JOHANNESBURG – Renowned music producer DJ Maphorisa has finally revealed the real story behind the name “Scorpion Kings,” the iconic moniker that has come to define a movement within the Amapiano genre. In a candid interview on Metro FM on 12 August 2025, Maphorisa reflected on how the legendary collaboration with Kabza De Small was born and how the name that now headlines major festivals was, in fact, chosen almost by accident.
Maphorisa, born Themba Sekowe, has long been at the forefront of South Africa’s evolving soundscape, but it was his partnership with Kabza De Small that shifted the landscape entirely. Together, the duo crafted anthems that would not only top local charts but also gain global recognition.
DJ Maphorisa Shares the “Scorpion Kings” Backstory
Speaking during his Metro FM sit-down, DJ Maphorisa shared how the now-famous name came into being during the early stages of his collaboration with Kabza.
“Kabza had a plan to drop an album. We had a few songs that were hot at the time, and I compiled a quick list and told them, ‘Let’s drop this and call it Scorpion Kings,’” said Maphorisa.
While many fans may have assumed that the name had deep symbolic or creative meaning, the truth is far more spontaneous—and humorous.
“I’m a Scorpio, but Kabza was born on the 26th of November, so he’s a Sagittarius. I was just rushing through everything and didn’t give it much thought,” Maphorisa admitted with a chuckle.
Despite the zodiac mismatch, the name stuck. And over time, “Scorpion Kings” became more than just a project title—it became a brand and a movement that encapsulated the golden era of Amapiano.
What began as a spur-of-the-moment naming decision turned into one of the most successful musical duos in South African history. DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small’s first official release under the Scorpion Kings title—a self-titled EP—dropped in 2019 and instantly caught fire.
Their chemistry was undeniable, blending Kabza’s melodic piano-driven style with Maphorisa’s knack for production and arrangement. The EP was followed by a string of successful releases, including The Return of the Scorpion Kings, Once Upon A Time In Lockdown, and Scorpion Kings Live, each cementing their position in music history.
The duo’s shows became known for their electrifying energy, live instrumentation, and viral crowd moments. Tracks like “Amantombazane,” “Lorch,” and “Hello” dominated playlists and radio airwaves, while streaming numbers soared into the millions.
DJ Maphorisa is no stranger to reinvention. Having started in the house music and Afrobeat scenes, he has continually evolved with the times. From his early work with Kalawa Jazmee to producing global hits like “Particula” and collaborating with the likes of Drake, Wizkid, and Major Lazer, his fingerprints are on some of the biggest African music exports.
However, his partnership with Kabza under the Scorpion Kings banner remains one of his most influential contributions.
What makes DJ Maphorisa’s approach unique is his willingness to collaborate and uplift emerging talent. Beyond just making music, he’s built platforms for other artists, producers, and DJs, creating a culture of inclusivity in what was once a tightly gatekept industry.
Although astrology wasn’t at the forefront of DJ Maphorisa’s mind when he coined the name, the Scorpio trait of ambition and transformation may have unknowingly played a role. In hindsight, the name perfectly captures Maphorisa’s relentless drive and his ability to evolve the sound of the streets into a mainstream force.
“We didn’t even think that far,” Maphorisa said during the interview. “We just made music. The name was just the name—but now it means something big.”
Indeed, “Scorpion Kings” has transcended the studio and stage. It’s become symbolic of a new South African sound, a stamp of quality, and a gateway for Amapiano to the world.
As DJ Maphorisa continues to tour, produce, and experiment with new genres, fans remain eager for another Scorpion Kings project. Both he and Kabza have hinted at more collaborations, though they are currently focused on individual projects and exploring solo ventures.
One thing is certain—whether it’s a spontaneous name or a calculated release, DJ Maphorisa knows how to shape the culture. And if the past is anything to go by, the next chapter in his career will be just as impactful.
Source- Fakaza
