Gaba Cannal, born Khaka Yena, is a South African music producer and DJ renowned for his distinct and soulful approach to Amapiano. His stage name, “Gaba Cannal,” which translates roughly into Portuguese as “Let It Be,” reflects his relaxed and effortless style in both his music and personal demeanor. Gaba Cannal has carved out a significant space in the Amapiano genre with his deep and smooth beats, earning him recognition both locally and internationally. His productions are known for their rich, melodic, and soulful vibes, making him a standout figure in the Amapiano music scene.

Early Life

Gaba Cannal was born on July 6, 1995, in Daveyton, Gauteng, but later moved to the east of Johannesburg, where his passion for music started. At 30 years old now, he finished his early education at Siyalakha Christian School and graduated from Fumana High School. It was during these years that he developed a strong interest in music production, which eventually led him to become a well-known figure in the South African Amapiano scene. His unique style blends soulful house sounds with Amapiano, helping him stand out in the music industry.

Career

Khaka Yena, known by his stage name Gaba Cannal, is a South African music producer and DJ famous for his soulful style of Amapiano. His name, “Gaba Cannal,” comes from Portuguese and translates to “Let It Be,” which perfectly fits his smooth and relaxed musical vibe. Born in Daveyton, Gauteng, Gaba later moved to the east of Johannesburg, where he completed his education and began exploring music production. He attended Siyalakha Christian School and finished his studies at Fumana High School. Gaba’s love for music showed early on, and by the time he was 18, he had already started producing music, initially focusing on hip-hop and playing the piano.

In 2014, Gaba Cannal made a significant entry into the music scene with the release of his EP “Abundance,” which opened many doors for him. That same year, he also started his own independent record label, Gaba Cannal Music Pty-Ltd, taking full control of his career and creative journey. As time passed, Gaba’s impact on the Amapiano genre grew, and in 2018, he featured on Da Kruk’s single “Magic,” which was nominated for Best Underground Record of the Year at the South African Music Awards.

The year 2020 was a milestone for Gaba Cannal. He worked with South African singer Busiswa on the popular track “Umhlaba Wonke,” which highlighted his talent for blending soulful house and Amapiano. In the same year, he released his album “Amapiano Legacy,” solidifying his status as a key figure in the genre. His single “Hold On” even made it to No. 10 on Good Hope FM’s SA House Music Top 10 Chart, further adding to his growing list of achievements.

Gaba Cannal has performed with many well-known South African artists like DJ Ganyani, Vinny Da Vinci, MFR Souls, and DJ Clock. His influence stretches beyond South Africa, having shared the stage with international artists such as Ralf GUM and Nick Holder, and toured in countries like Eswatini. On November 25, 2020, Gaba Cannal announced the release of his much-awaited album “Statement,” showing his commitment to pushing the boundaries of Amapiano music.

Throughout his career, Gaba Cannal’s unique sound and entrepreneurial spirit have set him apart in the music industry. His ability to blend various musical styles while keeping the soulful essence of Amapiano has earned him respect both locally and globally.

Songs

• Abundance EP (2014)
• Between Emotions EP (2018)
• Injabulo EP (2018)
• Suit And Tie II EP (2019)
• Amapiano Love Affair (2020)
• Amapiano Legacy (2020)
• Suit & Tie Episode III EP (2020)
• Great I Am (2020)
• Visionary Episode 1 (2021)
• Agape (2022)
• Deepest Gratitude (2022)
• Thetha Nabo Mfundisi (2023)
• Baw’Yena (2024)