Mj-Austin to bring healing and music at ‘Restored’ live recording
Lebakwaeng Modisathebe, 24-year-old man, better known as Mj-Austin and first runner-up of My Star 2022, is ready to take the stage for her live recording Restored on 22 November 2025. But this is not just a music show; it is a night of inspiration, hope, and a little bit of magic for everyone who attends.
Mj-Austin’s love for music started young, really young. He was just nine years old when he performed “Fool Again” by Westlife at his kindergarten graduation.
“I chose it simply because I loved it,” he says. “My parents, family, and everyone else were there to cheer me on. Looking back, it is funny because the song was about love and breakups something I
did not understand at that age but I felt like I was telling a story. That moment planted the seed for my passion for music and storytelling.”
His music is a mix of English, Setswana, and French, a choice he makes intentionally. “I want people to understand and feel the words,” he explains. “Blending languages lets me share both faith and culture in a way that feels real and connects with everyone.”
Mj-Austin’s rise in the spotlight came with My Star 2022, where he finished as first runner-up. He says it gave him exposure and helped build a fan base. “It was not a turning point exactly, but it was an important step. After My Star, I spent time finding my true sound and understanding what I wanted to bring to music. That reflection helped me grow as an artist.”
The upcoming Restored live recording is personal. “The idea came from a time in my life when things were falling apart. I felt crushed and ready to give up,” he shares. “During a trip to Zimbabwe, I had a quiet moment with God, and He gave me the word ‘Restoration.’ This event is not just a performance; it is a moment for people to feel restored, no matter what they have gone through.”
“Even when we fall, struggle, or face challenges, He’s there. Sometimes we forget, but He never leaves. Through Restored, I want people to know they are never alone and that God is still fighting for them.”
His songs come from life experiences. “Every song I write is personal. I reflect on what I have been through and what God has brought me out of. That honesty makes the music real. I’m not just creating songs, I’m sharing my life.”
He also sees his role in Botswana’s gospel industry as more than singing. “The truth sets me apart the honesty in my lyrics, the originality of my sound, and the impact I want to bring. Gospel music is not just about singing; it’s about living your faith.”
“I want to host international tours, not for fame, but so God can be recognized through me. My goal is to reach as many people as possible. For the next generation of gospel artists, I want my journey to inspire them. Whatever you put your mind and faith into can happen.”
Fans coming to Restored should expect a night of healing, encouragement, and hope, all wrapped up in Mj-Austin’s heartfelt songs.
Mj-Austin’s love for music started young, really young. He was just nine years old when he performed “Fool Again” by Westlife at his kindergarten graduation.
“I chose it simply because I loved it,” he says. “My parents, family, and everyone else were there to cheer me on. Looking back, it is funny because the song was about love and breakups something I
did not understand at that age but I felt like I was telling a story. That moment planted the seed for my passion for music and storytelling.”
His music is a mix of English, Setswana, and French, a choice he makes intentionally. “I want people to understand and feel the words,” he explains. “Blending languages lets me share both faith and culture in a way that feels real and connects with everyone.”
Mj-Austin’s rise in the spotlight came with My Star 2022, where he finished as first runner-up. He says it gave him exposure and helped build a fan base. “It was not a turning point exactly, but it was an important step. After My Star, I spent time finding my true sound and understanding what I wanted to bring to music. That reflection helped me grow as an artist.”
The upcoming Restored live recording is personal. “The idea came from a time in my life when things were falling apart. I felt crushed and ready to give up,” he shares. “During a trip to Zimbabwe, I had a quiet moment with God, and He gave me the word ‘Restoration.’ This event is not just a performance; it is a moment for people to feel restored, no matter what they have gone through.”
“Even when we fall, struggle, or face challenges, He’s there. Sometimes we forget, but He never leaves. Through Restored, I want people to know they are never alone and that God is still fighting for them.”
His songs come from life experiences. “Every song I write is personal. I reflect on what I have been through and what God has brought me out of. That honesty makes the music real. I’m not just creating songs, I’m sharing my life.”
He also sees his role in Botswana’s gospel industry as more than singing. “The truth sets me apart the honesty in my lyrics, the originality of my sound, and the impact I want to bring. Gospel music is not just about singing; it’s about living your faith.”
“I want to host international tours, not for fame, but so God can be recognized through me. My goal is to reach as many people as possible. For the next generation of gospel artists, I want my journey to inspire them. Whatever you put your mind and faith into can happen.”
Fans coming to Restored should expect a night of healing, encouragement, and hope, all wrapped up in Mj-Austin’s heartfelt songs.
