Feature
CHUBBITO CELEBRATES 10 YEARS OF NECESSARY NOISE
It has been a decade since the release of Botswana’s hip hop top-tier artist Chubbito (formerly known as Chub Heightz) debut Necessary Noise. He is embarking on an appearance and performance tour around the city, and TDA DIAMOND TIMES caught up with him to discuss the achievement.
Q: For those who don’t know. Who is Chub Heightz/ Chubbito?
A: Chub is a real down-to-earth guy from Lobatse – Bandleng. I’m an Educator in my academic professional life and a creative, and extreme lover of the arts at Heart.
Q: Why the switch from Chub Heightz to Chubbito?
A: The switch was motivated by the shift I made in my career with regard to the music I was making at the time. I had always been told that I give off 2 different musical personas. The first was the American Rap style persona that came through my music as Chub Heightz. Then there was another side that had a more township/Street Kwaito side to me. And this was the side that people felt reflected the Lobatse side of me. Lobatse is popularly known for its Kwaito and Pantsola background as a result of the South African influence. But that’s a whole other history lesson that I’ll get into when I’m on Oprah next week (laughs). So basically that shift I took to making a fusion of my American Rap music and the Kwaito township sound is what brought about the name change. And I chose the name Chubbito because it was always there as an alias and it wasn’t too far from my original stage name Chub Heightz.
Q: Looking at your career, would you say you have achieved everything you had set out to do?
A: No. I can definitely say I haven’t achieved everything I had set out to accomplish.
Q: It’s been 10years of Necessary Noise. How are you celebrating the album?
A: I’ve decided that I’m going to push to do as many appearances and performances as possible. The performances will purely be themed around Necessary Noise. These performances are basically leading up to 1 final Show towards the end of the year. Apart from that I have a few ideas I’d like to explore that I think my fans would really appreciate. I just can’t say much now because I don’t want to jinx anything yet.
Q: Has the album aged in the way you wanted to? What else are you planning for it?
A:I actually believe it has aged well. I listen to it once or twice every year and I love how a lot of the subject matter still resonates with me today.
Q: Are you still signed to Markedmen? If not, who owns the rights to the album?
A: Yes I’m still signed to Markedmen Records as an artist. The rights to the album are jointly owned by me and Markedmen Records.
Q: You recently released Bandleng King, a solid album with little promotion, how was that experience?
A: I appreciate that stamp of dopeness. The experience wasn’t the most pleasant particularly because the album had been ready for a while by the time I released it. So my heart and mind weren’t exactly where they were when I made it. So trying to remember what it felt like making some of the Music was hard to recreate.
Q: What does the future hold for Chubbito? Any plans for a tell all book?
A: I have been toying with different ideas of things to venture into that could be an extension of my brand, writing a book being 1 of them but im just not sure if a “tell all” would be the type of book I’d write. But hey, never say never right?
In terms of the future, performing this album has woken something in me. Whatever it is I’m liking it because for the 1st time in years I’m writing music again. So I can confidently say I will be releasing music some day. I can’t give an exact date because I’m still enjoying finding my way back.
Q: What advice do you have for a young person looking to get into the music Industry?
A:
1. Talent is never enough.
2. This game will take a lot from you emotionally, spiritually and most of all financially. So be 3. prepared to give a lot especially financially.
4. Be real with yourself about your bottom line. Always ask yourself how you are going to make money with every move that you make.
5. Ask questions everytime you are unsure about something. Never be afraid of sounding stupid when you ask about something you are unsure about. Ask until you actually get it.
6. Try by all means to pay upfront for everything you need and always keep receipts.
7. Plan your career from where you want it to end and work backwards.
Q: How do people get a hold of you
A: For inquiries you can contact me on 71217442/ 72381322. Or email me on chubbookings@gmail.com
Otherwise follow me on my social media handles: Chubbito BandlengKing on Facebook and
Chubbito267 on Instagram and Twitter.
The Dawn of a Prodigy
When Atasaone Molemogi—better known as ATI—burst onto Botswana’s music scene, he carried with him more than raw talent. He carried a calling. His early mixtapes Batho Bame, Envelope, and Polao Ya Motho were not polished pop packages, but raw blueprints of a restless mind searching for language.
Even then, ATI stood apart. He was unafraid to bend Setswana idioms into rap cadences, to lace hip-hop bravado with folklore, to fuse the street and the sacred. EBW Magazine documented those first sparks, noting how his mixtapes became cult classics long before they were widely available on streaming platforms.
Pull-Quote: “It’s not about me, it’s not about you, it’s all about the people.” – ATI
Songs That Became Mirrors
ATI’s songs didn’t just entertain—they reflected. He sang of love stripped of glamour, of battles against addiction and despair, of identity in flux. Each track was an invitation to look inward.
- Cheektu’cheek / Peipi / Arrr Bueng: playful yet poignant, showing ATI’s ability to create anthems while slipping in hard truths.
- After Dawn: a lyrical meditation that merged personal reflection with national anxieties.
- Nrelease: a commentary on love, emotional truth, and materialism.
