Although she worked with Mophato Dance Theatre and her music was featured on Mzansi Magic’s television series DiepCity, Lioness Ratang (born Ratang Moitshepi) was a relatively unknown name.
That all changed at the end of June, when the talented 21-year-old songstress was signed-up by one of the biggest names in Africa, the one-and-only, Makhadzi.
Under the South African heavyweight’s guidance, Ratang is expected soar, starting with the release of an EP by the end of the month.
Congratulations on your move to Makhadzi Entertainment. How did it come about?
Since last year December, I’ve been burning to travel to Johannesburg; I didn’t have any plans whatsoever but just to travel there around March to visit my friend.
Unfortunately I was still engaged on Pula production with Mophato Dance Theatre.
I had to postpone the trip.
End of May I just felt like ‘no man it’s time for me to go’ and I left for the City of Gold and as they say the rest is history.
Wow! Forgive my ignorance but when did your music career start?
My music career started when I was 19 years old.
I was doing soundtracks for the television series DiepCity on Mzansi Magic.
Describe your music?
I would say my music is soulful and spiritual.
There’s no better way of describing it other than that.
What’s it like working with Makhadzi?
Honestly, Makhadzi is an amazing person.
I’ve never come across a great person who will treat you like a greater person than themselves.
She’s so humble, so much that you even forget that you are in the room with the biggest artist in Africa.
Makhadzi is known for her electrifying energy on stage – but what’s she in the studio?
Yo Makhadzi is a hard worker.
She makes sure that every time we leave the studio, we leave something amazing.
The energy is not only on the stage, the electric current also overflows in the studio.
I can believe it! Talking of the studio, when can we expect an album?
I would say you should expect an EP by the end of August.
Do you remember your first ever paid gig? How much did you get?
My first paid gig was around April at Mosadi Khumo; it’s actually the money that I used on my trip to Johannesburg!
I honestly cannot disclose how much it was because of the contract that I signed with my clients pertaining my payments.
Fair enough. You performed at Ghanzi Invasion at the weekend as part of a star-studded line-up – what was it like?
Oh, I don’t know how to explain but it was an amazing feeling.
I’m looking forward to doing more gigs in Botswana and the rest of the world.
It was my first ever performance with some of the biggest stars in Botswana.
What does it take for an artist to make it in SA?
I haven’t made it yet, but I know I am going to make it!
I believe what it takes for someone to make it in South African industry is talent.
South African people appreciate talent and as long as you have it, can back it up, and have belief in yourself, the whole country will rally behind you because they are really supportive.
When was the last time you cried and why?
The last time I cried was when I got inside Makhadzi’s house; I was star-struck and overwhelmed by everything that was going on at that time.
Who’s your celebrity crush?
My celebrity crush will forever be Burna Boy.
Name two people who’ve always supported you in your music journey.
People who’ve been supporting me are my sister and my parents.
Five things people don’t know about you?
1. I love to dance and I dance a lot
2. I have a cup of warm water every day
3. I love sleep
4. I lost two sisters. May their souls rest in peace
5. I’m a Christian
