He is known for his entertaining and energetic stage performance. Johnny Mokhali is certainly one of the artists who popularised Setswana folk music in both Botswana and South Africa in the early 80’s. Back then Johnny and his ex-wife Mpule’s music ruled and they rode a crest of glory with a considerable following in the country. They got a break-through with album Mpule which was dedicated to Mpule. However, it was the album Lorato ka Mogala that made Johnny a star. The once hero of Tswana pop is expected to set Botswana Craft alight on August 14. He will perform for two nights in Gaborone alongside the princess of Africa and South Africa’s top selling female singer, Yvonne Chaka Chaka on her Motherland tour. He is likely to serenade revelers with his popular tunes which are still widely appreciated in different venues across the country.
Though with time his career took bit of a dive Johnny has been crafting and creating sounds that earned him a large following. He continued to receive airplay from local radio stations. Some of the favorite songs were Modimo o phala baloi and Rorisa ka bokgoni. Lorato ka mogala was an instant hit and the Mokhali’s were treated like royalty during their Botswana tours. Other albums followed but towards the dawn of the 21st century, the star of the Mikhail’s started to wane and so did his marriage to Mpule. Last year, the South African born artist came to the country to promote his latest album ke Motho but did not arouse the euphoria of the past. He is however expected to throw a spectacular show after many years of absence from the music scene.
“I can assure Batswana a live music experience full of pleasure, and goose- bumps. I am going to treat them to material from my Seikukhutle album, which I believe they are going to appreciate greatly. I will be performing live this time around, “ Johnny told BG Style.
The music star’s artistic talent is known both locally and beyond boarders, and most recognize him playing alongside his ex-wife. However he has recorded songs with his current wife whom will be introduced to Batswana for the first time.
The shows are slated for August 13 and 14.
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