- Unfamiliar: a late-career piece weaving Setswana proverbs and existential thought into a sonic canvas.
EBW’s coverage of these works highlighted how ATI transformed songs into mirrors. His art was never passive listening—it demanded participation, introspection, sometimes even discomfort.
The Artist as Oracle
What made ATI unique was his willingness to act as both artist and oracle. He used stages, interviews, and even social media to hold conversations with his people. He dared to expose his vulnerability, and in that act, he gave his fans permission to do the same.
EBW’s reflective pieces often positioned him as a “seer”—one who could make sense of the chaos of modern Botswana through rhyme, rhythm, and raw honesty.
A Public Life, A Personal Struggle
ATI’s genius was inseparable from his struggle. He confronted depression, substance abuse, and the weight of public expectation openly. Campaigns like #FreeATI revealed not just fan loyalty, but the emotional contract between him and his audience.
His shows, whether at Mascom Live Sessions or smaller venues, were not mere concerts—they were communal rituals. Fans didn’t just watch; they healed, cried, and shouted alongside him.
Sidebar: Discography Highlights
- Batho Bame (Mixtape) – Raw introduction, deeply rooted in Setswana consciousness.
- Envelope (Mixtape) – Experimental flows, mixing bravado and vulnerability.
- Polao Ya Motho (Mixtape) – Dark, confrontational, prophetic.
- Khiring Khiring Khorong – A career-defining anthem.
- Setimamolelo – A track that cemented his role as Botswana’s voice of resilience.
- Nrelease – Exploring love, honesty, and the rejection of shallow materialism.
- Unfamiliar – A lyrical farewell, questioning life, meaning, and legacy.
A Nation in Mourning, A Legacy in Bloom
When ATI passed in August 2025, Botswana paused. Tributes poured from state leaders, fellow musicians, fans, and global admirers. Memorials became celebrations, funerals became protests, and his absence became a rallying cry for reform in the creative sector.
Calls grew louder for proper legislation, health and financial safety nets for artists, and recognition of the arts as the pulse of Botswana’s identity. In death, ATI became what he had always been in life—a catalyst.
The Echo That Will Never Fade
Today, ATI’s music remains on playlists, but more importantly, it remains in the national psyche. His catalogue is now part of Botswana’s cultural archives, shaping not only how we listen, but how we remember, reflect, and reform.
EBW Magazine has had the privilege of walking beside him—from mixtapes to milestones, from controversies to catharsis. And now, as we bid farewell, we honor him with the same reverence he showed his people: unapologetic, vulnerable, and unafraid.
Final Pull-Quote: Rest in power, Atasaone Molemogi. You were more than music—you were movement.
Related EBW Articles on ATI
- A.T.I Drops Classic Mixtapes ‘Batho Bame’, ‘Envelope’, and ‘Polao Ya Motho’ for Streaming
- ATI drops ‘Cheektu’cheek’, ‘Peipi’ & ‘Arrr Bueng’ in quick succession
- Watch A.T.I’s new “AFTER DAWN” Music Video
- Stream ATI’s ‘NRELEASE’ Single
- ATI’s new single “Unfamiliar” journeys through meaning and life
- Meaningful Expressions: Reflecting on ATI’s music, journey & social voice
In Botswana, a wave of creativity has been sweeping through the semi-desert country, particularly in the digital content creation space, where video producers are taking center stage. These individuals are not only shaping narratives but also redefining entrepreneurship in the creative industry. Let’s take a look at some of the notable figures who are making waves in the country’s video production scene, offering insight for anyone keen on understanding what’s happening in this space or who to look out for. This isn’t a definitive list but rather an attempt to catalogue the creative culture and entrepreneurship space. Here goes:
Leo Gucci: With a rich background in music intertwined with a mastery of corporate video production and photography, Leo Gucci stands as a beacon of creative versatility. His portfolio spans a kaleidoscope of projects, each bearing the hallmark of his ingenuity and artistic flair.
Gonna Elvis: Renowned for his captivating street photography and impactful corporate work, Gonna Elvis is the driving force behind The Photographers, a visionary company dedicated to encapsulating Botswana’s essence through visual storytelling.
Local Corner: A dynamic powerhouse spanning music videos, corporate endeavors, and podcasting, Local Corner embodies the spirit of multifaceted creativity. Their collaboration with SCAR on a widely acclaimed podcast underscores their commitment to narrative exploration across diverse mediums.
Owen Bands: A luminary in the industry, Owen Bands has sculpted the visual identities of numerous emerging artists, shaping the landscape of Botswana’s music scene. His return to filmmaking heralds a new chapter marked by innovation and fresh perspectives.
Cyc Jouzy: Revered for his impeccable visual aesthetic and unwavering professionalism, Cyc Jouzy reigns supreme as a titan of music video production in Botswana. His extensive body of work serves as a testament to his dedication and mastery of the craft.
ReMmogo Visuals: Leading the vanguard of the new creative wave, Bokang of ReMmogo Visuals epitomizes the relentless pursuit of excellence. Through tireless collaboration and a steadfast commitment to quality, he has emerged as a trailblazer within the industry.
