Award-winning South African producer and DJ Prince Kaybee has entered a new phase of his career with the release of his latest single, “Heno Babayo,” marking his first official release under international electronic music label PLAYY. Records.
For the acclaimed hitmaker, the partnership represents far more than a label change. It signals a fresh creative direction built on artistic freedom, long-term growth and a shared vision for the future of Afro-house music.
Speaking about the move, Prince Kaybee explained that he was drawn to PLAYY. Records because of its commitment to developing artists rather than simply following industry trends.
“The move to PLAYY. Records is inspired by how PLAYY. is willing to grow with the music. We live in a time where labels focus on trends and not build something to be trendy,” he said.
The transition follows a successful chapter with Universal Music South Africa, where Prince Kaybee established himself as one of the country’s most influential dance music producers. Over the years, he delivered a string of chart-topping hits including “Club Controller,” “Banomoya,” and “Uwrongo,” songs that helped shape the sound of contemporary South African house music.
His impressive catalogue has featured collaborations with some of the industry’s biggest names, including Lady Zamar, Busiswa, TNS, Shimza, Black Motion, Ami Faku, Nokwazi, Azana and Gemma Griffiths. His productions have consistently blended infectious rhythms with emotional storytelling, earning him numerous awards and a loyal fan base across Africa and beyond.
As Afro-house and Afro-tech continue to gain global recognition, Prince Kaybee believes the genre has entered an exciting period where African producers are influencing dance music on an international scale. Rather than chasing commercial success, he remains focused on creating timeless music that resonates with listeners.
“My role is just to be part of a moving vehicle, creating as many sonic memories as I possibly can,” he said.
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That philosophy is reflected in “Heno Babayo,” a track that showcases his signature polished production while embracing a cleaner, more electronic Afro-tech sound. The single also serves as the lead release from his upcoming album, giving fans an early glimpse into the musical direction of his next body of work.
Prince Kaybee has previously revealed that he is gradually moving away from the guitar-driven melodies that defined many of his earlier hits. Instead, he is exploring richer electronic textures, atmospheric synths and deeper Afro-tech influences that align with his artistic evolution.
He has often described music as a form of healing, saying he wants every release to leave a lasting emotional impact rather than becoming a short-lived viral hit. His goal is to create songs that accompany life’s biggest moments and remain meaningful years after their release.
Beyond music, Prince Kaybee has also embraced personal growth through endurance sports. Earlier this year, he completed an extraordinary three-day cycling challenge from Johannesburg to Durban, covering more than 600 kilometres despite freezing temperatures, strong winds and physically demanding conditions. The challenge reflected the discipline and resilience that have become central to both his personal life and career.
Having spent more than a decade at the forefront of South African dance music, Prince Kaybee says he is energised by this new chapter. With fresh ideas, international opportunities and several collaborations already in the works, he believes his best music may still be ahead.
“It’s an exciting chapter, and ideas are flowing. I have a couple of exciting collaborations with amazing artists for everyone to look forward to.”
As he embarks on this new journey with PLAYY. Records, Prince Kaybee is determined to continue pushing creative boundaries while flying the South African flag on the global electronic music stage.
