Makwa continues to make his mark on South Africa’s music scene, proving once again that his creativity cannot be confined to a single genre. The acclaimed producer and artist recently sat down with Hip Hop SA, where he opened up about the story behind “Ilanga,” his collaboration with Kwesta and Boontle RSA that continues to make waves.
Speaking about the origins of the song, Makwa explained that “Ilanga” was created during a period when he was exploring Amapiano. At the time, he was staying in Fourways after being invited by the gents to come and live there. Makwa said he had already been experimenting with different sounds, particularly House music, and wanted to explore a new musical space.
“When I made Ilanga” I was in Fourways, the gents called to come and live there. It was music that I was always doing when I wanted to get into the space of Amapiano because they told me I’ve already done House music. So, I did the “Ilanga” beat and Boontle heard the beat while he was passing, he saw a studio that didn’t have a curtain and saw that it’s me and he knocked and praised my work and I didn’t waste time, I told him to get to work,” Makwa explained.
He revealed that the track was part of his efforts to transition into Amapiano after people around him told him that he had already established himself through House music. With that encouragement in mind, he created the beat that would eventually become “Ilanga.”
Weeks later, while Makwa and the team were wrapping up “Big Bro Theory,” “Kwesta came to record, while I was doing Amapiano and also catering for his album. I played the beat for him and he said he likes the song and he will also come out of his shell and try something new and have fun,” Makwa recalled.
That moment brought the three artists together and helped shape “Ilanga” into the song fans know today.
For Makwa, releasing the track was also about showing his versatility. He wanted listeners to understand that although he can create in the Amapiano space, he is not interested in being restricted to one sound.
“Ilanga” ultimately became another standout addition to Makwa’s impressive catalogue, showcasing his ability to experiment while bringing different artists and musical worlds together.
