Sestwana trio know how to hit the high notes
Encore consists of three talented musicians who serenade listeners in Setswana
LIMPOPO – Fresh from being nominated as Best Group at the recently-held Metro FM Awards ceremony, Encore, a trio of talented musicians say they are determined to leave a lasting mark on the music industry.
The group consists of Kabelo Thomane, guitarist, Keabetswe Kototsi, vocalist, and Peter Letswalo as pianist and they have made their presence in the music industry felt with their hit single Lerato.
The trio met while studying music at the SA State Theatre in Pretoria in 2009 and they connected thanks to their numerous jam sessions, impromptu and planned, in the rehearsal rooms.
In no time they found themselves on the big stage performing at the Women’s Day festival at the Pretoria Showgrounds a few months later. This was as a result of an invitation from one of the organisers, also a friend, who called on them as a band to join the line-up.
The band was discovered by On Point Records founder, Modise Kgomo, when they performed at the house of former Tshwane Mayor, Kgosientso Ramokgopa, during a golf day reception last year.
Thomane said the fact that the group sing in their mother tongue is the best way to express themselves.
“We took a risk by singing in Setswana but after seeing the positive reaction we have gained confidence and have no doubt that we are on the right path. Encore pushes melody and poetic lyrics that set us apart from most singers of today,” he said.
Vocalist, Kototsi adds that their songs always strike a chord with music lovers. “We never thought we would see people cry over our music, but we have experienced it. People ask us to perform Lerato up to four times in a row.
“Our influence has even spread beyond South African borders with legions of fans in Lesotho where we regularly perform. We have even had correspondence from American fans that may not understand the language, but are moved by its soulful renditions.”
Thomane composes most of their songs and says he draws from his vast knowledge of Setswana, which he studied at school and also speaks at home.
“Our dream is to be the first to go deeper into Setswana and to prove that it can be romantic.
“We’re here to stay and we will continue to get our name out there,” he said.
