A South African vocal group from the Eastern Cape is taking the traditional sound of gwijo to audiences around the world, after its music gained millions of views on TikTok.
Culture Motion and Pro Tee have built an international following through their distinctive sound, with their viral track Ingoma Ezimnandi (iGwijo) officially released on 16 October 2026.
The song’s sound has reportedly generated more than 200 million views on TikTok, reaching listeners far beyond South Africa, including audiences in France.
Culture Motion began with three members before growing into a 13-member vocal group made up of performers from different parts of the Eastern Cape.
Formed in September 2025 by Avuyonke Poni, Limnandi Dyan and Aqhama Msuthu, the group says its music is rooted in the sounds they grew up with at home, at ceremonies and during celebrations.
Their approach combines traditional gwijo with AmaQubulo, bringing harmonies, energy and a contemporary approach to communal singing.
The group first gained significant attention through Uzumgcine Umama, which began trending on TikTok before Culture Motion had mainstream recognition or a record label behind it.
The song, performed in isiXhosa, carries a heartfelt message asking God to protect one’s mother and bless her with beautiful songs.
For the group, the response has demonstrated the ability of social media to take a distinctly South African sound beyond its traditional audience.
Culture Motion says listeners from outside the Eastern Cape have discovered its music through TikTok, while international reactions have shown the group that AmaQubulo can connect across language and geographical barriers.
The group has now signed with Asanda Empires, marking a new chapter in its journey.
The label’s talent manager, Naledi Zibi, said the company wants to support the group’s growth and help take its sound to wider audiences.
Ingoma Ezimnandi (iGwijo) runs for four minutes and 19 seconds. The track was produced and engineered by Thabiso Nkosi, with Avile Mfaxa serving as assistant producer and engineer. It was recorded at Asanda Empires Studios.
Culture Motion says its ambitions now extend beyond the viral moment. The group plans to release a debut album, collaborate with established artists and take AmaQubulo to international stages.
Despite the growing attention, the group says it wants to remain connected to the culture that shaped its sound.
“We don’t just sing,” Culture Motion says. “We bring energy, harmony and a modern twist to traditional music.”
With Ingoma Ezimnandi (iGwijo) now officially available, Culture Motion is hoping to turn a viral moment into a lasting career — while showing the world how far a South African voice can travel.
Main Image: Supplied
