By: Lebohang Maluke
MASERU
Tumelo Seliane, a rising star in the Gospel Hip Hop music scene, has recently been honored with a significant milestone in his career last year BEST HIP HOP ARTIST and BEST GOSPEL HIP HOP ARTIST awards. “It was a great feeling to receive such an honor,” Seliane shares, his voice filled with gratitude.
“We have so many artists in Lesotho, but getting such an honor is a privilege to me.” This recognition is not just a personal achievement for Seliane; it is a testament to the power of his music to connect with and uplift a community. He sees this honor as an opportunity to amplify his message of hope and continue his mission of positive change.
Seliane’s music is deeply personal, drawing from his own life experiences to offer comfort and strength to others. He does not shy away from vulnerability, openly sharing his struggles and achievements. “My music gives hope to the hopeless,” he explains. “I’m talking more about my life through my music, talking about such issues of losing my mum as she was murdered. This gives other orphans and people who are going through the same story as mine a sense of connection and understanding.” His music becomes a shared space for grief, healing, and resilience, reminding listeners that they are not alone in their struggles.
Central to Seliane’s message is his unwavering faith. He weaves his belief in Jesus into his lyrics, offering spiritual guidance and comfort to those who are hurting. “I also give them more about Jesus,” he says, “that he said he will never leave us as orphans, but with the Holy Spirit.” His music is not just entertainment; it is a ministry, a way to share his faith and inspire hope in others. He uses his platform to remind people of the promise of unwavering support and the power of faith to overcome adversity.
Beyond his music, he is actively involved in making a tangible difference in the lives of orphans in Lesotho. He has established a registered NGO that donates to orphanages, working to improve the living conditions and livelihoods of vulnerable children. This commitment to practical action demonstrates Seliane’s deep compassion and his desire to create lasting change in his community. He understands that hope needs to be nurtured with tangible support, and he is determined to provide both.
Seliane’s journey as a gospel hip hop artist has not been without its challenges. When he first started, the fusion of hip hop and gospel was a relatively unfamiliar concept in Lesotho. “As a gospel hip hop artist, it was really tricky when I started my career,” he recalls, “because so many people were not familiar with the combination of hip hop and gospel. I think that was the big issue.” He faced doubt and perhaps even criticism, but he remained committed in his vision. He believed in the power of his music to bridge divides and connect with people on a deeper level.
Through determination and unwavering dedication, Seliane has managed to win over listeners and cut out a space for gospel hip hop in the Lesotho music landscape. He offers advice to other aspiring gospel hip hop artists, encouraging them to stay true to their calling and ignore the negativity that may surround them. “The advice I can give to gospel hip hop artists is never listen to the negativity of this world, but listen to Jesus, the one who called you,” he highlights. His words are a testament to his own journey, a reminder that faith and perseverance can overcome obstacles.
His impact extends beyond the empire of music. He strives to bring about positive change in people’s lives, both mentally and physically. He believes that music has the power to transform lives, lifting people out of poverty and empowering them to achieve their full potential. He sees his music as a catalyst for change, inspiring hope and motivating individuals to strive for a better future.
Looking ahead, he has ambitious goals. He dreams of winning more awards, both within Lesotho and internationally, further amplifying his message and reaching a wider audience. He is also excited about his upcoming performance at the second Morija Music Festival, a significant event in the Lesotho music calendar. This platform will provide him with an opportunity to showcase his talent and connect with music lovers from across the region.
Reflecting on his journey, Seliane points to two pivotal moments that have shaped his career. The first was his trip to Kroonstad last year, where he shared the stage with renowned artists like Dumi Mokostad and Takie Ndou. This experience not only exposed him to a larger audience but also validated his talent and solidified his place in the music industry. The second pivotal moment was his participation in the INGOMA AWARDS in Polokwane, Limpopo. This recognition on a national platform further fueled his passion and solidified his commitment to his craft.
Tumelo Seliane’s story is one of resilience, faith, and the transformative power of music. He has overcome personal tragedy, defied expectations, and used his talent to uplift and inspire others. His music is a beacon of hope, offering solace to the hurting, empowering the marginalized, and spreading a message of faith and love.
As he continues to grow as an artist and a humanitarian, Seliane’s impact on the Lesotho community and beyond is sure to be profound. He is not just a musician; he is a voice for the voiceless, a champion for the vulnerable, and a testament to the enduring power of hope. His journey is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, music can heal, inspire, and transform lives.