ATI speaks from beyond grave through new single
Sharon Mathala | Wednesday February 18, 2026 06:07
The song is more of a testimony reminder of the hunger and resilience that defined ATI’s musical journey.
‘Nole kae’ features Dj King, Trademark DJz, Dintleonthetrack. By Monday, it had 34,000 views on YouTube. From the opening bars, ATI positions himself as a man different from the ordinary one. “Ever since a newborn, I have been on a path only just a few select could ever be on,” he declares, immediately framing his life as one marked by destiny, by badimo. The lyrics jump between English and Setswana, thus continuing his signature style.
“Pressure le dikgwetho re di endura,” he raps, acknowledging the hardships and criticisms he faced, particularly in an industry that did not always embrace him.
The hook “O ne ole kae?” (loosely translated to where were you?) seems to be directed at his doubters, nemesis, and perhaps even the industry itself. ATI revisits betrayal and isolation, he says, “Betrayed, frustrated and left for dead / Dusted my shoes and I walked again.”
Now, in hindsight, those lines carry haunting weight, given his untimely passing last year. ATI died on August 31st after being found unconscious at a guest house in Gaborone.
South Africa’s Trademark DJz’s influence is evident in the upbeat and thumping sound that at times almost leans towards amapiano. Dintleonthetrack’s contribution adds melodic softness, balancing the grit of ATI’s verses.
In the final verse, he reaffirms his self-belief: “Cause I know I’m a king, you could tell by the behavior.”
As fans await the full album, this latest release marks the anticipation for the album.
“Legacy doesn’t fade. It echoes. his is more than a release it’s a continuation of a vision. A voice that refuses to be silenced. A story still being told. Energy doesn’t die. It transforms. The mic is still hot,” a Facebook post from his wall reads.