From Cameo in Tlokweng and Duke’s in what is popularly known as the African Mall near the Zeerust road which divides the wealthier sections of early Gaborone at New England from the ‘townships’ of White City and Bontleng.
Duke’s found an extension at Ellington’s where Satchmo’s is now located. The name of the prodigious 20th century talent - Duke Ellington - found completion. One can only guess that lack of profit made it impossible to maintain the spirit and image of the jazz nitespot.
I write in this column what should have been written as simple news for a purpose. It is in recognition of the particular importance of the establishment of a listening house where musicians can share ideas and develop the creative spirit that has been lacking for so long.
I must say, with due respect to the Capetonian band 501 who opened Satchmo’s last week, that there is talent in Botswana equal to that or better. The difference though lies in the freshness of the sound. It should be repeated once more that the efficacy of good entertainment lies in the expression of the originality of the artist. Copy-cats have never been recognised for anything beyond their talent for mimicry.
Unfortunately, the vice of the copy cat mentality refuses to leave the culture of music making in Botswana. That should explain - at least in part - why 40 years of independence have not produced a single Botswana artist of stature who can be recognised in his own right locally or abroad.
If Sachmo’s must contribute something that will stay, it is a group of enterprising musicians who will not be stuck in the mindset of the older bunch who thrive only on repeating what has already been said on record by true and original artists.
DJ Nene will be on hand to provide the recorded music...and there is plenty of it.
I write to implore Steve Raman not to be dissuaded by the attractions of quick cash which appear to be available in the Kwasa Kwasa business. Satchmo’s must live up to the huge names of Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong after which they were named.
I know nothing about music business management. What I have discovered though, is that several of these businesses start with a lot of heaving and huffing about the provision of ‘adult entertainment’, only to deteriorate to sanctuaries for drunks who will not go home to sleep in the wee hours of the morning.
I trust Steve Raman and his intentions. I also trust his business acumen. I trust that the local musicians will believe in the concept of a new creativity in partnership with Raman and Satchmo’s.
This time this thing needs to stick. Good luck Satchmo’s.
