Pretoria, South Africa — The wait is finally over. The Scorpion Kings, Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa, have officially dropped the full line-up for Betway Presents Scorpion Kings Live with Friends, happening Friday, August 29 (2025) at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria.
After weeks of building hype through their viral “Meet Our Friends” series, the Kings sealed the deal with a surprise announcement: African megastar Davido (Nigeria) will join the bill.
“Davido is family. Having him with us makes this a truly continental moment,” said DJ Maphorisa.
Kabza De Small added, “We’ve built this lineup to be history-making — and Davido is the perfect final piece.”
A historic tribute to Caiphus Semenya
In a powerful intergenerational moment, the Kings also confirmed that Caiphus Semenya, one of South Africa’s most revered composers, will be honoured live at the show. Fans can expect a Scorpion Kings remix of one of his timeless classics — blending rich South African musical heritage with the pulsating rhythm of Amapiano.
“This is not only a festival of music, but a celebration of African artistry across generations,” Kabza explained.
The main event: A continental stage explosion
The main stage promises an unmatched line-up of African stars: Ami Faku, Cassper Nyovest, Focalistic, Kamo Mphela, Kwesta, Mafikizolo, Msaki, Mlindo the Vocalist, Nkosazana Daughter, Uhuru, Sjava, and Young Stunna, among dozens of others.
Pre-show performances will keep fans vibing early with the likes of 25K, Blxckie, DBN Gogo, Dlala Thukzin, Christos, and Vinny Da Vinci.
With over 50 acts across two stages, Loftus will transform into the beating heart of Amapiano and African music.
Partnerships elevating the Scorpion Kings Live experience
Beyond the music, Scorpion Kings Live with Friends has secured heavyweight partnerships that make it more than just a concert:
- Betway x the 100 Lives Initiative: Through the Betway Cares Foundation, 100 young South Africans will gain internships in production, logistics, and artist relations.
“The 100 Lives Initiative is about opening doors to real skills, real experience, and access to real opportunities,” said Bakang Lethoko, head of Betway Cares Foundation.
“This isn’t just a show — it’s a movement,” added the Kings.
- GALXBOY merch drop: Fresh off opening their 15th store in Ballito, streetwear giant GALXBOY announced an exclusive limited-edition T-shirt collection for the show.
“Partnering with Scorpion Kings is more than just another merch drop — it’s the growth of the explosive cultural moment we are witnessing right now,” said Thatiso Dube, Founder and Creative Director.
- Metro FM & Converse: As strategic partners, these brands anchor the show’s media and cultural reach, ensuring Loftus feels like the global home of Amapiano.
Buzz before the Show
The build-up has been nothing short of electric. From Young Stunna and Uncool MC leading the viral #SKDanceChallenge at Soweto’s Finest studios, to a tongue-in-cheek “public holiday” declaration by President Ya Straata (Focalistic), the momentum has turned Scorpion Kings Live with Friends into a national cultural event.
The Kings themselves have leaned into nostalgia, marking six years since their debut Scorpion Kings album — the record that changed the course of South African digital music and ignited Amapiano’s global rise.
Tickets selling fast — don’t miss out
Tickets are already selling fast at Webtickets and Pick n Pay stores nationwide, with fans urged to grab theirs before they vanish.
With Davido on the bill, Caiphus Semenya honoured, GALXBOY fashion collabs, Betway’s youth upliftment project, and the genre’s biggest names on one stage, Scorpion Kings Live with Friends promises nothing less than history.
“Only piano can save the country,” Kabza reminded fans during the satirical Straata Gazette announcement — a line that feels more prophetic than ever.
On August 29, the only place to be is Loftus Versfeld.
