Gongmaster in support of Khama's fourth and fifth Ds

NELSON DIRENG
Correspondent | Tuesday June 8, 2010 00:00

 

Gongmaster said he is really worried at the attitude of local artists because most of them have lost respect for themselves and the nation to the extent of causing shockwaves across Botswana's music industry.

He said amongst the many unruly behaviours artists have is that of going on-stage to perform in a drunken stupor . 'Most of them are under the impression that performing while drunk makes them better entertainers but I totally disagree with this perception,' he said.

He said: 'these artists who think they are doing themselves a favour are in fact disrespecting their fans who pay to see quality shows.' He said artists who have this tendency end up tainting other artists' names who are out there to offer quality entertainment to their supporters. 'When you are drunk you are not normal and you tend to misjudge things,' he said.

Gongmaster said artists should understand that they are the servants of the nation. 'Artists are there to teach and guide the nation,' he said. He said that artists should avoid using obscene language in their songs because their songs are listened to by children.

Artists should release songs, which they would be proud of hearing their children singing when they grow up and start raising their own families. He said artists should work towards achieving the education pillar of Vision 2016. 'Let's administer the right education to people and not empower them with words that offend,' he said. 

Gongmaster, however, said that Botho as a Motswana artist is essential to make it in the music industry.  He said if Batswana do not like the way you carry yourself they are likely not to buy your album.  'An example is myself because I have always been humble towards my fellow countrymen and they have always supported me,' he said.

Gongmaster further said it is essential for local artists to learn how to cooperate. He said that having too many artists is a disadvantage because the market is very small due to the small population. 'Nowadays groups are breaking up and there are many artists fighting for the same market,' he said.

Meanwhile, Gongmaster has released his second solo album titled Kgotla O Mone!  The album was released on May 27 and has already received rave reviews from supporters.

The album is in DVD and tape that are being distributed in different outlets around the country. Gongmaster said the reason for releasing all three simultaneously was to try and capture the audience's attention before the album goes out of market.

He said it is also good, as it will help him release 'lots of albums' at once, thereby maximising his profits.  He, however, said performances for the album would begin in summer.