Malebo Mothema
Bio
Malebo's style of music can be described as Pan-African, although strongly rooted in Pedi culture. Her 2003 debut album, "Growth in Africa (Universal Records) was produced by Stimela member Thapelo Khomo. The album was released to great critical acclaim and was an early example of a young South African artist going back to her roots. "Growth in Africa" received a lot of airplay, most notably the song "Kgodu" (which features on KAYA FM's 2004 compilation) with its deep Pedi grooves and lyrics. Another heavily rotated song was the Afro-House-infused 'Pongo'. Malebo's second and latest album to date, Truly African (Universal, 2006), elaborated on the pan- African theme, blending different musical styles from all over Africa and the diaspora. This album also see her expand deeper into Pedi grooves and lyrics. "My father used to take us to 'Dinaka', which are also called 'Dikosha'. That's where I first heard Pedi drums and flutes. I used to think that I would do Gospel or House music. But I've realized that those Sepedi influences are still with me," she says.
Malebo has collaborated with many other artists from countries as vast as South Africa, Niger, Senegal, Mozambique, Australia and the USA. She was recently featured with Beyonce on the song ”I Miss You Africa Mix”.
Malebo Mothema is one of South Africa's most unique, interesting and versatile artists. She seamlessly blends music inspired by traditional Pedi culture with other styles of music. Malebo's music poetically encompasses messages of love, unity, tolerance, peace, pan-African solidarity, cultural awareness, encouragement, hope, and celebration of life.
Contact: 0729653201
0817226323
malebomothema116@gmail.com