The Big Brother Mzansi Umlilo house is all about turning up the volume this week! With the theme Nyusi Volume, the housemates dove into the evolution of two of South Africa’s biggest music genres – Amapiano and Hip Hop. From late-night dance-offs to impromptu rap battles, music has always been a key part of life in the house, and this week has brought even more vibes! 🎶

Day 18: From snoozing to oozing with wager energy – BBMzansi

Amapiano and Hip Hop: A tale of two titans 

South African music has seen many waves over the years, but few have been as dominant as Amapiano and Hip Hop. While Hip Hop gave us lyrical prowess, slick beats, and iconic rap battles, Amapiano has taken over with its deep log drums, soulful melodies, and infectious dance moves. These two genres have influenced not just the South African music scene but also how housemates express themselves in Big Brother Mzansi.

South African hip-hop emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s, inspired by American rap but deeply rooted in local experiences. Pioneering groups like Prophets of Da City (POC) and Black Noise used Hip Hop as a tool for activism duringthe struggle, addressing social injustices through powerful lyrics. By the 2000s, artists like HHP, ProKid, and Skwatta Kamp popularised the genre with a unique local flavour, incorporating vernacular languages like Tswana and Zulu. The 2010s saw a global rise in SA Hip Hop, led by stars such as AKA, Cassper Nyovest, and Nasty C, blending trap, kwaito, and Afrobeat influences.

Watch the recent battle in the house: 

Amapiano, a hybrid of deep house, kwaito, and jazz-influenced piano melodies, originated in Gauteng’s townships in the early 2010s. Initially underground, it gained mainstream attention by the mid-2010s, thanks to viral tracks and the rise of independent producers and DJs like Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, and Major League DJz. Characterised by log drum basslines and smooth synths, Amapiano has since become South Africa’s dominant genre, influencing global music trends and collaborations with international artists.

While Hip Hop remains a strong force, Amapiano has reshaped the music industry, proving that Mzansi sounds can take over the world.

We’ve seen housemates drop fire freestyles during chill sessions, but we’ve also watched them vibe to yanos bangers, creating viral dance moments. Who can forget the way past housemates have made Amapiano dance styles a part of their daily routine? From the iconic pouncing cat to the Zekethe, Amapiano has turned the house into a 24/7 groove.

Dance challenges that broke the Internet

Big Brother Mzansi housemates have a way of setting trends, and dance challenges have been a huge part of that. Who can forget season 3 housemates Libo and Themba’s Amapiano shuffle that had everyone talking? Or how Nale’s smooth moves had fans attempting to recreate her effortless style? Even Hip Hop fans have had their moments, with housemates turning diary sessions into rap cyphers.

This season’s housemates are already proving that Nyusi Volume is the perfect theme to bring the energy! We’ve seen them getting down with TikTok-worthy dance moves and remixing classic Hip Hop hits with their own bars. The battle of the genres is real, and we are here for it!

Sources:

Soundatrap, Redbull 

Big Brother Mzansi season 5 is broadcast live 24/7 on DStv channel 198, which you can stream here. Sunday eviction shows are at 18:00 on Mzansi Magic. To join the conversation on social media platforms, use the hashtag #BBMzansi and connect with us on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok!