13 Nov 2016

After working with various prominent artistes such as Dr Vom, Kukama and Selonyana where he was a backup singer and dancer, Pelotshweu Kolobeng formed his own group called Dilo Makwati in 2014.
The vocally gifted group of four young people being Linda Mmileng, Tshenolo Thebe, Lesego Mogale and the founder Kolobeng met in Dikgafela traditional group based in Gaborone and decided to work together.
Kolobeng said he started music at primary school, where he did both choral and traditional song and dance but later opted for traditional dance where his passion is rooted.
The group composed a six track album titled Dithetho Tsa Sesha and said the album was produced by Bullet Ketshabile who is prominently known and associated with many traditional artistes in the likes of Gongmaster, Ditiro and many others.
The album features title track Dithetho tsa sesha a romantic track of lovers conversing on the changes in their relationship which they blame on modernisation and the track Dithothi praising the goodness of traditional sources of water during the rainy season when there is plenty of water everywhere for humans and animals alike to enjoy.
Changaneng is a track that boldly speaks of the capability of the group and their ability to bring competitions to other groups, Mamasilanoka a track that speaks of a bird that lives where there is plenty of water.
Tamati is a popular childhood game song that is arranged in a rather engaging tune that makes you sing along, lastly is Mamasilanoka instruments at number six.
Kolobeng said they have performed at Botswana Craft’s Letlhafula Cultural Day in June where they got exposure and later performed in South Africa during the June 16 commemorations.
He said they also performed alongside South African gospel artiste, Tatlhego Nkalai who featured them in his album launch and helped them complete their album.
He further said they toured and performed in Dikwididi, Modipane, Mokatse and Oodi during the journey of the roving torch.
Kolobeng said a few of their tracks aired on RB1 and Duma FM in the previous months and the reception is promising.
Despite their other responsibilities such as school and work, the group still creates time to make and perform their music.
He said they shared their passion and talent with Batswana adding that it was not easy but they all made monetary contributions to record their album.
“We grew up in cultured Setswana homes and the love of traditional music is the driving force in us and we anticipate going far. We plan to make a music video for our current album and carry on with our Setswana music,” Kolobeng said.
He advised the youth to focus on their academic life before pursuing their artistic dreams saying that education is important and serves a significant role.
He narrated that music helped him pursue his certificate in Carpentry as he saved money while working with various artistes.ENDS