Makwa Shares The Unexpected Story Behind The Making Of “Ilanga” Featuring Kwesta & Bontle RSA
Makwa Shares The Unexpected Story Behind The Making Of “Ilanga” Featuring Kwesta & Bontle RSA. Some of South Africa’s biggest songs are born from carefully planned studio sessions, while others come together through moments that nobody could have predicted. For producer Makwa, the story behind “Ilanga” falls firmly into the latter category.
Reflecting on how the song came to life, Makwa revealed that it all started during a period when he was living in modest circumstances and working tirelessly on new music.
“I was making the beat while staying at the park,” he recalled. “Bontle was passing by. I didn’t have curtains in my studio, so he saw me working.”
That unexpected glimpse into Makwa‘s creative process changed everything.
Curious about what he had heard, Bontle walked over, knocked on the apartment door and introduced himself.
“He asked me if I’m Makwa. I said yes. Then he said, ‘Let me work with you.’ And that’s how we made the song.”
What began as a spontaneous studio session quickly developed into something much bigger. After the initial recording, Makwa believed the record had the potential to become a hit and decided to take it to one of South African hip hop’s biggest names.
“I took the song to Kwesta, and then Kwesta jumped on the song. That’s how ‘Ilanga’ was born.”
The collaboration came together naturally, with each artist contributing to a track that would go on to resonate with fans. From a producer crafting beats in a simple studio with uncovered windows, to an unexpected visitor becoming a collaborator, and finally Kwesta adding his unmistakable touch, the song’s journey was anything but conventional.
Makwa’s story is a reminder that great music doesn’t always come from elaborate plans or expensive recording spaces. Sometimes all it takes is an open window, someone willing to knock on the door, and artists ready to create in the moment.
For Makwa, Bontle and Kwesta, that chance encounter became the beginning of “Ilanga,” proving that some of the most memorable records are created when opportunity arrives unannounced.
