17 Jul 2025

 Kudumatse’s rising Disco star Mokgethwa Ketshabile alias  Hotchilli 320  is about to drop a six-tracked album  dubbed Diphetogo.

Ketshabile is not new in the music scene as he made his intention known in 2022 when he launched his career with a single titled Mathata. 

Despite the challenges brought by COVID-19 pandemic, the 28-year-old did not give up on his dream of making it in the music industry but  is more determined to be a force to reckon with in Botswana’s music scene.

The determination was evidenced by the release of another  single titled Jeso, also inspired by the personal and financial hurdles he continued to face.

“My music reflect the struggles I continue to face in my music journey.  

It has not been easy, I have gone through a lot and only positivity can carry me through.  

Despite all challenges I have faith that God will see me through hence the names of the tracks in the upcoming album,” said Ketshabile in an interview recently. 

Some of the songs in the upcoming album include Intshwarele,  Ke itshepile and Modimo wame amongst others. 

Drawing inspiration from legends like Splash, Dan Tshanda, Patricia Majalisa, and T.H.A.B.O. he blends the soulful rhythms of Disco with real-life experiences. 

“Listening to these icons shaped my sound and my dreams,” he said.

While his passion and talent are evident, Ketshabile admitted that financial constraints and lack of resources remained a  challenge. 

“Marketing is everything in this industry. 

I have been struggling with finances, which makes it hard to promote my music effectively. 

But the hardships have not been deterred me from creating quality work,” he shared.

He has performed at several events in and around Mahalapye and has rubbed shoulders with the industry’s best including popular comedian Shweshbite. 

“I once took part in the Presidential Competitions, unfortunately, I could not make it to the regional level,” he added.

The artiste emphasised the need for more government support for young and upcoming artistes, particularly those from remote areas. 

“We lack access to basic resources like recording studios, radio, and television platforms. 

This limit our ability to grow and reach a broader audience. Our counterparts in urban areas are more opportuned than some of us,” he added. 

The rising Disco star said while they were offered opportunities for some interviews such as in radio and television, artistes in remore areas were disadvantaged to take advantage of such due to financial constraints, as most of them were not working. 

He appealed to the relevent authorities especially the Ministry of Sport and Arts to help creatives especially upcoming ones to reach their potential. 

Ketshabile said with structured support initiatives in place it will help nurture emerging talent. 

“Although I have not received any  government support yet, I remain hopeful that such will be realised in future. 

There are many of us out there with potential, all we need is a chance,” he noted.

He concluded with a message to the youth, “Talent alone is not enough. 

You need to be passionate, dedicated, and willing to push through the hardships if you want to succeed in the music industry.” ENDS