Moshotle gets DJ Rocco's thumbs up

THATO KALA
Correspondent | Wednesday May 15, 2013 00:00

 

Bukalanga was dubbed the epitome of a new-fangled genre of Tswana House after its release last year. The hit has also attracted international interest with the well-travelled Rocco, DJ Fresh and an unnamed Belgian DJ giving their approval of it.  Interestingly, unlike the traditional House - a South African genre - usually sang in Zulu or English, the track is done in mainly Kalanga.  And it is DJ Rocco, the man based in Spijkenisse, Netherlands, whose endorsement gives a boost to the Gaborone-born DJ.  In fact, the revered Rocco played the track during the 48-hour event in Gaborone late last year.  It was the only local tune he played in his set.

'A man like DJ Rocco approving of my sound is like a dream come true.  I've always wanted something original. Something people can relate to and appreciate.  I really feel I am headed in the right direction,' said Moshotle on Rocco's commendation.He added: 'Rocco told me he plays it in all gigs across the world.  He plays all the way in France.  He said he loves my sound and it is very good.  That really meant a lot.'

The 25-year-old is, however, aware he has to watch his steps and continue working hard. Following the approval, Moshotle had to delay the release of the second single to fine tune it. The second single Wakanaka will feature Apollo Diablo, Samba T and Cybil Nyte.  Moshotle describes it as a 'monster' following the responses he has heard from fans each time he sampled it at events.

Of interest is how the House producer has worked with men popularly known for Hip Hop tunes.  He said: 'It's a monster, it causes havoc each time we try it out.'He revealed the full album will be out on platforms such as iTunes, Amazon and Nokia Ovi.  Moshotle produced Wizards' latest album Azonto to satisfaction as his stock continues to rise.  One of Wizards' founding members Lloyd Mwape hailed Moshotle as Botswana's best House producer.

The talented producer is also excited to have worked with the established outfit. He is credited for breathing life into rookie House starlet, Miss Sushi's music.  The unheralded Miss Sushi (Kozo Mabuta) bungled when releasing her debut album Lovers Of House. She then released a much improved Celebration Time with Moshotle as the producer.  He explains: 'I respect my work and I value my brand, I want to give the best.  I don't want to regret when a song is on radio to say I should have done better.'