Pabi Cooper Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs, BET Nomination & Football Career

Who is Pabi Cooper?

In the vibrant landscape of South African amapiano music, few stars shine as brightly or as uniquely as Pabi Cooper. More than just a singer, Pabi Cooper is a multifaceted entertainer—a platinum-selling recording artist, a captivating dancer, a social media sensation, a qualified football referee, and a television sports presenter . Her journey from the dusty streets of Soshanguve, Pretoria, to the glitz of international award nominations is a testament to talent, resilience, and the ability to pivot when life throws unexpected challenges.

This comprehensive biography delves deep into the life of Paballo Basetsana Mothapo, exploring her early roots, her meteoric rise in the music industry, her undying love for football, and the ambitious plans she holds for the future. By weaving together verified facts and exclusive insights from reputable sources, we present the definitive story of one of Mzansi’s most exciting young talents .

Pabi Cooper: Key Facts at a Glance

Before we dive into her detailed story, here are the essential fast facts about this dynamic star.

Real Name: Paballo Basetsana Mothapo
Stage Name: Pabi Cooper
Date of Birth: March 4, 2001
Age: 24 years old (as of 2026)
Birthplace: Soshanguve, Pretoria, South Africa
Nationality: South African
Occupations: Singer, Songwriter, Dancer, Performer, Social Media Influencer, Football Referee, Sports Presenter
Genres: Amapiano, Afro Tech, Afro House
Record Labels: Cooper Entertainment (Own Label)
Famous Songs: “Isphithiphithi,” “Banyana Ke Bafana,” “Waga Bietjie,” “Dali Wam“
Awards & Nominations: BET Award Nominee (Best International Act), Basadi in Music Award Winner (Song of the Year), Trace Africa Award Nominee
Net Worth: Estimated at $210,000
Current Relationship: Dating musician Benny Afroe (formerly linked to Focalistic)
Social Media: @cooper_pabi (Instagram, Twitter/TikTok)

Early Life and Education: Growing Up in the Heart of Pretoria

Birth and Family Background

Paballo Basetsana Mothapo was born on March 4, 2001, and raised in Soshanguve, a large township north of Pretoria in South Africa’s Gauteng province . Growing up in this vibrant community, she was immersed in a rich culture of music, dance, and a deep-seated passion for football that would come to define her dual career.

While details about her parents remain private, it’s evident that Pabi was raised in a supportive environment that nurtured her artistic and athletic ambitions. She has spoken fondly of her roots, often carrying the spirit of Pretoria with her and serving as an unofficial ambassador for her city. Her heritage is a source of pride, and she remains deeply connected to the community that shaped her .

Education and Early Interests

Pabi attended local schools in Soshanguve, where her energetic and creative nature quickly found outlets. From a very young age, she demonstrated a love for writing songs and performing, participating in school festivals and local events where she could showcase her talents .

However, her first great love was unequivocally football. At school, she didn’t just play for fun; she was deeply committed. Pabi served as the Head of Sports at her high school, a leadership role that foreshadowed her future ambitions . On the field, she was a formidable presence, primarily playing as a goalkeeper. Her passion was so profound that she harbored dreams of becoming a professional referee and pursued certification, eventually qualifying as a referee . After matriculating, her ambition was to study Sports Communication at the University of Johannesburg to forge a career in sports presenting .

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The Turning Point: From Football Dreams to a Music Career

The COVID-19 Pandemic Disruption

Like millions of people worldwide, Pabi Cooper’s meticulously planned future was upended by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. With football leagues suspended, training grounds empty, and her dreams of pursuing sports communication at university put on hold, she found herself at a crossroads .

For an aspiring athlete, the lockdown could have been a crushing blow. But for Pabi, it became the catalyst for a new beginning. The pause in sports forced her to look inward and explore other creative avenues. As she later reflected, the closure of one door led her to discover another, one that would ultimately lead to international stardom .

