Kwaito

Description

Kwaito is a South African music genre originating in the late 1980s and early 1990s, combining slowed-down house beats, deep basslines, percussive loops, and narrative vocals in local languages—often delivered in a conversational style. It draws from marabi, kwela, mbaqanga, bubblegum pop, hip hop, and house, and became the defining voice of post-apartheid urban youth culture.

History

Emerging from the townships of Soweto, Johannesburg during South Africa’s transition from apartheid, Kwaito blended slowed house beats with African rhythms, township slang, and melodic loops. The term derives from the Afrikaans slang "kwaai"—meaning "hot" or "cool". It quickly became popular across the country as both a cultural expression of newfound freedom and a reflection of urban life. Early pioneers included Mdu Masilela, Arthur Mafokate, Boom Shaka, Trompies, TKZee, and Bongo Maffin, who shaped its sound and identity. It remains deeply embedded in South African music and continues to influence new subgenres such as Durban kwaito, Guz, and kwai-jazz.