Tiisetso Makhele
In 1809, when the young Lepoqo (initiation name Letlama), son of Mokhachane and Kholu, defeated his nemesis, Ramonaheng, he composed a poem; “Ke Moshoeshoe, Moshoashoaila, wa ha Kali, Lebeola, le beotseng Ramonaheng ditedu” (I am Moshoeshoe, the Barber of Kali, the shaver that shaved the beard of Ramonaheng”.
This poetic rendition would define the Basotho in all aspects of life, including in the arts and in music. The praises (dithoko) that each warrior or King would render would be composed of intricate poetic foundations, making it soothing to the ears of the listeners. These poetic foundations, commonly referred to as difela (lifela in Lesotho), would define one’s eloquence.
Having listened to Relebohile Monapathi aka Sannere, I am convinced that he has mastered the art of Basotho poetic lyricism, o betsa difela. He is not merely someone who applies Sesotho words in the American-influenced hip-hop or any genre, he is a Mosotho expressing himself lyrically. This is what, methinks, sets him apart from others. He is indeed artistically peculiar.
His mastery of difela, added to his other attributes, like his signature, richly commandeering voice, characteristic donning of a Basotho blanket and a stick, ability to relate spiritually with his music, self confidence and unique, Famo-inspired stage performance antics, makes him a package that has captured the world musically.
Today, 200 years after the founding of the Basotho nation, we are proud that Sannere Music has not been shy to project his Sotho being into his craft. His love for Basotho spirituality has made him unique.
He chose to name his album ‘Pha-Balimo’ (literally meaning giving to the ancestors), a ritual where Basotho slaughter an animal, especially a sheep, to communicate with their God (Tlatlamatjholo) through the ancestors (Badimo). This is brave and commendable.
I am proud that the young man refused to be swallowed by the dominant cultures, but has used his talents through who he is; a Mosotho..
Pele ya pele, tloholo sa Morena Moshoeshoe.
Makhele is a cultural activist and an African Marxist who writes what he likes. He is a Mosotho, a Mohlakoana!
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