Ezibizo praises his heroes
Gasebalwe Seretse | Thursday August 21, 2014 10:56
Speaking with Showbiz, Kgosikgolo Ezibizo said that these men are heroes who have to be honoured because they “achieved great exploits”.
“I know that to some people, Khama and Mandela might not be heroes, but I perceive them to be such. I am in the business of paying tribute to great men and women found all over Africa who I believe should be celebrated,” he said, adding that this also helps boost sales of his album, although it is not the primary motive.
Kgosikgolo Ezibizo also said that those who insinuate that he is a sycophant by singing praises to the men he idolises do not perturb him.
The 32-year-old artist from Gasiko Ward in Gabane believes borankana is dying in Botswana and he intends to revive it.
“A few years ago, we had a host of solo artists and groups singing Setswana traditional music, but nowadays the genre is going on a downward spiral. It is hogged by mediocrity, which is sad indeed. I believe that I should be at the forefront of restoring this genre and that is why I am called Kgosikgolo,” said the artist.
Ever since it was released earlier this year, the album has been well-received by radio stations both in the country and South Africa. He has also appeared on Btv music programme, Mokaragana and SABC 1 music programme, Roots.
Mafikeng fm has also played his music.
Kgosikgolo Ezibizo said that he is encouraged by the reception he has received in South Africa. He sees it as an indicator that he might be able to break into the international market. “I can tell from the gigs that I did in South Africa that they love my music, which is really encouraging. I now believe that I have what it takes to take music to the international stage,” he said. Kgosikgolo Ezibizo said in his endeavour to conquer international stages, he has signed with Dagee Records, which he says is the right stable to promote his music.
The album ‘Bagaka’ contains nine-tracks namely, Re Banna Tota, Re Amogeleng, Rre Mandela, E Kae, Ian Khama, Ko Ntsweng, Banna Ba Rata Go Tsietsa, and Maruping. It has so far sold 2,500 records, which the artist said is good by Botswana standards.
Surprisingly, Kgosikgolo Ezibizo said that one of his greatest inspirations is Odirile ‘Vee’ Sento.
“Although Vee and I are not in the same genre, I really admire him because I can see that he is hugely talented and he has good work ethics. He embodies everything I aspire to be,” he said.
It remains to be seen if this hugely talented artist will be able to have a staying power like his idol and win international fans.