05 Jun 2025

Galaletsang ‘Gala’ Phutietsile, that young vibrant vocalist on local group Da Vet’s 2005 ‘A Re Yeng’ classical hit, has made a comeback with a six-song Extended Play (EP) titled, Joyful. ‘Gala’, who during her young days worked behind the scenes as a backing vocalist for several local artists is back with an individual jazz EP inspired by God’s grace, life experiences, love, hope and joy. 

Recorded, mixed, mastered and produced at Hi-Note Productions by Tshepo ‘T-Les’ Lesole, the EP, which is targeting a mature and corporate audience, is a testimony and reflection of ‘Gala’s musical journey and growth over the years. Having started her musical journey at Sunday school where she discovered her talent and love for music, ‘Gala’ went on to join a local Gospel group, Jam in Christ where she was the lead singer. Given the opportunity and platform to perform alongside international giant Gospel group, Joyous Celebration, at one of the concerts in Gaborone, ‘Gala’ was discovered by local kwaito group Da Vet and she featured on ‘A Re Yeng’ as a vocalist. 

The song became an instant hit not only in Botswana but regionally, and with that exposure, ‘Gala’ was able to get the attention of musical talents in the likes of Women of Jazz, Shanti Lo, Socca Moruakgomo, Maxi Mma Gauta as a featured vocalist performing at live performances and sometime collaborating with some. 

She did not only catch the attention of local musicians, but also across borders. ‘Gala’ has had an opportunity to be a backing vocalist for the late Sfiso Ncwane of Kulungile Baba fame and jazz act, Thapelo Mfokeng, both from South Africa. 

At some point, the Kalamare native, who is born and bred in Gaborone, took a break from limelight. However, she stayed rooted in church as she built her career in corporate banking. It was at the beginning of 2025 when she decided to make a comeback and released Joyful in May. 

She worked with Botswana’s jazz maestros, with Sakkie ‘Loui’bass’ Nonong co-producing the EP and also as bassist, drummer Wynton Senwelo, Shepherd ‘Spiro’ Mpofu on keys and Nthabiseng Letsomo on backing vocals. 

Game ‘Zeus’ Bantsi is also featured in the EP on Galaletsang track, which is a jazzy hip hop vibe beat, with the title track inspired by a traditional Gospel hymn. 

Other songs include Monna ko pateng, Lefetwa, Botshelo, Tsela, which has lyrical chants to deliberately target deep spiritual audience. 

A bonus track for ‘Gala’s fans especially from her old fan base is ‘A Re Yeng’ which has been remixed and sampled into jazz rhythm. 

It is in this classic remix that one gets to appreciate her authenticity and powerful alto voice, which is distinct for this genre. “I have a raw and natural voice and relate well in my natural Africanness. 

I am able to express and pass my message to my audience through this voice in this genre,” ‘Gala’ said on her choice of musical genre. 

She said she is a diverse vocalist but “I remain true to my Africanism.” ‘Gala’ has appealed to other artists not only in the jazz space, but across genres to unite as one and work together for the sustenance of Botswana entertainment. 

She said despite challenges in the showbiz industry, if artists work together and focus on properly branding, packaging and profiling themselves, they can break barriers and contribute as they should to Botswana’s economic growth. ENDS