Melodscape

Maseru- At the 2024 Lesotho Music Awards (LMAs) , the legendary Mme Puseletso Seema was honored with the “Lifetime Achievement Award” , a testament to her enduring influence and unparalleled contributions to Famo music genre. Born in 1949 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Mme Mpuse's journey from humble beginnings to becoming the “Queen Of Famo” is a narrative of talent, resilence, and unwavering dedication.

Early Life And Musical Beginnings Raised by her aunt in Johannesburg, Mme Mpuse’s early life was often marked by hardships. Despite societal norms that often sidelined women in music, she begand composing songs while tending to cattle, showcasing her innate musical talent.

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Musical Evolution And Top Songs

Mme Mpuse’s discography reflects her life experiences and the rich tapestry of the Basotho culture. Here are five of her most notable songs as recommended by her and the stories behind them.

1. “Ea Pota Ngoetsi”

“This song was born from a deeply personal moment,” Mme Mpuse explains. “I needed to reprimand my daughter-in-law when we were living in Gauteng. She knew what she had done, and sadly, her child passed away during that time. In her grief and anger, she called me a witch and this song was my response- a way of expressing my pain and addressing the accusations.” The raw emotions heard from this track have revealed Mme Mpuse honesty and her ability to turn even the most painful experiences into art.

2. “Ke A Ikokobetsa”

Humility is a recurring theme in Mme Mpuse’s life, and it inspired this reflective song. “I was speaking to my family and those around me,asking them to humble themselves in whatever they do,” she says. “But to teach humility, I had to first humble myself, as I always do.” This track, infused with humility and wisdom, showcases her ability to lead by example through her music.

3. “Ntate Sefuba”

“Ntate Sefuba was a man who played the Corican for me,” Mme Mpuse recalls fondly. “He created the harmonies that set the rhythm for people to dance and once everyone was in sync, I started reciting poems that match the melody. This song is my tribute to him, a celebration of our musical collaborations and a thanks to his unique contributions to my journey.”

4. “Ntate Sekali”

One of Mme Mpuse’s most influential songs, “Ntate Sekali,” honors a man who selflessly helped others including Mme Mpuse herself. “Ntate Sekali was a generous soul,” she says. “He supported orphans and underprivileged people. He also helped me out by giving me free rides to Gauteng whenever I needed to travel. He saw the potential in me, even when I had so little. This song is my way of telling him not to forgive me, just as he did not forget others.” Mme Mpuse expressed.

5. “Basali Le Ntlhoile Keng”

This track speaks to the challenges Mme Mpuse faced as a woman in the male-dominated Famo music scene. “When I started doing Famo, a lot of women disliked me,” she reveals. “They accused me of taking their men. But I told them through this song that I did not take their men- I took mine, from the cathedral circle, and I am happy with him.” Bold and unapologetic, this song is a declaration of her strength and independence.

A Legacy Rooted In Resilience

Mme Puseletso Seema’s music process is as organic as it is profound. “Whatever happens to me, I react through music,” she says. “Every song comes from a real place, and that has been my creative process since childhood.” Her ability to translate life’s trials into music has made her a voice for the Basotho people, a cultural icon whose work transcends generations.

Receiving the “Lifetime Achievement Award” is a testament to her impact, but for Mme Mpuse, the journey continues. “This award is not just mine- it belongs to everyone who has ever supported me, listened to my music, or believed in my stories. My legacy will be one of truth, culture and the unapologetic celebration of who we are as Basotho.” as she welcomed this award proudly.

In closing, what more can be written about Mme Puseletso Seema? She has honestly done it all, from addressing personal pain to celebrating cultural heritage through her music. Her songs, rooted in authenticity and storytelling, are timeless. She continues to inspire through her artistry, she remains a beacon of strength and resilience, proving that music is truly the soul’s language.

Photo credits: LMA

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