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Trending in Bongza’s World
Latest Album
My Story Continues
Released Mar 27, 2026
Trending Globally
Story
Quick Facts
From
South Africa
South Africa
Journey
Bongani Mlotshwa, professionally known as Bongza, is a South African DJ, producer, and recording artist born and raised in Diepkloof, Soweto. Coming from a township deeply woven into the cultural fabric of Gauteng, he developed an early fascination with sound, experimenting with electronic production and layering acappella harmonies long before Amapiano became a national movement.
He began pursuing music professionally around 2013, at a time when Amapiano was still largely underground. Bongza quickly distinguished himself through a refined, melodic approach later associated with the “private school” sub-style of the genre, characterized by polished arrangements, emotive chords, and intricate log drum patterns. His career gained major momentum after signing to Piano Hub, the label founded by Kabza De Small, a pivotal figure in Amapiano’s mainstream rise.
A defining aspect of Bongza’s trajectory is his long-standing partnership with MDU aka TRP. Together, they are widely credited with shaping and refining the modern log drum sound that became central to contemporary Amapiano production. Their collaborative project, "Pull Up Project" (2020), solidified their status within the scene and positioned Bongza as one of the genre’s technical architects.
His growing discography reflects steady evolution. "Yashintsha Impilo" (2021) delivered notable tracks such as “Dilika” and “Mina Nawe,” while Bayeke (2022) featured the standout “Ngiyaz’fela Ngawe” with Nomcebo Zikode, expanding his reach to broader audiences. In 2024, he released "NONJABULO," a full-length project showcasing his mature sonic identity, followed by "Story to Tell," which further emphasized layered storytelling through rhythm and harmony. The "Inhlonipho" EP also highlighted his collaborative depth, featuring artists such as Mkeyz, DJ Maphorisa, and DSax.
Beyond MDU aka TRP, Bongza has worked with Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, Young Stunna, Daliwonga, Focalistic, Mas Musiq, and others, reinforcing his position within Amapiano’s core circle. Remaining active, Bongza continues to release new material, including singles such as “Izinyembezi,” “PETRUS,” and the 2026 release “Sgidla Vah,” maintaining relevance as Amapiano evolves globally.