Chronicle Editor
Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]
IN a night destined to be etched in the annals of Amapiano history, Focalistic, the real name being Lethabo Sebetso, celebrated his meteoric rise to stardom right in his hometown, setting the stage ablaze with an electrifying one-man show dubbed “The Straata Nation Address” this past weekend.
With The Straata Nation Address, Focalistic, also affectionately known as The President of the Streets, issued his call to the masses, and they answered resoundingly.
Held at the Pretoria National Botanic Gardens, the event not only marked a pivotal career milestone for the young sensation but cemented his status as the undisputed President of the Streets.
Under the radiant glow of neon lights and pulsating Amapiano rhythms, more than 15,000 music enthusiasts congregated in an open-air venue, bearing witness to a night that would be etched in their memories forever—a night of music, unity, and pure magic.
The artiste who was in Zimbabwe last year in April spared no effort in delivering a show that would carve his name in the records of Southern African musical history. The line-up read like a who’s who of South African music, and specifically Amapiano royalty; featuring stellar performances by Blxckie, a G-Tech 2bit and DJ Tshegu, Sjava, Murdah Bongz, Dj PH, Tyler ICU, Pabi Cooper, and the dynamic duo Mellow & Sleazy. Foca had surprised guest acts from Ch’cco, M.J, and Eeque which had the crowd in awe. MC duties were masterfully handled by none other than the Skhanda queen herself, Moozlie.
While every track in Focalistic’s catalog is a hit, the crowd favorite of the night was undoubtedly Khekheleza. The audience’s euphoria reached a crescendo as they sang along to every word of this chart-topping anthem.
The production value of the show left attendees in awe, as a levitating stage added an otherworldly dimension to the performance. The highlight of the night came when a choir took to the stage to deliver breath-taking renditions of Focalistic’s iconic hits, leaving the audience spellbound.
In a reflective moment, Focalistic shared his thoughts to Chronicle Showbiz through Warner Music Africa saying:
“In all of these videos, I keep remembering that my mom was watching me perform for the first time. I can’t say thank you enough. History was made. Everything is possible with God, Botanical Gardens 2023, 15,000 voices,” said Focalistic.
Focalistic’s “Straata Nation Address” at Pretoria National Botanic Gardens was more than just a concert; it was a cultural phenomenon, a testament to the power of music, and a celebration of one of South Africa’s brightest musical talents.
@mthabisi_mthire
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter