Amapiano producer Stixx is paying tribute to one of South Africa’s greatest musical icons with the release of Market Place 2.0, a contemporary reimagining of Hugh Masekela’s timeless classic, Marketplace.
The new release bridges generations by introducing Masekela’s celebrated song to a younger audience through Stixx’s signature Kwapi-inspired Amapiano sound while preserving the heart and soul of the original recording.
For Stixx, born Samuel Seloane, the project is more than just another release. It is a deeply personal tribute inspired by his late father, whose love for Hugh Masekela’s music helped shape his own appreciation of South African music.
“Market Place 2.0 is deeply personal,” Stixx said. “The record stands as both a celebration of family and a tribute to one of South Africa’s most influential cultural figures.”
Rather than completely reinventing the classic, Stixx chose to honour its original spirit by retaining Masekela’s unmistakable vocals, trumpet melodies and guitar arrangements while layering them with rich Amapiano production.
“The result is a record that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly current, honouring the emotional weight and musical brilliance of the original while creating space for a new generation of listeners to connect with its story,” he said.
The remake also features vocalist The Bless, one of Amapiano’s most in-demand collaborators, known for his work alongside Russell Zuma, Gaba Cannal, Thatohatsi and CowBoii. His soulful vocals add another emotional layer to the song, creating what the producers describe as “a genuine collaboration between generations, honouring the past while embracing the present.”
Still only in his early twenties, Stixx has quickly emerged as one of Amapiano’s brightest young talents. Raised in Kwa-Thema, his musical journey began behind the drums in church before he taught himself music production. Drawing inspiration from gospel, deep house and Afro-soul, he eventually caught the attention of DJ and producer DBN Gogo, who signed him to Zikode Records.
Since then, he has earned recognition for his production work on Kelvin Momo’s acclaimed album Amukelani and has released his own projects, including Test of Time, Jazz Cruise Series Vol. 1 and Kings of Kwapi Vol. 1.
By revisiting one of Hugh Masekela’s most treasured recordings, Stixx is continuing a long-standing South African tradition of celebrating musical heritage while introducing it to new audiences.
Widely regarded as the father of South African jazz, Masekela used his music to tell the story of the country’s struggle for freedom, resilience and hope. Decades after its original release, Marketplace remains one of his most enduring songs, and through Market Place 2.0, its message finds a new home on today’s dance floors.
With the release, Stixx not only delivers another standout Amapiano offering but also demonstrates how classic South African music can continue to evolve without losing the legacy that made it timeless.
