Mmegi/The Reporter (Gaborone)
Kopano Olesitse
28 October 2009
Francistown — Traditional music sensation Alfred Keorete, 29, otherwise known as Maghebula in music circles, has released a new six-track album titled Se lela go jewa.
The album, which entered the market on October 1, contains hit tracks such as Setlhako sea lela; Go tlhakatlhakane and Morwalela, which is a combination of both gospel and traditional music.
He said that already 5, 000 copies are in circulation and can be seen in places such as Francistown, Gaborone, Selebi-Phikwe and Maun, adding that soon the album will be accessible nationwide.
"Prior to the release of my album, I was singing with Dija mmogo choir also my desire to sing and dance traditional music has been the main motivation for the new album.
It took me five years to write and compose this album. One of the songs in the album, Loso must be listened to carefully because it sends the message to everyone that death must be accepted as it affects all of us," said Keorete
He said the album title, Go lela go jewa, is about a lose-or-win situation that exists in real life situation. In his new album, Keorete worked with one backing vocalist, Joe Ramocha. "I do not believe that the market for traditional music is fully serviced because what the people are looking for is quality not quantity. The main problem that we face as local music artists is piracy because rather than build us it destroys us," added Keorete.
Keorete also appealed to Batswana for support by attending their live performances and album launches in large numbers. "However, we're thankful to the local radio stations especially RB1 because they encourage local music by playing it.
The next step is to release the DVD early next year but as of now, I'm busy with the promotion of my latest offering," outlined Keorete.He also pointed out that people must understand that pirating is a criminal offence that is punishable by law. Keorete discovered his talent in music as a young parishioner when he sang in a praise and worship choir.
When asked about why he chose Maghebula as his trademark name he said, "I got it from my colleagues at work and decided to use it in my music. My music is part time since I'm still employed but in future, I hope to go full-time because I believe that's what I'm born to do".
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