16 Jul 2015

It was no surprise that a lot of the industry’s heavy hitters came out to support Punah Gabasiane-Molale on Wednesday night at a listening session for her 4th studio album entitled Toro.

Known as the Queen of Jazz, she is credited with grooming a lot of artistes in the country, among them Nono Siile.

Musicians such as Ndingo Johwa, Nnunu Ramogotsi, Nono, Kearoma Rantao and the legendary John Selolwane, came out in a show of solidarity that has been missing among local entertainers.

Punah is nothing short of sensation and her previous albums have always done well among afro-jazz lovers. Her singing style is entirely unique and promotes Botswana culture.
She has shared the stage with international musical legends such as Hugh Masekela, Judith Sephuma, Sipho Mabuse and Stimela.

Her latest offering, Toro shows a lot of personal growth, both lyrically and vocally.

The album has eight tracks and cover three core areas; her life, Botswana culture and nurturing Botswana talent.

The title song is about a dream in which she sees two paths; a wide open path travelled by multitudes and a small path beaten by a few. Punah has also arranged two folk songs namely Mmaboleisa and Tshetsana.

She has dedicated the song, Moratiwa, to her husband who is also her manager.

Speaking at the listening session, a representative of the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Culture Dean Molebatsi said Punah epitomises what an artiste should be.

“She is a role model to many and has shown good behaviour throughout her career.

No one has ever heard anything bad being reported about her,” he said. He said artistes should not do bad things thinking that is how one becomes a great artiste.
He indicated that the music industry in Botswana has come a long way and it is growing steadily.

“Punah is one of those people that are greatly talented and have done wonders for this industry,” he said.

John Selolwane also had a few words to say. He called on Batswana to support their own artistes.

“Some of the international acts are not even as good as some of our locals.

Batswana do not even understand how much talent they have in this country,” he said, “Our mindset and attitude should change towards such talent and Punah is one talented lady who deserves every reward she can get from her music.” Ends