Sereetsi is more than just a musician—he’s a storyteller, cultural ambassador, and pioneer of a unique musical movement. As the frontman of Sereetsi & The Natives, he blends the rich rhythms, native songs, and traditional dances of Botswana with modern influences, creating a sound that resonates both locally and globally. Known for his mastery of the four-string guitar, Sereetsi is also a songwriter, producer, and author whose work continues to push the boundaries of Botswana’s music scene. In this exclusive Q&A with PopPulse, he shares the inspiration behind his latest album, Mmabatho, the challenges of being an artist in Botswana, and what’s next for his musical journey.
1. What inspired the title Mmabatho, and does it hold any personal or cultural significance to you?
Mmabatho is a special dedication to my wife, Kagelelo. Through the song, I celebrate her and acknowledge her support, love, and strength in building my career as well as our beautiful family. Mmabatho has two meanings: one who mothers a nation, and the other is a special term of endearment for a king or royal leadership. The song, therefore, also speaks of how she is not only a nurturer but a community leader.
2. Can you tell us the story behind the creation of your new album Mmabatho, and what sparked this particular project?
I believe that as a songwriter and musician, it is important to keep on creating new works and new experiences for the Natives. My recordings capture a place in time. They record where I am as a breathing, living animal, and I believe that the experiences that I distill into song may be able to speak to the listener who may also be dealing with the same things. I have to check in now and then with where I am via these recordings also for myself to stay sane. I can’t live without creating art. It gives me life.
3. What’s the most memorable or surreal moment you’ve experienced while performing or creating music, and how has it shaped your approach to your craft?
It’s always a special, priceless feeling to have people you don’t even know vibing to the music that you have created. That never gets old. It inspires me to stay creating works of honest art even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges that come with the trade.
4. What role do you see your music playing in contributing to the growth of the music scene in Botswana?
My music occupies a special role because it is steeped in the cultural heritage of Botswana. Its continued existence and success speak to the fact that it is important to embrace and build from the uniqueness of one’s culture. That’s a recipe for the growth of the country’s cultural product, even as we constantly experiment with elements from elsewhere.
5. What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as an artist in Botswana, and how do you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges is a small market base. I have had to actively develop an international footprint through collaborations with fellow artists across the world and ensuring that I grab the attention of international festival bookers.
6. How do you think Mmabatho will resonate with both local and international audiences, and what do you hope listeners take away from the album?
I trust that the listeners will certainly enjoy the musically eclectic offering that is Mmabatho. I trust that they will appreciate the diversity of fresh sounds that the album packs and go about their lives with an openness and a curiosity to sample the beauty of worlds that they are unfamiliar with.
7. Have you collaborated with any other artists, producers, or musicians for this album? If so, what was that experience like?
I have collaborated with Kabelo Mogwe of Culture Spears, Mosako, and Mma Ausi. The experience is a priceless one in my growth as a musician as it exposes me to how others approach their craft. That can only enrich my own production process.
8. How do you balance traditional and modern elements in your music, and what’s your approach to innovation while staying true to your cultural heritage?
It’s a constant dance around the two worlds—I have to keep on immersing myself deeply in the two worlds. I find that by making sure that I have a pulse on what’s going on or went on in the past, I am able to find the elements that move me from both worlds. I am a keen and curious student of both worlds.
9. Imagine you’re hosting a dinner party for your musical influences. Who’s on the guest list, and what’s the soundtrack for the evening?
Stampore, Duncan Senyatso, Richard Bona, Sankomota, Hugh Masekela, Fela Kuti, and D’Angelo. The soundtrack will be Petere from Mmabatho.
10. What’s next for Sereetsi & The Natives? Are you working on any new projects or planning upcoming performances?
We are working on a tour of South Africa and the southern African region in celebration of our 10th anniversary as a professional recording act. We are also brewing new music for release later in the year.
Sereetsi’s passion for music is deeply rooted in Botswana’s cultural heritage, and his work continues to elevate traditional sounds on a global stage. With Mmabatho, he not only honors his personal journey but also invites listeners into a world of musical storytelling that bridges past and present. As he sets his sights on an international tour and new projects, Sereetsi & The Natives remain a powerful force in African music—one that will continue to inspire and innovate for years to come.
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