Maxy Khoisan brings real-life issues in lyrics
Otlarongwa Kgweetsi | Monday May 19, 2025 07:29
The songs, Bone Bayangizonda and Bo Mmampharing, highlight themes of societal resentment and the growing problem of substance abuse. The first single, Bone Bayangizonda, was released on April 14, 2025 and features South African artists Makhadzi and Ba Bethe Gashoazen. The song belongs to the Lekompo genre and explores the hostility and suspicion that often surrounds individual success. According to Maxy Khoisan, the track reflects a troubling social pattern. “There’s a growing tendency to assume that someone else’s progress means others are falling behind,” she said.
“Instead of support, success often invites hostility,” she added, Maxy Khoisan, who is also often referred to as ‘The Brenda Fassie of Botswana’ for her musical versatility, added that the purpose of the song is not to provoke, but to shed light on how comparison and jealousy negatively impact social cohesion and personal well-being. The second song, Bo Mmampharing, a Setswana traditional song that focuses on drug and alcohol addiction, was released on May 2. The song is based on a personal encounter in which she greeted a group of individuals, some of them familiar to her, who were visibly intoxicated and unresponsive. “I greeted them, but none of them answered. Their eyes were bloodshot, and they just stared. They looked awake, but not alive,” said Maxy Khoisan. The title Bo Mmampharing is used metaphorically to refer to bearded dragon lizards, a term Maxy Khoisan employs to describe the dazed, detached state of those living with addiction. She says the song is meant to raise awareness about the impact of substance abuse, especially among working-age adults and youth. “These are strong people. But many are wasting their lives and potential due to addiction. It’s something we cannot afford to ignore,” she explained.
Despite the serious subject matter, both songs maintain Maxy Khoisan’s musical identity, combining social messages with rhythms that appeal to a broad audience. Maxy Khoisan has been active in Botswana’s music scene for over 25 years, blending traditional Setswana music with contemporary influences. Her past collaborations with prominent South African musicians, including Brenda Fassie, Chicco Twala, and Master KG, have contributed to her reputation as one of the country’s most versatile artists. Although she has been celebrated for her crossover hits, these two singles mark a return to socially conscious storytelling. She says the goal is not only to entertain but also to confront real-life issues. Both Bone Bayangizonda and Bo Mmampharing are available for download and streaming on all major digital platforms.