Rise as a TikTok and Social Media Sensation

During the national lockdown, like many Gen Zers, Pabi turned to social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram for entertainment and connection. She began creating and posting videos of herself dancing to popular tracks, showcasing quick, energetic, and fluid dance moves that were impossible to ignore .

Her natural charisma and undeniable talent for choreography resonated with a massive audience stuck at home and hungry for fresh, authentic content. It wasn’t long before her follower count exploded. She went from being an unknown student to a social media sensation, with thousands captivated by her infectious energy. This newfound online fame became the springboard for her music career, as it put her on the radar of established artists and industry insiders .

Music Career: The Rise of a Platinum-Selling Amapiano Star

Debut and Breakthrough: “Isphithiphithi”

Buoyed by her social media success, Pabi Cooper decided to take a leap of faith. In 2021, she stepped into a recording studio for the first time, a move she describes as almost spontaneous. “One random day, I decided to go to the studio, where I eventually recorded my first single,” she told News24 .

That single was “Isphithiphithi,” a high-energy amapiano track that would change her life forever. Released on August 6, 2021, via Ama Roto Entertainment, the song became an instant phenomenon . Its infectious beat, combined with Pabi’s unique vocal delivery and the viral dance challenges that accompanied it on TikTok, propelled the track to the top of the charts. “Isphithiphithi” was a commercial juggernaut, achieving Platinum status in just a few months by selling over 20,000 units in South Africa . The song’s success was so immense that Pabi herself admitted she didn’t expect to “get it right the first time” .

The “Cooperville” EP and Chart-Topping Hits

Following the earth-shattering success of her debut, Pabi Cooper proved she was no one-hit-wonder. In 2022, she released her debut EP, titled “Cooperville,” a project that featured collaborations with some of South Africa’s biggest musical acts .

The EP spawned several massive hits that solidified her position in the amapiano hierarchy.

“Banyana Ke Bafana”: Featuring LuuDadeejay and Nobantu Vilakazi, this track became an anthem. Its title, a nod to the South African women’s national football team, perfectly encapsulated Pabi’s dual passions. The song was another Platinum success, selling over 20,000 units in weeks and earning her the Basadi in Music Award for Song of the Year in 2022 . With over 4.6 million plays, it remains one of her most streamed tracks .
“Waga Bietjie” (feat. Mellow & Sleazy): This track was “another trophy under her belt,” further proving her consistency and her ability to create hit after hit . Its popularity sparked numerous dance challenges on social media, reinforcing Pabi’s musical trajectory .
“Bambelela”: Released under Universal Music, this track also surpassed 3.5 million streams, showcasing her broad appeal .

Her 2023 single, “Dali Wam” (feat. Nkosazana Daughter) , was another monumental success, racking up over 4.3 million streams and becoming a fan favorite . With each release, Pabi Cooper demonstrated an uncanny knack for creating music that resonates deeply with the South African public.

International Recognition: BET Award Nomination

Pabi Cooper’s impact quickly transcended South African borders. In 2023, she received the ultimate validation of her rising international status: a nomination for Best International Act at the prestigious BET Awards .

She was nominated alongside fellow South Africans K.O and Uncle Waffles, a moment that brought the amapiano genre into a global spotlight. For Pabi, the nomination was a surreal, dream-come-true moment. “From Pitori straight to BET awards,” she tweeted, capturing the emotion of her journey . She celebrated the nomination in a uniquely heartfelt way by organizing an impromptu party for students in Pretoria, thanking them for their support and votes . Although she didn’t win, the nomination cemented her status as a “force to be reckoned with” on the world stage and earned her a nomination for a Trace Africa Award as well .

Football: The First Love That Never Faded

A Qualified Referee and Goalkeeper

While her music career skyrocketed, Pabi Cooper never abandoned her first love. Her deep-seated knowledge of football goes far beyond that of a casual fan. She is a qualified football referee, having pursued certification alongside her athletic pursuits in high school .

Her experience as a player, particularly as a goalkeeper, and her training as an official give her a unique, authoritative perspective on the game . This credibility was on full display when critics questioned her appointment as a sports presenter; her supporters were quick to point out her four years of playing experience and her referee qualifications, proving she was more than deserving of the role .

