On This Segment Of What They Saaay?!
In
the ever-evolving landscape of the Botswana music industry, the story of Lioness Ratang
has become a topic of great discussion and debate. As a young artist signed
under the esteemed Makhadzi Entertainment
label, Lioness has found herself in a peculiar situation – one where her
undeniable talent and success have not necessarily translated into the bookings
and opportunities one might expect.
Lioness
recently took to her social media platforms to share that her hit song ‘Nako Tsele’
with Casswell
P has become one of the biggest tracks in the country. Yet, despite
this impressive achievement, she has expressed her frustration at the lack of
performance bookings she has received.
The
responses to Lioness’s revelation have been a mixed bag, to say the least. On
the one hand, there has been an outpouring of support, with fans and fellow
artists rallying behind her and even offering to cover the costs of her
bookings so that she can take the stage. This heartwarming display of
camaraderie and community spirit is a testament to the power of unity in our
industry.
However,
the negative feedback that Lioness has received is truly disheartening. Some
have gone as far as to tell her that she must ‘work harder,’ while others have
resorted to banter, arguing that the industry is ‘no one’s friend’ and that no
one owes her bookings. This type of attitude, rooted in a lack of empathy,
speaks volumes about the challenges that artists like Lioness face.
What
@UnderKoverSkelm found particularly concerning is the notion that the spirit of
‘Botho/Ubuntu’ – the quintessential
African philosophy of humanity and interdependence – is slowly fading away from
our industry. The idea that we should work together and build each other up,
because ‘motho ke motho ka batho’,
seems to be losing ground to a more individualistic and cutthroat mentality.
As
we reflect on Lioness Ratang’s situation, it’s crucial that we, as a creative
community, take a step back and re-evaluate our priorities. Success should not
be a zero-sum game, where one person’s triumph is seen as a threat to others.
Instead, we should strive to create an environment where talent and hard work
are rewarded, regardless of an artist’s age, gender, or background.
It
is time for us to reclaim the spirit of Botho/Ubuntu, to embrace and uplift our
fellow creatives, and to remember that our collective growth and prosperity are
linked. Only then can we truly say that we are building an industry that works
for everyone, not just a few.
Watch ‘Nako Tsele’ Below
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