24 Mar 2026

Reflecting on his music journey, Orapeleng Lesole, known as Makase in the entertainment fold, acknowledges the challenges of breaking through in the embryonic, yet competitive and talent jam-packed local music scene. 

“With so many artistes emerging, success requires uniqueness and creativity,” he explained. 

Yet, he remains optimistic, noting that his strategy of collaborating with other artistes has helped grow his art and supporters base, catapulted by the use of social media platforms. 

Therefore, Makase encourages artistes to persevere, hold each other’s hand, despite encountering obstacles.  “Success is not gained overnight.

Serve the industry with dedication and patience, God sees your struggles,” he advised. 

He also emphasised on unity. 

“If we support each other, we can grow and be recognised both locally and internationally. 

United we stand, divided we fall,” he said. 

Born and raised in Shoshong, 27-year-old artiste, cherished his upbringing as foundation to his love in disco rhythms, as they dominated both the airwaves and everyday life. “It was a typical disco everywhere phenomenon,” he said. 

 Among the many styles, Makase found his heart drawn to the afro-disco sounds of the late Donald ‘Don B’ Botshelo and the Zangwana Band. 

Makase’s career began in 2017 as a dancer, performing alongside seasoned artistes such as Sielaneng Dr. Zillas Smart, Kabonna Sub-K Sabata, and Machaba Kachana.

 By 2021, he transitioned into singing, releasing his debut single named Dumelang Batswana, produced at Sub-K Entertainment in Maun. 

In 2025, Makase expanded his debut single into a full album, also titled Dumelang Batswana.

 The project brought him respected collaborations including Sub-K, Tumelo Eureka Samuel Mlotshwa, the late Simon Tshenolo and Michael Monnapula of the Tween Brothers crew.

For Makase, collaborations marked the gradual realisation of his dream to work with industry heavyweights. BOPA