Lioness Ratang destined for greatness
Lioness Ratang recently took to social media to vent about how she was not getting any bookings in Botswana, despite being an artist who is breaking barriers in the music scene locally and in South Africa. Born Ratang Cathleen Moitshepi, the versatile performer is a talented singer, dancer, and music composer.
At 22 years old, the Rasesa born native is indeed living up to her stage name. Presently, she has secured several features on numerous songs and is working with top artists including Oe’phihlile, Lowsheen and Makhadzi. Her lyrical prowess adds a unique dimension and touch to the songs. The song was released last year and still remains fresh. She has been featured on the hit track 'Nako Tsele' by Casswell P, which is yet another proof that this songstress is destined for great things. The song, released a few months ago, received 1 million views on YouTube. Other works include a feature on 'Show Me,' which features artists such as Josiah De Disciple, Omit ST, and Murumba Pitch.
Since her social media outcry, she has secured several bookings. One of those who responded to her plea was Seabelo Modibe of Total Music Group, who offered to cover her performance fees if any promoter booked her for a show. Some of the events where she is slated to perform include the Women’s Awards Botswana on August 24th at Travel Lodge and the Inter-Varsity Madness event at the Gaborone Club on August 31st, just to mention a few.
Speaking in an interview with this publication, she explains that she started her music career in 2020 when she did three soundtracks for 'Diepcity,' one of the most viewed dramas on Mzansi Magic. She got the opportunity after a live video audition during the Covid-19 pandemic. She explains that, on top of her South African features, she has worked locally with Shawn Lee, the first person she collaborated with on a song called 'Pula' in 2021, and on two songs in 2022 titled 'Your Love' and 'You.' She also worked with Team Distant.
Listening to her share the many artists she has worked with is mind-blowing, as it appears she is gaining recognition from industry insiders. 'I don’t want to lie, I think I did pretty well,' she says with some modesty.
When it comes to the type of songs she works on, she is all about reflecting the times. 'I also reflect the times of what I go through,' she says.
Sharing why she might not have been getting bookings locally, she explains that one has to be talked about a lot. In her case, this was not happening. Her outcry, she says, really helped her to speak out and show people the
problems that artists face.
She has an EP coming soon, and in the coming years, she sees herself as a superstar and possibly working as a producer.
In addition to her musical career, she is a trained vocalist and music composer, having worked with Mophato Dance Theatre. She has also trained with We Must Praise as a backing vocalist. Her musical journey has also seen her take the role of lead singer in a theatre play titled 'Excuse Me, Mr. President.'