Cooper FC Shutdown: Merging Two Worlds

Pabi Cooper’s genius lies in her ability to synthesize her two passions. She doesn’t see football and music as separate entities but as interconnected parts of her identity. This vision is most vividly realized in her signature event series, Cooper FC Shutdown .

These unique shows are a groundbreaking fusion of football culture and live music performance. They bring together elements of the beautiful game—like match-day atmosphere, team spirit, and fan culture—with the high-energy spectacle of an amapiano concert. It’s an immersive experience designed for her fans, creating a space where both worlds collide .

Sports Presenting: Good Morning Qatar on SABC 1

In November 2022, Pabi Cooper achieved another major milestone in her sporting career. She was announced as a sports presenter for the SABC 1 morning show, “Good Morning Qatar,” which aired daily during the 2022 FIFA World Cup .

This role was the culmination of a dream she had harbored since her teenage years. To prove just how long-held this ambition was, Pabi shared a screenshot of a direct message she had sent to renowned South African sports broadcaster Lindiwe Nxumalo back in 2019. In the message, an 18-year-old Pabi humbly asked for advice on what qualifications she would need to become a sports presenter. Three years later, she was living that dream on national television, a powerful reminder of the power of intention and hard work .

The Dream: Owning a Football Club

Pabi Cooper’s ambitions in the world of football do not stop at presenting or refereeing. She has her sights set on a far more ambitious goal: establishing her own football club. She envisions a future where she can create an institution that nurtures young talent and gives back to the community, much like her idols have done .

“For now, as I have been doing, I will continue to incorporate it in my music videos and my performances,” she told The Yanos Magazine, “My ultimate goal in wanting to combine the two entities is to establish my own football club in the future” .

Personal Life, Relationships, and Lifestyle

Who is Pabi Cooper Dating?

Pabi Cooper’s personal life has been a topic of much interest and speculation among her fans. Her love life first became public gossip when she was romantically linked to fellow amapiano superstar Focalistic. Rumors swirled that they had begun dating while he was still in a relationship with DJ DBN Gogo. However, both parties have largely denied these claims, with Focalistic maintaining they are just friends and collaborators .

As of 2026, Pabi Cooper is reportedly in a relationship with singer, songwriter, and producer Benny Afroe . The two share a deep connection through their mutual love for music and have collaborated on tracks together, including a song titled “Do It Right.” Their relationship appears to be a meeting of creative minds, supporting each other’s artistic journeys .

Fashion, Tattoos, and Public Image

Beyond her musical talents, Pabi Cooper is celebrated as a fashion icon and trendsetter. She possesses a unique and colorful style that is a direct reflection of her bubbly and bold personality. She loves to experiment with different outfits, from striking accessories to bold hairstyles, never afraid to push the boundaries of fashion. Her look is distinctly her own, and she has become an influential figure for young South Africans looking to express themselves through style .

She also has a tattoo of a butterfly on her left arm, a symbol often associated with transformation, beauty, and new beginnings—a fitting emblem for an artist whose life has been defined by a beautiful metamorphosis from athlete to international star .

Brand Ambassadorships and Endorsements

As her star has risen, so too has her commercial appeal. Pabi Cooper has inked lucrative deals with major brands, adding significantly to her income. One of her most notable partnerships is with Shield, one of South Africa’s most popular antiperspirant deodorant brands. Becoming a brand ambassador for a household name like Shield was a significant milestone, signaling her crossover appeal and marketability beyond the music industry . These endorsements, combined with music sales, performances, and streaming revenue, have contributed to her estimated net worth of $210,000 .

Pabi Cooper’s Impact and Influence

The Connection Between Football and Music

Pabi Cooper frequently speaks about the philosophical connections between football and music. She believes both disciplines require the same core principles to achieve greatness: collaboration, discipline, and consistency .

