18 Jun 2014

Kebadiretse Belemo, popularly known as Masa, is the new gospel artiste who is determined to change people’s lives with his music.

Belemo released his first 13-tracked album titled He Lifted Me Up in February 2014. The Tamasane-born star started his singing at a tender age after being inspired by his grandmother who used to sing in the Botswana Democratic Party choir.

He was also part of his junior school choral music choir and started singing gospel music at his church, Bible Life Ministries in 2000.

Belemo explained that he was inspired by Kabelo Eric, a local gospel music artiste, to start his own album. Through the support of Pastor MarcDonald Ndlovu of Selebi Phikwe Bible Life Ministries, whom he listed as his mentor and who also provided both moral and financial support, Belemo managed to record his album.

His church congregation and family also contributed in making his dream of becoming a gospel music artiste reality . It is through this support, he said, that he managed to overcome the minor challenges he encountered.

He also expressed his gratitude to Mrs Emelda Kuate from Bobonong, for her support of accommodation, food and transport when he was working on his album. He Lifted Me Up was recorded at Isbheyu Arts & Recording Studios in Bobonong by Brighton Mckhenzie.

Belemo listed track 2 Hallelujah, as his most favorite song in the album because it is in this song, he said, that he gives thanks to God for all the blessings he has showered him with. The other songs in the album include Empa Jwale, Kena le Modisa, Ikhethele and Oh Touch Me featuring Pastor MarcDonald.

According to Belemo, the album is currently in Selebi Phikwe only, with only 100 CDs left from the 500 copies that were cut.

He is expecting to release his second album next year. “I would like to thank all those who supported me on this album and urge Batswana to continue buying my music as it can have a positive impact on their lives,” he concluded. ENDS