A voice of her own
Lucy Kgweetsi | Monday August 4, 2025 06:00
Describing herself as “passionate, colourful, full of life, emotion, and creativity,” Johnson represents a growing movement of artists who are not afraid to lean into vulnerability and truth.
Her relationship with music began early. “My journey in music began when I was 4, I used to sing for church revival services, and professionally I started pursuing music at 15,” she shared in an interview with Arts&Culture.
That early exposure helped shape her distinct sound, an R&B and soul blend grounded in storytelling and deep emotional resonance.
“My sound is smooth R&B infused with emotional honesty and soulful storytelling,” she adds. Inspired by artists such as Mariah Carey, Brandy Norwood, and Thandiswa Mazwai, Johnson draws on a wide range of influences while maintaining a personal, introspective approach to songwriting.
“It usually starts from a mood or emotion that leads me to an ongoing melody. From then on, I find the words to express what I may be feeling.” She explains. While she writes most of her material, Johnson remains open to collaboration. She says her music often serves as a kind of diary. 'Some songs are experiences; some are experiences I hope to have. I usually let the feeling guide the sound,” she adds.
Navigating the local industry hasn’t always been easy. She acknowledges that singing R&B in Botswana can feel like pushing against the current. “Some may try to discourage you or claim there’s no real market for it in our country, but the truth is, the R&B scene is a wide-open playing field,” she says. Still, she believes in the genre’s potential, especially for artists who stay authentic and patient.
Her proudest moment to date was hearing her single, Serenity, on the radio for the first time. “That shook my world and made me realise that anything is possible. It was an epic moment,” she said. The song, which she calls her most personal, continues to resonate with listeners for its message of calm and hope. “It’s my go-to song when I’m overwhelmed or need an emotional boost. It was also a gentle message to myself,” she says proudly.
For Johnson, performing live has become an important part of her growth as an artist. “It’s boosted my confidence and taught me the power of real connection; there’s nothing like seeing people feel your music in the moment.” She reflects.
Balancing creativity with business is an ongoing challenge, but one she navigates with intention. “I make sure to give myself the freedom to create without pressure, that’s where the magic happens, but I also understand that the business side requires just as much focus.” She adds.
Looking ahead, Johnson is preparing to release new music and is set to perform at Moeneele, a showcase hosted by X808X Entertainment. She names Fella the Beat, Tau Rin, and Samantha Mogwe among her dream collaborators locally, with international aspirations that include Marcus Harvey, Shekhinah, and Thandiswa Mazwai.
As for what she hopes to leave behind, Johnson is clear, “I’d like my music to be remembered as timeless, honest, and emotionally rich. My legacy would be about making space for truth, depth, and vulnerability while reminding people that even the underdog can achieve anything they set their mind to.” She concluded.