Empowering Lioness Ratang: Navigating the Path to Opportunity

 

On This Segment Of What They Saaay?!

In the ever-evolving landscape of the Botswana music industry, the story of Lioness Ratang has become a topic of great discussion and debate. As a young artist signed under the esteemed Makhadzi Entertainment label, Lioness has found herself in a peculiar situation – one where her undeniable talent and success have not necessarily translated into the bookings and opportunities one might expect.

Lioness recently took to her social media platforms to share that her hit song ‘Nako Tsele’ with Casswell P has become one of the biggest tracks in the country. Yet, despite this impressive achievement, she has expressed her frustration at the lack of performance bookings she has received.

The responses to Lioness's revelation have been a mixed bag, to say the least. On the one hand, there has been an outpouring of support, with fans and fellow artists rallying behind her and even offering to cover the costs of her bookings so that she can take the stage. This heartwarming display of camaraderie and community spirit is a testament to the power of unity in our industry.

However, the negative feedback that Lioness has received is truly disheartening. Some have gone as far as to tell her that she must ‘work harder,’ while others have resorted to banter, arguing that the industry is ‘no one's friend’ and that no one owes her bookings. This type of attitude, rooted in a lack of empathy, speaks volumes about the challenges that artists like Lioness face.

What @UnderKoverSkelm found particularly concerning is the notion that the spirit of ‘Botho/Ubuntu’ – the quintessential African philosophy of humanity and interdependence – is slowly fading away from our industry. The idea that we should work together and build each other up, because ‘motho ke motho ka batho’, seems to be losing ground to a more individualistic and cutthroat mentality.

As we reflect on Lioness Ratang's situation, it's crucial that we, as a creative community, take a step back and re-evaluate our priorities. Success should not be a zero-sum game, where one person's triumph is seen as a threat to others. Instead, we should strive to create an environment where talent and hard work are rewarded, regardless of an artist's age, gender, or background.

It is time for us to reclaim the spirit of Botho/Ubuntu, to embrace and uplift our fellow creatives, and to remember that our collective growth and prosperity are linked. Only then can we truly say that we are building an industry that works for everyone, not just a few.

Watch ‘Nako Tsele’ Below