Gong Master’s Legacy to Be Honoured with Tombstone Unveiling

On June 28th, Batswana and members of the music fraternity will gather in Digawana for a special occasion, which happens to be the tombstone unveiling of one of Botswana’s most celebrated traditional music legends, the late Gong Master.Born Mponang Ketshabile, the renowned artist passed away in 2023 at the age of 50, following a short illness. The ceremony has been organised by his close friends within the music industry, with a leading role played by members of the celebrated Dikakapa Traditional Dance Troupe, of which Gong Master was a founding member. The event is a heartfelt tribute to a man whose legacy continues to shape Botswana’s music scene.Speaking to Sun, organiser Gaselame “Camie” Hendrick expressed the group’s motivation behind the initiative. “We felt it was important to honour Gong Master with a tombstone that reflects the depth of his contribution to music. It’s our way of celebrating the powerful legacy he left behind,” Hendrick explained.Known for his deep voice, rich lyrics, and electrifying performances, Gong Master not only enjoyed a successful solo career but also collaborated with notable artists such as Ditiro Leero and performed with groups like Makwakwa. Hendrick noted that Gong Master’s influence extended beyond Dikakapa, impacting the entire traditional music industry in Botswana. “We want to show appreciation for everything he did not just for us at Dikakapa, but for the entire country,” he added.The unveiling ceremony is expected to draw fans, fellow musicians, radio personalities, and close friends, including collaborators such as Ditiro Leero. Hendrick extended an open invitation to the public and appealed for support from individuals or companies wishing to contribute to the success of the event.One such supporter is Exact Tombstone, led by Kaone Gobotswang, who offered to donate a tombstone of the organisers' choice without placing any restrictions on price. “Gobotswang told us he had been a longtime fan of Gong Master’s music and simply wanted to honour him in a special way. The tombstone we selected truly befits his status,” Hendrick shared. In addition to the unveiling, a music festival in Gong Master’s honour is planned for later this year.The event is being organised by his son, Tawana ya Koma, as a further tribute to his father’s enduring influence. In conclusion, he also pleaded with Batswana and fans the legend to be part of this event in any way that they see fit.

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Gong Master’s Legacy to Be Honoured with Tombstone Unveiling