Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
LOSING a loved one usually has implications that are left and push one to design their future and this is the case for Lebohang Fottress Pitsi Dube, who took up music as a profession after losing a friend, Mandlenkosi Phehlo.
Phehlo is someone who took music as a delicacy, a soother to the heart and game changer in lives.
Seeing Phehlo gone, the Beitbridge native who uses the stage name Lebo Pitsi decided to celebrate his friend’s journey by honouring his legacy.
This, he has been doing for the past five years where he creates, produces and writes Amapiano and Afro pop songs.
Lebo Pitsi said his work is laced with different languages and styles as he wants to win the hearts of many across tribes and nationalities.
“Music’s been my thing since the Covid-19 days. I grew up vibing to South African gospel artistes like Sneh and Ingah, their passion and talent really lit a fire in me.
“I started writing my own songs, mixing poetry and speech-writing skills. I love writing in different languages like Ndebele, Sesotho, Tshivenda and Shona, it’s amazing how music can bridge gaps between communities.
“My journey into music started after losing a dear friend (Mandlenkosi Phehlo), who was also passionate about music. His passing sparked something in me, and I felt compelled to carry on his legacy in my own way.
“I began writing music, but funding studio sessions was a challenge,” he said.
Lebo Pitsi said three years ago was a game changing time for his career where he started putting his works out there.
“I started recording music in December 2022 and released my first single, Impumelelo, featuring Kowbah Touch, which was produced by Mark Geezo, in April 2023.
“Although it didn’t gain much traction, I didn’t give up. Later that year, in August, I released Amaputha, an Amapiano song that gained 1 000 views in a week. That success encouraged me to focus on Amapiano and I even taught myself to produce beats.
“Since then, I’ve been working on my craft, producing tracks for my songs, and pushing forward despite the challenges.
“Beitbridge might not be the easiest place to make it big, but I’m determined to make my mark.
“The difficulties that I faced made me come to Bulawayo, which is besides my Journalism and Media Studies degree, which l am working on,” said Lebo Pitsi.
As he works on his debut EP, Lebo Pitsi has dropped six songs namely Impumelelo, Amaphutha, Ngyakukhumbula featuring Youngstaray, Somandla, Dizemba and Athandwe.
“I am working on an EP, which consists of New Age Gospel songs (Amapiano). It will have Lewanika M and hopefully Amaculo Enjabulo, who the latter we are working on the logistics.
“I am teaming up with a clothing label called Black Effect from Beitbridge. So, people should expect more of black effect clothing.
“And I’m looking forward to performing at your weddings, parties and wherever l am booked,” said Lebo Pitsi. — @mthabisi_mthire
