Nono Siile sings Masisi
The renowned Jazz artiste, Nono Siile has composed a song dubbed 'Thoriso' in honor of President Mokgweetsi Masisi. She tells BG Style that as a songwriter, she saw the need to express herself and recognize what the president has done so far.
She is of the view that, leadership has never been easy and there are always controversial issues surrounding it. "When one is a leader, everyone expects to instantly see change in whatever area they want to see grow. As a songwriter, I have observed that Masisi is trying and I had to use my talent to put this in song," said Nono. The Setswana lyrical Jazz songstres, in her rich voice reiterates that Masisi's efforts are visibly seen, as he travels around to seek help for his nation.
Nono said she was really impressed when the president had to increase the elderly monthly grant, after so many years of no difference. "The elderly form part of the important population in our society and we need them happy, fit and sound, so for Masisi to have noticed this and instantly made a difference in increasing a little something on what they earned before he became president, I really applaud him," said Nono. She further tells BG Style that, Jazz music normally carries that serene message, intended to inform or educate hence all her songs try to make people aware of something.
The Nthekele Ring hit maker is a firm believer that classic as Jazz music is, it is one genre that easily sends message to both the young and the old. "While a lot believe that Jazz music is for the elderly alone, I beg to differ because I have seen a lot of young people attending Jazz festivals and singing along, embracing the genre and speaking good of how jazz artistes always communicate deeply through song," said Nono. 'Thoriso' literally translates to appraisal.
The opening line to the song: 'Rre Masisi, re sisibetse tota, fatshe jeno le sisibetse tota,' a rhyme indicating that the country is at ease because of Masisi's leadership. Nono goes on to say there is prevailing peace within the country and 'Masisi o itshiametse fela, dithuso tsa gago di a bonala' and 'lehatshe le a itsege' meaning that Masisi is just doing fine, his help is visible and the country continues to be known internationally under his leadership too.
The Jazz legend says she still remains humbled by how Masisi sold Botswana through his speeches at COP-27. "This was a global event and I am glad that he couldn't miss it but travelled all the way to Egypt to show that climate issues also affect us as a country," said Nono. She is a firm believer that credit should be given where it is due and that everyone out there has something good to be recognized for, and it's positivity and constructive criticism that builds a certain community. Nono told BG Style that she cannot wait to present this song for the first time to the president, as she only dropped the song early this week. She adds that, this is a new year gift to her fans and the president.