Jazz poet starts reaping his fruits

Thato Kala | Thursday October 31, 2013 15:39

 

However, he never thought his poetic gift would turn into an album one day. “After discovering poetry was a stronger passion, I started writing and reciting poems at school.  But I only thought of making out an album in 2004,” he says.  Kgotlayame had to endure a lengthy eight-year wait before releasing an album.

“I did not have enough material to make an album but I was strongly convinced it was the right step,” he says. He says leaving football was no big deal and his local hero is Benson Phuthego.

“Other than Mzwakhe Mbuli from South Africa, I draw a lot of inspiration from how Benson Phuthego entered the music scene.  He is one of the artists I admire locally,” the 36-year-old says.

Kgotlayame’s path in the entertainment industry has not been as smooth as he expected.  Days after releasing the six-track album, My Brother, he was involved in an accident where one his dancers died.  This temporarily halted the promotion of the album.

“After the accident, I sat down and reflected on everything and realised I had to be grateful to God that I survived a fatal accident.  I knew I could not blame myself for what happened because God is ever in control.  It happened for a reason,” he explains.

One of his tracks in the album, Oak Tree is a tribute to God: “It is a poem of appreciation and love for God because of all He has done in my life.”  The Molepolole-born artist makes his maiden public appearance when he performs in Sojwe this weekend.

“I am a competitor and people should expect a good show. I have the best dancers and we will put out a memorable performance,” he says.  He will belt out songs from his album that include Boiling Pot, Two Gifted Liars and Heartless Killer, a track that talks about the HIV/AIDS.  The song Two Gifted Liars looks likely to brew controversy as he delves into the CKGR versus government battle.

“I think the government is right to move Basarwa from CKGR because times have changed and the argument that it is their ancestral land does not hold any weight. Government wants them to live better and improved lives,” he says.  He hopes government will endorse the song Heartless Killer and use it in the HIV/AIDS campaigns.

“Overall, the feedback has been good, and I notice most Zimbabweans have enjoyed the song I Love You Zimbabwe.  I did it to encourage them that things will be back to normal in their country one day.”

The poet is a firm believer that first impressions last and is convinced his debut album is top notch.

“I think the most important thing is to invest in your music.  There is no way you can get results without investing into your music,” he says.  The album was recorded at Tshepo Lesole’s Hi-Note Studios with jazz-gospel trailblazer, Suggie Fisher featuring as a back-up vocalist.  Kgotlayame says the duo’s involvement in the album added to its value.