South African rapper Elethu Mpengesi, known as El Nino, has officially dropped his latest track, Ndinje, alongside Mzukhona. This marks a significant shift in El Nino’s musical journey, as the hardcore rapper ventures into more melodic and commercial territory.
Fans of El Nino will remember him as a founding member of the iconic Xhosa hip-hop crew, Driemanskap. As part of the group, he became a pioneer in the Cape Town hip-hop scene, delivering gritty, authentic lyricism that resonated deeply with listeners. However, his decision to part ways with Driemanskap shocked the hip-hop community. Now a solo artist, El Nino is embracing growth and change, channeling his experiences into a fresh sound.
“Ndinje was inspired by my journey as an artist and the struggles we as artists go through,” says El Nino. “When I parted ways with Driemanskap, it wasn’t an easy decision. We started this journey together in high school in 2001, and every moment we shared was monumental. But I had to come to terms with being an individual and make the tough call to explore a solo career. It’s been a journey of growth, accountability, and faith.”
Collaborating with Mzukhona was a natural fit. “Mzukhona has always been keen on a collaboration,” El Nino shares. “When he played me a couple of beats, the one for Ndinje immediately stood out. We were on the same page, and everything fell into place. I believe in God’s timing, and this was the right moment for us to create and release something meaningful.”
Unlike his previous work, Ndinje leans into a melodic style with elements of singing, showcasing a new side of El Nino’s artistry. This evolution reflects his personal and professional growth while staying true to his roots.