At the height of his fame, Kuti married 27 women at a ceremony in 1978 and went on to invite a horde of concubines to stay in his commune where he openly led a polygamous life. The artist died in August 1997 of what is believed to be AIDS-related complications. Mmegi spoke to some of the leading artists in Botswana and asked them about their views on promiscuity and the artist and this is what they said:
Odirile 'Vee' Sento a leading kwaito artist:
Groupies obviously come to me demanding sex but I always turn them down and tell them that I am not interested since I have a girlfriend. Artists have to know that one-night stands always bring about negative consequences. My secret weapon is God and His word and they guide me through the most tempting times.
Frank 'Franco' Lesokwane of Ke lela le lona fame:
As for me I have never been approached by any groupies. In any case I am always professional and I know that my fans are just customers and you should never mess with your customers.
Taolo Moshaga, former BOMU chairman:
I have six years without performing live so people would be surprised to hear me talking about the issue. Having said that, I would highlight that during my heyday as a performer, I was strictly a professional who did everything for the love of music.
What I want to say to young and upcoming artists is that the entertainment industry can go to your head because of fame. Do not take your fame to the streets. You must have the ethics of a professional and you must always behave like a role model.
