Thatohatsi shines as the most featured voice on ‘Bab'Motha’ - who is this Amapiano powerhouse?

In a musical landscape as competitive and dynamic as South Africa’s Amapiano scene, standing out is no easy feat. 

But Thatohatsi Raphadi is not just standing out - she’s soaring. 

Her rise has been marked by persistence, faith and undeniable talent, and now, she’s earned her most significant spotlight yet.

Thatohatsi is the most featured vocalist on Kabza De Small’s latest chart-topping album, “Bab’Motha” - a groundbreaking project that’s making waves across the country. 

Her voice, soulful and hauntingly powerful, graces multiple tracks including “Ngiyozama”, “Incwadi Yenduduzo”, “Izimbali” and “Iphupho” - songs that are quickly becoming fan favourites.

This achievement places Thatohatsi in a league of her own. To be the most featured artist on an album by one of the genre’s most iconic and respected producers is no small honour. It’s a career-defining moment that underscores not only her artistic versatility but also her growing influence in the industry. 

Taking to Instagram to express her gratitude, Thatohatsi shared a heartfelt message rooted in faith and humility:

“Isaiah 60:22 - When the time is right, I, the Lord, will make it happen. I’d love to take this opportunity and appreciate being part of this amazing body of work. I never imagined that one day I’d be here, but through the grace and strength of Jehovah, it happened."

"Thank you to everyone who takes care of my name and genuinely supports me, even when I’m not in the room. May the good Lord bless you and provide all your needs. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.”

This post, filled with gratitude and spiritual conviction, reflects the essence of who she is - a grounded artist with a divine sense of purpose, who knows how far she has come and how much further she can still go.

A rising star born in Payneville

Born and raised in Payneville, a suburb of Springs in Gauteng, Thatohatsi's journey into music started at a young age.

With deep roots in church music and local community performing arts initiatives, she developed a strong foundation in vocal technique and emotional expression.

Her early exposure to music wasn’t just technical - it was spiritual, communal and healing.

These early influences are still evident in her work today, which blends storytelling with melody in a way that is both vulnerable and captivating.

Her breakout moment came with “Xolele”, a track she co-created with Ntando Yamahlubi, Mphoet, Blaq Note and Jaz.

The song exploded on TikTok, gaining massive traction and pushing her name into the mainstream. Its success wasn’t just about virality - it was about resonance. Listeners connected with her voice and the sincerity in her delivery.

From there, her career snowballed. Artists she once looked up to began reaching out for collaborations. 

She caught the attention of industry heavyweights, not just because of one hit, but because of her consistency, her discipline and her ability to pour raw emotion into every note she sings.

Collaborations that speak volumes

Thatohatsi’s discography is quickly growing - and so is the calibre of artists who want to work with her. She’s collaborated with names like AyaProw, Mellow & Sleazy, and perhaps most notably, Kelvin Momo.

Not only does she have tracks with the “king of private school Amapiano”, but she also featured in his prestigious Redbull Symphonic concert - a genre-defining event that blurred the lines between classical and modern soundscapes.

These collaborations speak to Thatohatsi’s range. She can slide seamlessly between soulful ballads and upbeat anthems.

Her voice is textured - soft yet commanding, traditional yet fresh. Whether layered over a slow groove or a thumping bassline, her presence is unmistakable.

What makes Thatohatsi unstoppable?

Thatohatsi’s success is not a fluke, nor is it simply the result of lucky timing. Her rise is a product of several key factors:

• Authenticity: In an era of digital personas and curated images, Thatohatsi’s authenticity is refreshing. She sings from the heart and speaks with humility - qualities that resonate deeply with her audience.
• Faith: Her spiritual grounding is not just performative; it’s woven into the fabric of her life and her music. She openly attributes her success to divine timing, and this unwavering belief has carried her through personal and professional challenges.
• Versatility: She isn’t boxed into one sound or one style. From mellow piano-driven ballads to energetic dance-floor hits, she adapts, experiments and elevates.

With “Bab'Motha" gaining momentum and her name now attached to one of the most talked-about Amapiano projects of the year, Thatohatsi’s future looks incredibly bright. But more importantly, she seems ready for it.