The old generation musicians like him have been exploited by the system for a very long time. Botswana is not the only country that finds itself in this situation. In neighbouring South Africa, musicians such as Mahlathini, Brenda Fassie died paupers. It was amazing how this was possible considering that such artistes were high profile, gracing big stages. Even by our standards artistes such as Mokha and the legendary Ratsie Setlhako, among others, graced our big stages and their songs are heard all over the place, particularly Radio Botswana. All things being equal these guys would have been rich or if anything been able to afford a decent life. But the truth is the contrary. They were relegated to beggars.
They have not been able to benefit from the royalties of their songs. We hope that their families will benefit however little the royalties, following the introduction of the Copyright Society of Botswana which will be collecting the royalties on their behalf. Unlike others before him, Stampore has a manager who is on record saying Stampore's family will benefit from the royalties. People like Stampore deserve the highest recognition even when they have departed, not a lukewarm farewell like the one he got over the weekend. The generation of Stampore is slowly being weeded away.This is not good for the arts and we just hope that they have nurtured some talent that will continue their legacy.
