05 Feb 2017

The country’s diverse culture and languages was an inspiration to young and determined, Thusoetsile Bafana to venture into the music industry.
The 31-year-old Bafana, who is known in the music circles as Syt said, his love for his mother tongue inspired him to share his thought with Batswana through music.

In an interview with BOPA, he said his path of music date back to 2007, after he completed his secondary education at Madiba Senior School in Mahalapye.
Syt said it was after his long stay in Mahalapye that he realised the thirst he had for his mother tongue, Ikalanga.

He said the language was not only his inspiration, but he noticed that the music itself, takes over when words fail to express what was from within.

The dancehall artist said so far he had three singles named Ghetto, Tomorrow that he produced in 2015, and Nzipo last year.

He said getting to where he is now, it was all thanks to artists like Mteezy, J. Igwe, Simjo and also working with best producers such as WeBe entertainment and Adonis MP Ear drum beats studio.

He nonetheless added that though the music industry was tough in Botswana, his uniqueness brings life to his music and it had earned him a good recognition among his followers..

Syt said his music also preserve the Ikalanga language, noting that looking at most of other artists, they use mostly Setswana and English.

He said by using Ikalanga it opened doors to those who had been reluctant to express their mother tongue in music.

Furthermore, he said though he was still on his baby steps he had managed to have several opportunities to showcase his talent.

He cited Radio Botswana (RB1) BOT50 golden jubilee celebrations’ visit in Tutume last year as one of the events that he perfomed at.

Also, he mentioned that he was privileged to perform at Tutume HQ night club alongside well established artists such as VEE and taking part in the Presidential competitions.

Being exposed to such opportunities, he said gave him hope to focus on his career, adding that it also gave him an idea which direction his music career was taking.

He is currently working on releasing a new album titled Ika-DANCEHALL VAULT volume 1.

He said many people not only those who understand the language appreciate his music.

His aim was to work hard and survive the stumbling blocks he encountered once or twice in his journey.

He urged other youth to believe in their dreams and learn from each other to advance their careers. BOPA