Lister Boleseng steals Valentine's lunch crowd's hearts
Nnasaretha Kgamanyane | Wednesday February 18, 2026 06:16
The event, held at Botswana Craft on Saturday February 14, brought together music enthusiasts, mostly senior citizens, who came to indulge in an afternoon of soulful music and good company. Lister Boleseng, known for his unique skill as a saxophonist, took the stage and delivered a splendid performance, showcasing his latest album, 'Moratiso.'
The album is a tribute to the power of natural love, emphasising the importance of giving love to one's partner and nurturing a sense of love and compassion in the nation.
The event featured two sets, with the first one comprising slow love songs while the second set featuring upbeat jazz numbers.
The audience, who had braved the rains to attend the event, were treated to a memorable experience. They were relaxed and enjoyed good music, traditional cuisine, and their favourite beverages during the first set, and were later on their feet, dancing to the more rhythmic songs in the second set.
But the highlight of the evening was a surprise performance by the legendary jazz guitarist John Selolwane, affectionately known as Bra John.
The music icon took to the stage and delivered a breathtaking performance that left the audience in awe. Bra John showered Lister Boleseng with love, acknowledging and praising him for his dedication to music.
He also commended Lister's daughter, Lone Boleseng, for her impressive singing talent, encouraging her to continue pursuing her passion.
The Valentines Lunch with Lister Boleseng lived up to the billing. It was bigger and better, with Lister and Bra John's performances being the highlights of the evening.
John Selolwane, affectionately known as Bra John, is a legendary jazz guitarist from Botswana.
He previously played with music greats such as Paul Simon, Hugh Masekela and Stevie Wonder, and even performed at the Seoul Olympics in 1988.
Bra John's contributions to Botswana's music industry are immense, and he's been recognised for his work, including by a performance at a Sereetsi & the Natives concert, where he was honored as a living legend.
Some of his notable achievements include international collaborations with renowned artists like Bob Dylan and Stevie Wonder, founding the band Kalahari, which accompanied the late Hugh Masekela during his exile in Botswana, and being suggested for Botswana's second-highest honor, Naledi Ya Botswana, for his contributions to music.
Bra John's legacy extends beyond his music, as he's inspired generations of musicians in Botswana and beyond.