16 Jan 2024

From a young age, Tabona Nkamogelang, whose surname means ‘accept me or welcome me,’ has had a passion for music. 

Growing up, he loved to sing gospel and dreamt of becoming a professional musician.  

Now, at the age of 29, Nkamogelang, from Ditshegwane in Kweneng West, has released his second album, a mix of house and gospel music that reflects his life experiences and the challenges he has faced. With moving lyrics and catchy beats, Nkamogelang’s album is a must-listen for anyone who loves music with a message. 

Nkamogelang’s album is a testament to the growing music industry in Botswana. 

In the past few years, Botswana has seen a surge in the number of gospel songs released by local artistes, and Nkamogelang’s new album is just one example of this trend. His gospel songs explore themes of faith, hope, and redemption, adding to the growing body of gospel music that is resonating with listeners. 

Meanwhile, house music has also become increasingly popular among young people in Botswana, and Nkamogelang’s take on the genre is helping to bring new energy and excitement to the scene. His songs, which blend traditional and modern sounds, are quickly gaining traction among dance music lovers.  

“Creating a hit song in the gospel and house genres is no easy fit,” said Nkamogelang, a rising artiste based in Francistown. 

He said these genres are the most popular in Botswana, but they are also the most difficult to master. “To make a song that will resonate well with listeners and get people dancing, you need to be innovative and push the boundaries of what has been done before,” said Nkamogelang. 

Nkamogelang has certainly succeeded in this regard, with his unique blend of traditional and modern sounds. His songs have found an enthusiastic audience, and he is determined to push the boundaries further. 

Songs have the power to heal and comfort, and Nkamogelang is well aware of this fact.  

That is why he designs his songs to carry a message that is relevant and timely. 

“I want my songs to speak to the hearts and minds of my listeners, and to offer them something they can hold on to,” he says. 

Nkamogelang explained that his songs, in particular, the gospel ones, have a special place in his heart. “They are designed to reach those who are hurting, and to give them hope and healing,” he said. 

This message of hope and comfort is evident in Nkamogelang’s tracks such as Dumelang go Morena, Nkutlwe Jehovah, and Tsamaya le Jehovah, which are a poignant and powerful tracks that speak to the listener’s hearts. The lyrics describe a person who is feeling lost and alone, and who is going for a connection with something greater than themselves. 

Nkamogelang’s delivery of the lyrics is passionate and heartfelt, and the melody is soothing and beautiful. 

Together, these elements create a song that is truly unforgettable.  

“If the gospel songs are designed to heal the soul, then the house tracks are designed to get you moving and keep you on the dance floor,” he said. 

Nkamogelang explains that the songs are a reflection of the energy and excitement of today’s music scene, and they encapsulate the spirit of house music. 

“It is about making people feel good, and about getting them to lose themselves in the music. 

I love creating music that people can really connect with and enjoy,” he added. This creative approach has served Nkamogelang well, and his house tracks have gained a dedicated following. ENDS