Motswako

Motswako
Stylistic origins
Cultural originsMid 1990s, Mafikeng, South Africa
Typical instruments
Other topics

Motswako is a subgenre of hip hop originating from South Africa additionally prominently popularized in Botswana. Mafikeng, the genre's origin point, is located close to the border of Botswana, where Setswana (Tswana) is predominantly spoken similar to Mafikeng. Motswako blends rap lyrics in local languages like Setswana with English over a steady beat. It also incorporates languages such as Sesotho, Zulu and Afrikaans depending on the artist's background. Popularized by South African acts like HHP and Baphixile (comprising "Prof" and "Blax Myth") in the late nineties, it gained a significant following among local audiences. Many emerging artists in South Africa use motswako as a foundation for their music careers due to its accessible principles, emphasizing creative writing skills crucial for mastering the genre. South Africa and Botswana boast a substantial pool of motswako artists, although female representation remains limited.[1][2][3]

In a recording session motswako rapper Zeus, pictured in 2010.
In a recording session motswako rapper Zeus, pictured in 2010.
  1. ^ Sosibo, Kwanele (26 October 2018). "HHP – the motswako legend who was one of a kind". Mail & Guardian. Archived from the original on 7 November 2018. Retrieved 23 April 2024.
  2. ^ Matheolane, Mpho Moshe (15 May 2013). "The return of Prof Sobukwe". Mail & Guardian. Archived from the original on 29 November 2016. Retrieved 23 April 2024.
  3. ^ Goldsmith, Melissa Dawn Ursula; Fonseca, Anthony J. (2018). Hip Hop Around the World An Encyclopedia (1st ed.). ABC-CLIO. p. 489. ISBN 9780313357596.