22/04/2026
KOMPI: A PROUD BASS SINGER
MOSHUPA - Whatever happens in life can attract one's ebullience and curiousness. One of such occurrences could be when one wants to know this, "Why are there different notes for different voices in music?" What was once uttered by Doug Floyd, "You don't get harmony when everybody sings the same note," could be a relevant answer that would satisfy everyone.
From long time back Batswana are known for their mastery in creativity and rich culture, music inclusive. Music is one of the things Batswana pride themselves with.
Throughout the year, there are variety of festivities to choose from, especially towards end of the year. During this period where everyone are in gleeful mood, majority of people sought for traditional choirs as their source of entertainment over other events. They also take advantage of the choirs to socialise and hope that their choirs would triumph against their opponents.
One of such Batswana who pride themselves with traditional choirs at heart is none other than Moshupa native, Mr Mpota Kompi who proudly sings bass. With the stamina he had, Mr Kompi would last the whole night singing, and also displaying creativity at its best. "Ke ne ke sikara khwaere mo magetleng ame," he said in a jubilant mood. With this statement, one would think Mr Kompi is a colossus figure, and be enthusiastic to know more about him.
Furthermore, Mr Kompi would say, "Ke ne ke kgona go opela ke apeile, ke sa sala khwaere morago," adding that his voice would blend harmoniously with other voices. He revealed that he sang for Bakgatla Baker Choir which competes on January 1-2 annually against its opponent, Bangwaketse Baker Choir. The two choirs based in Moshupa and Kanye respectively, and have good fan base. According to history, their rivalry began around 1970s.
Additionally, if Mr Kompi attended an occasion where they were only few chairs and does not have one to sit on, he would simply squat and proudly say, "Ke santse ke itekanetse. Ke kgona go kotama ke gama podi. Balekane bame ba a palelwa." His love for the Setswana culture is equals to none. Apart from his creativity in song and dance, Mr Kompi is also known for his stunning wood curving skill and friendliness.
What more do you know about Mr Mpota Kompi?
