Motswako rapper, Mooketsi Letlhalerwa, 36, aka Noello, is no newbie to showbiz, rising to prominence back in 2010 with his breakthrough project ‘Machech-check’.
As well as belting out hits on the mic, the artist recently delved into the world of fashion, launching his own clothing label.
Although he was already a regular feature on local music charts, Noello took his star to a whole new level in 2012, gaining critical acclaim for his ‘ATI vs Noello – 100% Mixtape’ collaboration with ATI.
How has Covid-19 affected your music plans?
Since we can’t perform, it’s hard to make money that runs the music business. It’s hard to introduce people to new music since we can’t do our normal single tours.
We had to push back album releases because of Covid-19. People are not consuming music like they used to in a normal year, our customers have a lot to worry about.
Music is obviously not a priority for them at the moment.
Tell us about your new single and upcoming EP.
I have a new single titled ‘Lefele’ featuring Notshi and produced by BeatSlayer.
This song is for Motswako heads. It is the sound that made me fall in love with music.
I feel I am at a point where my career has come full circle and there is a need to go back to where it all started and preserve the Motswako sound.
Talking about where it all started, what item do you still have from your childhood?
I don’t think I have anything from my childhood because growing up I had to switch places a lot after my parents divorced, so I guess that’s how I lost my things.
For those that don’t know you, how would you describe yourself?
I’m a reserved person for those that I’m not used to and a loud, funny guy to those that I’m close with.
What habit have you picked up during these crazy Covid-19 times?
I do a lot of reading, self-development is really important.
I’m currently reading ‘The subtle art of not giving a f**k’ by Mark Manson.
Times are tough, what is the one thing you’ve had to cut out of your budget?
It’s tough times but I’m blessed to have a job so I won’t say I had to cut down on anything.
What is the one thing you have to constantly clarify and explain about you?
I don’t think there is anything because I live a simple life.
I am past the stage of explaining myself to anyone, what people think about me is fine, it’s what they think!
Five things people don’t know about you?
1. I am a bad cook. I literally eat out most of the time, especially when I am alone
2. I used to be a good dancer but these days I can’t even move a leg, I don’t know what happened!
3. I don’t eat seafood
4. I am a good swimmer
5. I play good soccer, very good soccer actually
