FOR more than three decades Trompies have stood as one of South Africa’s most influential musical forces.
Their roots run deep in the townships that shaped them.
Their sound sparked a movement that defined an era.
Their voices became part of the social fabric of a country in transition.
From their debut in 1994, the group carved a unique sonic identity layered with African textures, deep bass lines, percussive loops and lyrics delivered proudly in vernacular. They captured the stories of everyday people and transformed Kwaito from a genre into a cultural statement.
Even after releasing more than twelve albums, earning multiple platinum certifications and reaching over a million sales, Trompies continue to be driven by the same heartbeat that birthed them.
Their new single “Lilizela” arrives as a reminder of the group’s timeless place in South African music and the power they still hold to unite listeners across generations.
Featuring powerhouses, Nokwazi, Kwesta and Stoan, the song carries the unmistakable Trompies formula that has endured through the years.
Built on infectious repetition and a warm sing along hook, “Lilizela” brings together an authentic kwaito core with subtle elements of modern piano influences. It is a song designed to stir memory and movement. Its very essence is rooted in celebration and the energy of wedding season where kwaito has always reigned as a soundtrack of joy and community.
The creation of “Lilizela” revived the spirit of collaboration that has long defined Trompies.
Finding the perfect groove between the producers and featured artists was central to capturing the emotion they envisioned. The result is a record that honours their origins while expanding their sound into a space that resonates with both loyal fans and a new wave of listeners.
Trompies have always understood the value of evolution without abandoning identity.
“Lilizela” stands firmly in that lineage. It blends their signature kwaito feel with new age Afro pop influences introduced by its featured voices and in doing so reaffirms that the genre and its pioneers continue to influence South African music with authority.
The release of “Lilizela” also marks the official pre add to their forthcoming EP “Pantsula 4 Life” set for release on 30 January 2026.
The EP brings together an impressive roster of collaborators including Vetkuk vs Mahoota, Kwesta, Kabza De Small, TOSS, Reece Madlisa, Dr Lamandro, Nokwazi and more.
It is a body of work that celebrates homegrown sound while carrying forward the legacy of a group that has shaped the identity of Kwaito for more than thirty years.
“Lilizela” is a declaration that Trompies remain an essential thread in South Africa’s musical story. It is a reminder that the dance floors they once ignited still belong to them.
It is a celebration of a genre that continues to inspire. As the world looks toward the release of “Pantsula 4 Life”, Trompies step into this new chapter with the same pride, purpose and passion that have always defined them.
Image supplied (Defying the odds. Soweto’s all-time favourite Trompies has released its latest Lilizela).
