South African Afro House producer Prince Kaybee has joined forces with singer-songwriter Ben September for new single “Veliry,” extending the multi-platinum artist’s international push through UK-based PLAYY. Records.
Released on 21 August 2026, the track follows Kaybee’s previous PLAYY. Records single “Heno Babayo” and combines his established Afro House production style with September’s blend of R&B, Afro-pop and soul. The collaboration arrives as South African electronic music continues to build an increasingly international audience.
Prince Kaybee Expands International Reach With ‘Veliry’
Born Kabelo Motsamai, Prince Kaybee has become a prominent figure in South Africa’s dance music industry, with platinum-selling releases including “Club Controller,” “Banomoya” and “Uwrongo.” The latter was included in TIME Magazine’s 10 Best Songs of 2020.
His catalogue also includes collaborations with Lady Zamar, Busiswa, TNS, Shimza, Black Motion and Ami Faku.
The producer’s previous PLAYY. Records release, “Heno Babayo,” secured coverage across several international markets and received UK national radio support through KISS XTRA’s The Afro Electronic Show with Larizzle. In South Africa, it received coverage from IOL and Music In Africa alongside airplay from Metro FM, YFM and Good Hope FM.
Reviewing that release, Mixmag Germany said: “On ‘Heno Babayo’, Prince Kaybee delivers the kind of expansive, emotionally charged Afro-house production that has become synonymous with his sound. Crisp percussion drives the record forward while warm pads, melodic synth work and layered vocal arrangements create a rich and immersive atmosphere.”
YourEDM added: “Rather than chasing current trends, ‘Heno Babayo’ leans into the Afro house sound Prince Kaybee has become known for, pairing rolling percussion with melodic instrumentation and expressive vocal layers.”
From South African DJ Competitions to Award-Winning Career
Kaybee’s career developed through South Africa’s club circuit before a breakthrough in DJ competitions in 2015 helped establish him nationally.
His subsequent career has brought multiple South African Music Awards, including Male Artist of the Year, Best Dance Album and Album of the Year. He has also secured recognition at the Metro FM Music Awards and DStv Mzansi Viewers’ Choice Awards.
International recognition included a Best Collaboration award at Nigeria’s Soundcity MVP Awards Festival for “Gugulethu,” as well as acknowledgement from the African Muzik Magazine Awards.
TIME Magazine previously described “Prince Kaybee and Shimza [are] two of the brightest stars of South Africa’s flourishing house music scene.”
Music Career Followed Earlier Football Ambitions
Before entering the music business, Kaybee had ambitions of pursuing football with Bloemfontein Celtics before a knee injury disrupted those plans.
His musical influences instead developed through his father’s collection of African classics and traditional jazz. His profile expanded significantly in 2015 after success in a SABC 1 DJing and production competition, followed by further recognition and a Listener’s Choice nomination at the MTV Africa Music Awards.
Ben September Brings R&B and Soul Influence to ‘Veliry’
Ben September, from Sasolburg in South Africa’s Free State, brings a different musical background to the collaboration. His work combines Alternative R&B, Afro-pop and soul, with songwriting centred on relationships, vulnerability and self-discovery.
September has previously collaborated with Prince Kaybee, Tyler ICU, KLY, FLVME and The Big Hash. His influences include Brent Faiyaz and Daniel Caesar.
Guitar, Percussion and Vocals Shape New Afro House Track
“Veliry” begins with a flowing guitar passage before gradually developing into an Afro House rhythm. September’s vocals sit over layered percussion, melodic elements and spacious instrumentation, creating a track designed to balance an intimate vocal performance with dancefloor-oriented production.
The sound is positioned to appeal to listeners familiar with artists including Black Coffee, Keinemusik and Zakes Bantwini.
Prince Kaybee shared, “This song is inspired by a beautiful lady named Veliry. She reminds me of a beautiful day of harmonic love songs.”
The release builds on Kaybee’s recent efforts to take his established South African sound further into international markets. With September adding a soul and R&B dimension, “Veliry” represents another cross-genre collaboration as both artists seek to broaden their audiences beyond South Africa.
George Orwell is a writer and contributor covering politics, society, culture, and current affairs. His work focuses on providing clear analysis and thoughtful commentary on the issues shaping modern Britain and the wider world, helping readers better understand complex topics.
