Last year, only a handful knew who he was.
Now, thanks to his monster tune, ‘Wena’, Thato Tladi is fast becoming a household name.
One of the breakthrough stars of 2023, the 26-year-old has been snapped up by Security Systems as a brand ambassador while also securing a spot at one of the biggest festivals in the country, Vee Mampeezy’s ‘Last Man Standing’. Vee has also pledged to sponsor the ‘Wena’ music video production.
Let’s find out more about Botswana’s latest celebrity…
‘Wena’ is one of the biggest singles in the country at the moment, tell us about the song?
‘Wena’ is a beautiful letter from a lover to his soul mate. It’s an expression of a one-of-a-kind love that’s shared between two people -the kind that gives you butterflies and tummy knots.
It was produced by B.O Beatz, who also mastered and engineered it. After the beat was done, he called me up to get in front of the mic and I added my touch to it.
You burst onto the scene this year and have really taken the industry by storm – when did you decide it was time to push music as a career?
It has been about six months now. I have been making music, although not as loudly and openly as I am right now. I have worked with the likes of ATI and Sereetsi and the Natives off the grid.
So what’s your genre and how many singles or albums do you have so far?
As I mentioned above, I am still new to the commercial side of music, so I only have two songs out: ‘Location’ and ‘Wena’. A lot more is yet to come from me though. I don’t necessarily confine myself to any specific genre because I am versatile enough to sing to any beat.
You’ve been booked for Last Man Standing – it’s a massive platform but I’m curious to know, what’s the biggest stage you’ve performed on previously?
Last year, I got the opportunity to perform at the University of Botswana Foundation Dinner Dance. It was a huge platform for an upcoming artist such as myself. I have also had many small intimate live performances before I commercialised my art.
So, how are you going to ensure you make it a worthwhile experience for your growing brand?
The best way to sell my brand is to give an exceptional performance which will engrave my brand in the hearts of revellers, promoters and other artists. It is a life-changing opportunity that can completely transform an artist’s life should they use it well. It is also a great networking opportunity.
Shaya is pushing me to ask, how are discussions progressing regarding the video shoot and the Last Man Standing booking?
I am happy to inform you that myself and Vee Mampeezy’s team are currently engaged in progressive dialogue with regards to both issues. I must highlight that his interest in me has been a life-changing boost to my growing career and I cannot thank him enough.
What sets your music apart from the rest?
Besides entertaining, I hope to inspire and make a positive impact in people’s lives. My greatest achievement musically will not be determined by how much money I make, or how many bookings I get – that’s all important, but my fulfillment comes from knowing that I have impacted someone’s life.
Any local artists you’d like to collaborate with?
For a while now, it’s been a dream of mine to collaborate with William Last KRM. I am hoping and praying that my dream will come to life.
Five things people don’t know about you?
1. I’m very shy
2. I don’t know how to take compliments which might come across as rude to some people, so bear with me!
3. I freestyle in all my songs
4. I am a big fan of Franco and Charma Girl
5. I spent less time with both my parents, as they left this part of life when I was very young. I miss them all the time!