Thatohatsi, born Thato Raphadi, is one of South Africa’s exciting emerging Amapiano vocalists, celebrated for her powerful, soulful voice, emotionally expressive performances and distinctive fusion of gospel-inspired melodies with contemporary Amapiano rhythms.
Born and raised in Payneville, Springs, Gauteng, Thatohatsi developed her passion for music at an early age through church singing and community performing arts. Her musical upbringing provided a strong foundation in vocal technique, harmony and storytelling, influences that continue to define her unique sound.
Her breakthrough came with the release of Xolele, a collaboration with Ntando Yamahlubi, Mphoet, Blaq Note and Jaz. The song gained significant traction on TikTok, introducing her exceptional vocal ability to a wider audience and establishing her as a promising new talent in South Africa’s Amapiano scene.
Since her breakthrough, Thatohatsi has collaborated with some of the industry’s most influential producers and artists, including Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, Kelvin Momo, ShaunMusiQ, Major League DJz, Young Stunna and Nkosazana Daughter.
A significant career milestone came through her involvement in Kabza De Small’s acclaimed album Bab’Motha, where she emerged as the project’s most featured vocalist. Her contributions to tracks including Ngiyozama, Incwadi Yenduduzo, Izimbali and Iphupho demonstrated her remarkable versatility and ability to complement sophisticated Amapiano productions.
Her growing catalogue includes collaborations on Bo Gogo, Abantwana Bakho, Thandaza and Xolele, alongside contributions to the collaborative project Welile with ShaunMusiQ & Ftears and Tracy.
In 2025, Thatohatsi appeared alongside fellow vocalist Tracy on Piano City, the live performance platform hosted by Major League DJz. Their performance showcased her commanding vocals and ability to deliver emotionally engaging live music.
Her achievements include receiving the Best Rookie Vocalist Award at the BSVM Awards, recognising her contribution to South Africa’s contemporary music landscape.
Continuing her momentum in 2026, Thatohatsi expanded her catalogue through collaborations including Mele Bakuzwe with Thakzin and Ama hem hem with Sjava and ShaunMusiQ.
With her distinctive gospel-influenced vocal style, engaging stage presence and rapidly growing catalogue of popular Amapiano releases, Thatohatsi is establishing herself as an exciting performer within South Africa’s contemporary music industry.
Career Highlights & Achievements
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Breakthrough Single – Xolele: Achieved viral recognition through TikTok and established her presence in the Amapiano industry.
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Kabza De Small – Bab’Motha: Featured prominently on several tracks, becoming the album’s most featured vocalist.
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Best Rookie Vocalist Award: Recognised at the BSVM Awards.
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Major Industry Collaborations: Worked with Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, Kelvin Momo, ShaunMusiQ, Major League DJz and Young Stunna.
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Piano City Performance (2025): Featured alongside Tracy on Major League DJz’s live music platform.
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Welile Project: Collaborated with ShaunMusiQ & Ftears and Tracy.
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2026 Music Releases: Collaborations with Thakzin, Sjava and ShaunMusiQ.
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Growing Digital Following: Her music has attracted substantial streaming and social media engagement.
Popular Songs & Collaborations
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Xolele – Ntando Yamahlubi, Mphoet, Blaq Note, Jaz & Thatohatsi
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Ngiyozama – Kabza De Small and collaborators
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Incwadi Yenduduzo – Kabza De Small featuring Thatohatsi
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Bo Gogo – Kelvin Momo, Da Muziqal Chef, Tracy & Thatohatsi
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Abantwana Bakho – DJ Maphorisa, Xduppy, Kabza De Small, Young Stunna, Nkosazana Daughter & Thatohatsi
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Thandaza – Sam Deep & Thatohatsi
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Ama hem hem – Thatohatsi, Sjava & ShaunMusiQ
Performance Style
Thatohatsi delivers an engaging contemporary African music experience, combining soulful, gospel-influenced vocals with the infectious rhythms of Amapiano.
Her performances offer a blend of emotional musical storytelling, melodic arrangements and dance-driven entertainment, making her particularly suitable for audiences seeking authentic South African music with a modern edge.
Ideal for: Corporate year-end celebrations, gala dinners, African-themed events, music festivals, brand activations, lifestyle events, private celebrations and headline Amapiano entertainment.
Booking consideration: Thatohatsi is based in Gauteng. Performance format, accompanying DJ or musicians, technical requirements and travel arrangements should be confirmed when requesting a quotation.
