Melodscape

MASERU - The new era of the Lesotho's music industry now thrives on authenticity and originality, Lits’epe LR is no exception as he carves his own path with his debut EP, Kopano Ke Matla. More than just a musical project, the EP is a statement that reflects his journey, his roots, and his vision for unity through music.

A NAME WITH A LEGACY Born and raised in Mathokoane, Leribe, Lits’epe LR’ s name carries meaning beyond just a stage identity. “Lits’epe” symbolizes strength and resilience, qualities that have defined his journey both personally and musically while “ LR” signifies his home in Leribe, as he is a very proud native of the district. The district notoriously known for loving the green color, Lits’epe decided to use it as a prominent color for his project’s artwork. Growing up in a country with a rich but underappreciated music scene, he found inspiration in the everyday struggles and triumphs of his people, and also, he gives credit to initiation school, as it helps him reflect on his reality and gives him peace as his music now blends storytelling with a powerful, emotive sound.

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THE ROAD TO KOPANO KE MATLA

Lits’epe LR’s journey into music was not an overnight success. Before his transition to Lits’epe, he used to go by Ntate Ckay LS, where he explains, “The difference between Ntate Ckay and Lits’epe is, Ntate Ckay used to make music for the fun of it, and then send his music to people in his Whatsapp contact list, while Lits’epe is more intentional with his music, as I have grown stronger with my music.” Before releasing Kopano Ke Matla, he spent a few years honing his craft, experimenting with sounds, and refining his lyrical ability as well as figuring out his weak and strong points. His music that is heavily influenced by traditional Sesotho storytelling sound (Makhele), combined with contemporary sounds that bridge the gap between old and new.

Prior to this EP, he released several singles that hinted at his potential, but Kopano Ke Matla is the first complete body of work where he fully showcases his artistic identity. The title, meaning “Unity is strength”, reflects his belief in the power of collaboration and community- both within the industry and life in general.

A SOUND THAT STANDS OUT

One of Lits’epe LR’s greatest strengths is his ability to blend different musical elements while staying true to his heritage. His sound is a fusion of Hip-Hop, Ts’epe (Lesotho’s rising rap subgenre), Afro-fusion and Sesotho Poems (Makhele), which all have a very strong traditional influence. This EP is a testament to his ability to experiment while maintaining a distinct musical identity.

THEMES AND MESSAGES OF KOPANO KE MATLA

The EP dives into themes of unity, struggle, resilience and hope. Lits’epe LR believes that music should do more than entertain- it should inspire and educate. Each track tells a different story, tracks like ‘Sebapale Ka Nna’ showcase his emotional vulnerability as he pens down his feelings to the girl he admires, ‘Haeso Ke Hole’ feat Qhomane, his label mate, from Mets'oaka Records explains everything about his hometown Leribe and the good and bad that came from the place, as highlights of betrayal are also stated in the song, ‘Basali’ feat Sannere appreciates all the women in the world, as it showcases their strengths within our community and for 'Makhele' feat Sannere and Ntate Leraisa, showcases the amazing skill all artists have with using “Lithoko” to give out messages, and these are a few of the themes that show the reality faced by many Basotho people.

From songs that celebrate unity and collaboration to those that reflect on personal hardships, Kopano Ke Matla takes listeners on an emotional journey. The lyrics are raw and honest, drawing from his own experiences and those of the people around him.

THE CHALLENGES OF STAYING TRUE TO HIS VISION

Like many artists, Lits’epe LR faced numerous challenges in bringing his debut EP to life. From consistent rescheduling, to finding a sound to deal with, he had to navigate a difficult landscape to ensure his music stayed true to his vision. One of the biggest struggles was balancing the influence of modern music trends while ensuring that his sound remains unique.

The rising Ts’epe movement in Lesotho posed an interesting challenge- the genre is gaining a lot of popularity, and he wanted to ensure he does not sound like other artists but instead incorporated elements of this sound to this project in a way that felt authentic to his personal style.

WHAT IS NEXT FOR LITS’EPE LR?

With the success of Kopano Ke Matla, Lits’epe LR is already looking ahead. He has plans to release more singles and visuals accompanying the EP, further expanding its reach. Performances are also a major focus, as he wants to connect more with his audience through his powerful stage presence and storytelling.

“Beyond music, I hope to create a movement that encourages more collaborations among artists in Lesotho as I believe that unity within the industry will lead to its growth and recognition beyond country’s borders”, as Lits’epe shares.

A DEBUT THAT MARKS THE BEGINNING OF SOMETHING BIGGER

Kopano Ke Matla is more than just an EP- it is an introduction to who Lits’epe LR is as an artist and a message to his listeners that unity and strength go hand in hand. With a unique sound, a powerful story, and a clear vision for the future, Lits’epe LR is poised to make a lasting impact on Lesotho’s music scene.

As he continue his journey, one thing is certain- this is just the beginning.

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