01 Feb 2021

Queen of Gospel,  Tebogo Sethomo has been described as epitome of hard work who had a strong love for her musical craft.

At a memorial service attended by family, government officials, industry leaders and fans in her honour in Gaborone on January 30, Tebbie as was affectionately known, was depicted as a god fearing woman who was always willing to pass on  her knowledge to aspiring artists.

Tebbie, who passed away on January 22,  started her music journey in 2004 at Jam in Christ and released her first solo project titled Maleo Ame the following year.

Her younger sister, Malebogo Metsing, described her as a virtuous woman, who loved gospel music.

She said it was such love that endeared Tebbie her crown as the Queen of gospel and being recognised as the most popular artist in the first Presidential Awards.

“She was resolute in everything she put her mind into, but one attribute that I will always remember her with is her ever smiling nature, her laughter was distinct unmistakable and a joy to listen to,” she expressed.

Mahalapye East MP Yandani Boko, urged the nation especially the creative industry to pick up where Tebbie had left off and continue the good fight. 

He urged the church and artists to help in fighting  social ills especially Gender Based violence.

Acclaimed kwaito kwasa star, Odirile Vee Sento, described Tebbie as a ‘hustler’ who was not afraid to make her presence felt. 

“The nation has lost a legend and heaven has gained. Only God would understand and may he comfort us all,” he said

Association of Gospel Musicians Botswana president, Vusumuzi Botshelo, remembered Tebbie as a determined woman with tenacity and resilience in all her works. 

“Therefore, the association celebrates her today as she was a self-representation of what this nation needs. And she will remain a resemblance of Jesus Christ,” he said.

Other speakers described Tebbie as an inspiration and a light to other artists and did not shy away from her craft. 

Amongst her various accolades, was her association with the National Blood Transfusion Center and Ave Maria Sisters.

She also was the official musician for the Botswana Democratic Party where she composed campaign and victory songs for the Party, with Re ikana ka yone being the popular song. 

A nation has surely lost a giant in the gospel fraternity.  

 

May her soul rest in eternal peace. BOPA