MBABANE – Swazi Rally has not left out Amapiano heads for this year’s edition as they have added Amapiano sensation, DJ Stokie.
DJ Stokie, whose real name is Setoki Mbatha, is a legendary South African disc jockey and record producer widely recognised as a pioneering force of the global Amapiano music movement. Born on February 13, 1983 in Mzimhlophe, Soweto, Stokie has spent over two decades crafting his distinct ‘private school’ Amapiano sound, which blends Deep House baselines with smooth, jazzy piano melodies. Known affectionately by his fans as the ‘Superman’ of Soweto, he has successfully transitioned township street sounds into a globally celebrated music genre.
The organisers of the 33rd Swazi Rally have announced South African Amapiano head, DJ Stokie, as the second international artist on this year’s entertainment line-up. Swazi Rally Public Relations and Marketing Officer Banele Dlamini said securing Stokie reflects the organisers’ commitment to bringing top-quality entertainment while strengthening the event’s growing reputation across the region.
“We are excited to announce our second international artist for this year’s Swazi Rally. He is one of the biggest names in the Amapiano industry and we believe his performance will add great value to the event,” said Dlamini. He said more artists would be announced in the coming weeks as preparations continue. “Our entertainment programme is being carefully put together to cater for different audiences. We want visitors to enjoy a complete experience that combines music, motorcycles, family entertainment and tourism,” he said.
DJ Stokie is frequently credited with popularising Amapiano across Soweto. While building his 20-year career, he adopted the unique sound after hearing early iterations from East Rand producers MFR Souls. Over the years, his heavily instrumented, deep and soulful interpretation helped establish the structural blueprint for what Amapiano is today.
His ultimate tribute to his roots was detailed in his 2021 biographical documentary, ‘iPiano e’Soweto’, which chronicles his journey alongside peers and maps how the sound spread from local township street bashes to international dance floors.
Beyond the music decks, Mbatha has established himself as a savvy businessman. He works actively as a property developer in his hometown, owning multiple rental properties and building learners accommodation units to give back to the Soweto community.
