Amanandos Return...promise to be Botswana’s next export
Source : Kutlwano
Author : Terry Makgoeng
Location : GABORONE
Event : Music
Now a previously self-exiled group, Amanandos, is rising from the ashes and promises to not only take the music and dance scene by storm but to eventually join other exports to make the country proud. Amanandos as they call themselves – a name deriving from their love for Nandos` hot flavour - say they have previously tested the waters and are ready to take the plunge. “Back in 2007 we won the teen category of My African Dream. The competition gave us a lot of exposure and helped create a fan base for us,” says Thato “Chefgustos”Modukanele.
After conquering My African Dream the then four- member dance group never looked back. They extended their horizon and embraced kwaito.
Now with fine dance moves and great singing voices, the group felt confident to record.
Their sizzling single, Camera Photo, released in 2009 easily made it to Yarona Fm`s top 20 hits in 2010.
“That good reception was just an introduction to our singing career,” quips Thato`s stable mate and brother, Emmanuel.
Their next release, also a single, Dira jaana was equally well received and made it to Yarona Fm`s top 20.
The group is currently working on its third, Tsotsi Anthem, which they plan to have on the shelves and airwaves soon.
This time around the group has featured a lot of upcoming artistes among them Ci-Ci, Reacxion and Moello.
They will also feature Teknoize who is also a producer. While trying to increase its repertoire, the group continues to perform at social functions.
“We continue to perform at different events and corporate functions as we have been doing since 2007. We have actually realised that performing at corporate functions is worth doing because we at least have someone taking us seriously,” says Emmanuel.
The trio, which includes Kanye born Thabang “Flazer” Teseletso, can make as much as P9000 per night from a corporate engagement. Amanandos do all their recording from their own Gaborone based studio, Home Run Records. Having own studio makes life easier, says Thato.
That is because you are able to play around with your music to see which is most suitable without being afraid of paying.
“We want to see what kind of music Batswana appreciate from us, then maybe we would specialise in that particular genre,” he adds.
The group also signs on new and upcoming artistes. For example, they are currently working with Skeat, Dj Carera, Ntsimbi, Zwai and Dj Badculah, among others.
Their aim is to nurture upcoming artistes who have the same passion for music, willing to work hard and determined to make it in the music industry.
Back in 2007, they embarked on training young choreographers and formed two dance teenage groups. Both groups, whose training was Emmanuel`s singular honour, were fairly commended at My African Dream. The girls` group got the Judges Award while the boys group received the Viewers` Choice Award.
The boys believe their journey through the music jungle was made easier by the mentoring they received from already established musicians.
These include Taolo Moshaga who mentored them on the business and management side of music, Odirile Sento aka Vee and Thato Matlhabaphiri aka Scar.
“Considering established artistes hardly ever have time, it was quite a privilege to be mentored by these,” says Thato.
It is largely from the mentorship that they received that the group has not looked for a manager.
At the moment the skills that they received from their uncle – Moshaga – and their big brothers suffice.
The group has big plans. In the past they have also worked with MMP and a hip hop group, Real Magosi.
They are also currently working with Scar and Lizibo in their upcoming album.
They sky appears to be the limit for Amanandos but at the end of the day, it is only determination, focus and endurance that will allow them that coveted slot in the world of fame. ENDS
Teaser:
There is no question Botswana`s arts scene has shaken its backwater reputation and turned in some fine performances over the past several years. The country has been exporting not just its finest music but also some of its finest artistes. These include Mr Tag and Zeus both of whom are based in South Africa, John Selolwane, acclaimed across the world for his participation in the Graceland Tour and Trinity who plies his trade in Canada...
