Mohalenyane Phakela
MASERU — Gifted with a smooth, deep voice and a talent for writing songs that reflect the daily life and struggles of the people of his homeland, Mongali Nthako has found it fit to release his debut album, Life.
Nthako told Xpress People on Friday that Life was inspired by life experiences and struggles he sees in his vicinity.
“It is smooth Jazz that speaks to the mind rather than making people dance. It tackles heated and important issues of life as the album is titled,” Nthako said.
Born and bred in the location of Ha-Ts’osane in Maseru, Nthako, whose love for music developed from as early as his kinder-garden years, says he has no plans to stop.
“In 1996 while still a child, I made myself a guitar using an oil tin, a piece of plank and strings. I would sit alone imitating songs of that time,” Nthako said.
“As a young boy, I joined a church choir to improve my singing talent and polish my guitar-playing skills as I was now exposed to real instruments. I then started writing and recording songs.”
Later on Nthako played for local Jazz legends like Bhudaza, Fatere and Qiloane Jazz Band.
“People never stopped praising me after every performance so I thought it was high time I released my own album,” Nthako said.
Track 10 Likhutsana (orphans), is especially composed for his friend.
He said: “I have this orphaned friend who has been my shoulder to cry on all along the way, so I found it fair to do a song about him, to show him that he is appreciated.”
Other outstanding tracks are Important Man — which reminds people that God has chosen a role for everyone, and Lerato is basically about love.
“I recorded a demo in 2008 although I already had material for a full album, but due to lack of funds could not release it. The good news is, it is finally here,” Nthako said.
On this compilation, Nthako has worked with one guitarist Ts’itso Matsipa and Salem Nikelo on the piano.
The album will be officially launched soon.
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