Kelvin Momo Makes History with Red Bull Symphonic
From June 6th to 8th, The Teatro in Johannesburg witnessed a breathtaking fusion of classical grandeur and township rhythm as Red Bull Symphonic: Amapiano – The Next Chapter unfolded in three completely sold-out shows. The groundbreaking event redefined the limits of Amapiano, giving the genre a fresh orchestral treatment that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.
At the core of this historic collaboration stood Kelvin Momo, the genre’s leading innovator and the father of “Private School Amapiano.” In partnership with conductor Adam Howard and the Egoli Symphonic Orchestra, Momo curated a journey that traced the roots of Amapiano while offering a vision of its expansive future. Each performance was met with standing ovations, underscoring the emotional power and cultural significance of the show.
Joining Kelvin Momo on stage were some of the genre’s most celebrated vocalists, including Babalwa M, Nia Pearl, Mashudu, Makhanj, Baby S.O.N, and Sino Msolo. Their contributions added richness and soul to the symphonic reinterpretations, creating unforgettable moments. One such moment came on the final night when Kelvin Momo serenaded Babalwa M in an emotional duet, closing with an intimate on-stage kiss that sent social media into a frenzy.
The production pulled out all the stops. From a full symphony and live choir to Kelvin Momo’s signature smooth keys and deep grooves, the audience was treated to a multi-sensory experience unlike anything seen before in South African music. One particularly heartfelt highlight was the performance of “Song Cry,” where Kelvin Momo fought back tears, visibly moved by the music and the moment.
Coinciding with the live shows was the release of Kelvin Momo’s new album Thato Ya Modimo, which broke records by racking up over 20 million streams in its first week. Already hailed as a modern classic, the album blends spiritual themes with rich sonic textures, cementing Momo’s place at the top of the Amapiano movement.
🎧 Listen: http://africori.to/thato
The event also marked a significant milestone for Africori, the music distribution powerhouse behind Kelvin Momo’s release. With a commanding 44% local market share on the Bmat chart and 58% representation in South Africa’s Top 50 tracks, Africori continues to shape the local industry. Account manager Yoann Chapalain has been instrumental in supporting Momo’s rise, exemplifying the value of strong partnerships between artists and distributors.
More than just a performance, Red Bull Symphonic: Amapiano – The Next Chapter stood as a celebration of South African creativity, musical progression, and cultural pride. It demonstrated what happens when street-born sounds meet symphonic mastery—setting a new benchmark for live music in South Africa and beyond.
