By: Kananelo Maphenchene
MASERU
In Lesotho’s fast-growing music industry, much of the spotlight is often on artists, while those working behind the scenes receive little recognition. One such figure making waves in the industry is Letlotlo Nkuebe, a young entrepreneur with a vision for transforming the local music landscape. In July 2024, she established Letlotlo Entertainment, a recording studio based in Mohale’s Hoek, Mohlakeng. Her goal is to create a space where musicians can not only record their music but also develop their artistry and gain exposure.
Nkuebe’s passion for music and her desire to create opportunities for local artists inspired her to open the studio. “I have always been passionate about music and providing opportunities for local artists to produce high-quality records. Opening a recording studio allowed me to combine these interests and contribute to the growth of our music community,” she says. For her, this venture is not just about business; it is about empowering musicians, offering them professional services, and helping them navigate the competitive music industry.
Although still in its early stages, Letlotlo Entertainment has already attracted a steady stream of clients, including local musicians, bands, and producers. “We are a newly established recording studio, so we haven’t yet completed many projects. However, since opening, we have hosted countless sessions, mostly with my team, and have seen a significant increase in bookings, even though some are still being finalised,” Nkuebe explains. The growing interest in the studio demonstrates the demand for professional recording spaces in Lesotho, as artists seek high-quality production to compete on a broader scale.
Letlotlo Entertainment is more than just a recording space, it is a fully equipped production house where Nkuebe and her team handle all aspects of music production. From recording and engineering to mixing and mastering, they oversee every stage of the process, ensuring that artists receive top-tier production quality. Their dedication to excellence has positioned the studio as a trusted creative space for local musicians looking to elevate their sound.
Nkuebe takes pride in the fact that her team consists of passionate professionals who are committed to providing the best sound quality possible. “We handle all the production in-house, which ensures consistency and a personalised touch for every project. Our mission is to make sure that every artist who records with us leaves with a product that they are proud of,” she says. This hands-on approach is part of what sets Letlotlo Entertainment apart from other recording spaces in the region.
Beyond providing a space for music production, Letlotlo Entertainment is quickly becoming a hub for artistic collaboration, learning, and growth. The studio is currently developing plans to host music events, offering local artists opportunities to showcase their talents. These events will provide an essential platform for emerging artists to gain exposure, connect with industry professionals, and reach new audiences. Additionally, Nkuebe and her team are working on training initiatives aimed at aspiring producers and sound engineers. “We are also strategising on how best to promote local music talent in a way that contributes to the vibrant cultural scene in our community,” she adds.
One of the key elements of Letlotlo Entertainment’s growth plan is education. Nkuebe believes that training the next generation of sound engineers and producers is crucial for the sustainability of Lesotho’s music industry. She plans to introduce workshops and mentorship programmes that will equip young creatives with the necessary skills to succeed in the field. By offering hands-on training, the studio aims to bridge the gap between raw talent and industry-level expertise.
Looking ahead, Nkuebe envisions expanding Letlotlo Entertainment’s services to include music production workshops, artist development programmes, and live performance events. “We want to go beyond just recording. We want to create a movement that supports musicians in every aspect of their careers,” she explains. The studio is also exploring partnerships with professional musicians, music organisations, and educational institutions to further support the growth of Lesotho’s music industry. Collaborating with industry experts and stakeholders will help provide artists with more opportunities to showcase their work and gain access to valuable resources.
With its commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering a thriving music scene, Letlotlo Entertainment is poised to become a key player in the country’s entertainment industry. As Nkuebe and her team continue to build on their early success, their contributions promise to leave a lasting impact on Lesotho’s creative landscape. By providing artists with a professional environment to produce, learn, and grow, the studio is playing a crucial role in shaping the future of music in Lesotho.
As the studio continues to evolve, Nkuebe remains focused on her mission to elevate the local music scene. “This is just the beginning. We have big plans for the future, and we are excited to see where this journey takes us,” she says. With passion, dedication, and a clear vision, Letlotlo Entertainment is on track to becoming a cornerstone of Lesotho’s music industry, paving the way for a new generation of artists and producers.