28 Jul 2015

Founder of the Francistown-based Nigro’s Gospel Group, Shakisani Mahama, says hardworking musicians can earn a livelihood through their talent.

The talented vocalist who started as part of gospel groups such as Young-T and Sediba sa Maphodi, said he released his debut album in 2011 entitled O ya ntaela moya.

His second album, Boela gae Jakes, was released in June this year. It was recorded at Sound Heart Melo Studio in Francistown.

Mahama’s journey in music dated back to his early primary school years.

He would sing to home-made guitars while herding livestock during school holidays. Raised by his Christian grandmother in Marobela, they often went to church together where he continued to explore his singing gift.

He cites the late South African gospel artist, Oleseng Shuping, as an inspiration.

The enterprising musician is a beneficiary of the government arts grant, with which he purchased music equipment in March. “I now have four speakers, a mixer, four microphones and attire for my performances.

A live performance is a great way to make money. I am pleased to be able to not only sell recorded music, but also sing at events as well as hire out my equipment, thanks to the Department of Arts and Culture,” he says.

Mahama, who is a member of the Copyright Society of Botswana looks forward to an appearance in the Mokaragana show on Botswana Television before the end of the year as he works his way to international markets.

On piracy, Mahama says it is an unfortunate practice which artists face worldwide.

“I believe that there is enough awareness going on for our people to desist from this offence because it kills business,” he says.

He sells a lot of his music during prayer sessions of his church, ZCC, as he travels all over the country. Ends