at various events clearly indicates that Amapiano is not fading but growing every day,” he stated. This assertion is backed by his continued prominence in the Kenyan music scene, where Amapiano has become a significant force.

Amapiano, a genre that originated in South Africa, has been making significant global strides. Cartoon 47 highlighted how international stars have embraced the genre, further validating its global appeal. For instance, Chris Brown has been seen frequently dancing to Amapiano beats and even released an Amapiano remix of his song “Angels.” Similarly, Jason Derulo collaborated with Tanzanian superstar Diamond Platnumz on the hit track “Komasava.” These collaborations illustrate Amapiano’s expanding influence beyond its African roots and into the international music arena.

The artist emphasized that Amapiano’s rise is not just a trend but a reflection of its deep connection to African culture. “Amapiano represents African culture and thus cannot disappear like other genres that rise and fall in popularity. It is an international sound that embodies African culture,” Cartoon 47 explained. This cultural significance, combined with its international reach, reinforces the genre’s durability and appeal.

When discussing the future of Amapiano, Cartoon 47 drew comparisons to other genres that have come and gone. Unlike genres such as ArbanTone, Genge Tone, or Afro Beats, which have seen fluctuating popularity, Amapiano has maintained a consistent presence. “Amapiano is not an emerging sound like ArbanTone or Gengetone. While those genres were gaining recognition, Amapiano has always been a constant,” he concluded. This enduring presence suggests that Amapiano will continue to be a dominant force in the music scene.

Cartoon 47 also highlighted the skill required to effectively deliver Amapiano music. He noted that not all artists possess the capability to capture the essence of the genre. This specialization underscores the genre’s complexity and the unique contribution of artists like himself in keeping Amapiano at the forefront of the music industry.

In conclusion, Cartoon 47’s insights into the future of Amapiano offer a compelling argument against the notion that the genre is on the decline. With its growing international recognition, its deep roots in African culture, and its consistent presence in the music scene, Amapiano appears to be not just surviving but thriving. As long as artists like Cartoon 47 continue to lead the charge, Amapiano is set to remain a significant and influential genre in the global music landscape.