Machesa makes ‘Mmamothulama’ comeback hit
Nnasaretha Kgamanyane | Monday November 17, 2025 06:00
The song, which tells the story of a young man's journey to find love, has been a hit among fans, thus generating more bookings for the group than expected. The group's musical release was in 2022, when they dropped another single titled A re yeng pitsong ya Machesa. It was their first release in 11 years following their last album titled 16% released in 2011.
Formed in 2000 by Batsile Lesetedi, Keduetse Lesetedi, Manyoloi 'Max' Lesetedi, Lebitso, and Alkas Jack, Machesa Traditional Group was mentored by Kgobola, also famed as Mr Chinese. The group rose to fame with their debut album in 2001, featuring the hit song 'Mahala'. Their subsequent album, 'Kora', released in 2003, included popular tracks like 'Tshipidi', 'Sekopa', and 'Jesu Morena'. 'Tshipidi' brought home the group's first Kora Award, cementing their place in the music industry.
The trio, consisting of Batsile Lesetedi, Keduetse Shoes Lesetedi, and Manyoloi Max Lesetedi, took a break to focus on their individual pursuits but have now reunited to bless the music scene with 'Mmamothulama'. Produced and recorded at Colmas Studios, the song features segaba played by Sua Pan and is written by the trio.
Machesa Traditional Group has a busy schedule ahead, with performances lined up at various events. On November 15, 2025, they will be performing at the 'Bagolo Ba Motse' charity event at Camel's Inn Lodge in Mmopane. Some of the shows they are booked to perform at include Summer Explosion in Kopong, Splash Live in Tlokweng, Ke Matere Festival in Molepolole, and Letlhakeng's shutdown music event on December 24, 2025.
Lesetedi explained that, like many artists, Machesa Traditional Group faces challenges in the music industry, particularly with regard to finance. He said the shift from physical copies of an album, such as CDs, vinyl records, and cassette albums sales to streaming has made it difficult for artists to monetise their music. Lesetedi also emphasised the importance of knowing one's clients and working hard to impress them, saying it was the public that ultimately determines an artist's worth.