In football, a team must work together fluidly, passing the ball and supporting one another to score a goal. In music, an artist collaborates with producers, fellow vocalists, and dancers to create a hit. Both require relentless practice, extreme discipline, and the consistency to show up and perform at the highest level, day after day. For Pabi, merging these two worlds is not a gimmick; it’s a natural progression of her core identity and values .

Fan Base and Social Media Presence

Pabi Cooper’s connection with her fans, whom she calls her “supporters,” is remarkably strong. She maintains an active and engaging presence on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) .

Her authenticity shines through in her interactions. Whether she’s sharing behind-the-scenes content from the studio, celebrating a nomination with students, or posting her latest fashion looks, she remains relatable. This genuine connection has fostered a loyal community that actively supports her music, attends her shows, and defends her against online criticism . Her streaming numbers on platforms like Spotify are a testament to this support, with hundreds of thousands of monthly listeners tuning in from cities across South Africa and beyond, including Nairobi, Kenya .

Future Plans and Upcoming Projects

Musical Evolution and Collaborations

Pabi Cooper is an artist who refuses to be boxed in. While she has found immense success in the amapiano genre, she has expressed a strong desire to explore other musical landscapes. She has her sights set on collaborating with international superstars, naming Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Cardi B as dream collaborators. She admires their authenticity and their ability to successfully introduce their unique sounds to a global audience .

In her own work, she plans to introduce different influences, experimenting with Afro beats and hip-hop to create a more diverse and eclectic sound. Her goal is to keep evolving, ensuring her music stays fresh and exciting .

Expanding the Cooper FC Shutdown Brand

Given the success of her Cooper FC Shutdown events, it’s highly likely that Pabi will look to expand this brand. Whether through larger, more frequent events, merchandise, or even grassroots football initiatives tied to the name, the concept has massive potential for growth. It’s the perfect vehicle to drive her toward her ultimate goal of owning a football club, allowing her to build a community and a brand that bridges both of her worlds .

Pabi Cooper’s Discography and Achievements

Hit Songs and Key Tracks

Isphithiphithi (2021) – Platinum-selling debut single
Banyana Ke Bafana (feat. LuuDadeejay and Nobantu Vilakazi) – Platinum, Basadi in Music Award Winner
Thanda Kanjani (with DJ Maphorisa, Zuma & Reece Madlisa) (2021)
Bambelela (2022)
MAMA (feat. Khanyisa, Yumbs and Liebah) (2022)
Waga Bietjie (feat. Mellow & Sleazy) (2022)
Dali Wam (feat. Nkosazana Daughter) (2023)
Down Low (2023)
Jukulyn (2023)
Thula Mabota (2024)

Awards and Nominations

Basadi in Music Award: Winner, Song of the Year (“Banyana Ke Bafana”)
BET Awards: Nominee, Best International Act (2023)
Trace Africa Awards: Nominee (2024)

Streaming Statistics (as of 2025)

Monthly Listeners: ~685,000+
Top City: Johannesburg (186,647 listeners)
Total Streams for “Banyana Ke Bafana”: 4.6 million+

Conclusion: The Future Looks Bright for Pabi Cooper

Pabi Cooper’s story is far from over. In just a few short years, she has transformed from a high school head of sports with a dream into a platinum-selling, internationally recognized amapiano superstar and television presenter. She has navigated the disruption of a global pandemic, the pressures of sudden fame, and the scrutiny of the public eye with a grace and determination that belies her youth.

What makes Pabi Cooper truly special is her refusal to let one passion diminish another. She is a powerful role model for a generation that refuses to be defined by a single label. She is a singer, a dancer, a referee, a presenter, and a businesswoman.

As she continues to release new music, build her Cooper FC brand, and set her sights on owning a football club, one thing is certain: Pabi Cooper is a name we will be hearing for years to come. She embodies the vibrant, resilient, and endlessly creative spirit of modern South Africa. With her feet planted firmly in the streets of Pretoria and her eyes fixed on the global stage, Pabi Cooper is, and will continue to be, a force to be reckoned with.