Neo Visuals: Exemplifying the pinnacle of professionalism, Neo Visuals brings a touch of sophistication to every project they undertake. Their prowess in corporate videography elevates Botswana’s visual storytelling to new heights.
Eyes of Bryce: Despite being a newcomer to the scene, Eyes of Bryce has swiftly carved a niche for themselves with their crisp visuals and innovative approach. Their collaborations with esteemed artists like Ozi F Teddy foreshadow a future brimming with promise and creativity.
Bone Buzae: A polymath of talent, Bone Buzae effortlessly transitions between music and content production, epitomizing the spirit of creative fluidity. His evolution from rapper to content creator embodies the entrepreneurial ethos that defines Botswana’s creative zeitgeist.
Mdu Tha Party: Leveraging his influence from radio to social media, Mdu Tha Party has cemented his status as a prolific content creator. His podcasts and vlogs serve as vibrant tapestries showcasing the diverse tapestry of Botswana’s talent.
Good Vision: With a background steeped in music and entrepreneurship, Tabz of Good Vision brings a wealth of experience to his video productions. His contributions to podcasts and media platforms have solidified his position as a luminary within the industry.
Azizi Golekanye: As the visionary founder of Renov8Media, Azizi Goleknaye spearheads Botswana’s foray into film and music video production. His commitment to innovation and quality has garnered accolades both locally and on the international stage.
Super Honorable Mentions:
- Jack Bohloko: Making waves in music videos internationally, Jack Bohloko represents Botswana’s talent on the global stage.
- Serena Mmifinyana & Nikita Mokwagre: Trailblazers in a male-dominated industry, these two pioneering women leave an indelible mark on film and multimedia, particularly in their work with Multichoice.
- Director Mo: Renowned for his collaborations with William La, Director Mo is a force to be reckoned with in the realm of visual storytelling.
- Thebe Radiakwana: With a background in film education from Beijing, Thebe Radiakwana’s directorial prowess knows no bounds.
- Shike Olsen: A pioneer in media ownership and music videos, Shike Olsen continues to push boundaries in the creative sphere.
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6cgBRkSLLWg
- Moabo Mogorosi: A legend in the field of TV commercials, Moabo Mogorosi’s contributions to the industry are unparalleled.
- Smokie Mogapi: From music videos to TV shows, Smokie Mogapi’s creative journey is a testament to Botswana’s innovation and talent.
- Otsetswe Sedimo: As the founder of Torch Studios, Otsetswe Sedimo brings a unique perspective to corporate and music video production.
- Thabiso Maretlwaneng: Leading the charge with his company, Dee Zone, Thabiso Maretlwaneng is a powerhouse in the production industry, particularly with his work on “Pula Power.”
- Botlhe Trekbond: Based in Maun, Botlhe Trekbond’s wildlife videography captures the beauty of Botswana’s natural landscapes.
- Thalefang Charles: With a focus on photography for National Geographic, Thalefang Charles showcases Botswana’s diverse ecosystems on a global scale.
- New Look Studios: A TV production company based in Lobatse, New Look Studios is at the forefront of Botswana’s television industry.
In addition to these luminaries and honorable mentions, a constellation of other visionary creators shines brightly, each contributing their unique flair to Botswana’s rich tapestry of digital content creation. From international collaborations to grassroots initiatives, these individuals collectively embody the spirit of innovation and creativity that defines Botswana’s creative landscape. As the industry continues to evolve, their collective vision promises to illuminate new horizons and push boundaries ever further.
Backyard Stories, established in 2017 in the backyard of Broadhurst, Gaborone, blossomed into more than just a physical space. It became a haven—a sanctuary for music and community where rising artists are celebrated amidst an atmosphere of inclusivity and well-being. This unique haven distinguishes itself by being sober and smoke-free, fostering an environment where all, regardless of age or musical preference, can come together in mutual respect and shared passion. Picture it as a familial garden where music flourishes organically, free from distractions. Here, the focus is solely on the raw beauty of artistic expression, allowing even the youngest attendees to be captivated by the talent on display.
Music purity is the cornerstone of Backyard Stories, where the essence of artistry and storytelling takes precedence over external influences. It’s a space where musical legends are born, and where shared moments resonate deeply, leaving indelible memories that transcend time.
How does Backyard Stories specifically engage with local emerging talents, and what support structures are in place to propel them into the spotlight?
We are plugged into the community by attending Open mics and listen on Spotify, SoundCloud, Apple Music and to find hidden gems. We handpick promising artists and pair them with established names, amplifying their reach. We don’t stop there we provide each artist with a live band collaborations: Our resident band provides a pro backdrop for vocalists and songwriters to shine. Rehearsals with a twist: We don’t just practice songs, we craft show-stopping moments, collaborating with producers and artists to elevate their performance.
Maintaining a smoke-free environment is unique. How has this choice impacted the audience’s experience and the overall ambiance during performances?
Having an alcohol and smoke free event is greatly appreciated by our audience, and as a matter of fact, it surprisingly acts in favour of the show than against it. It’s one of the reasons why most people even are devoted followers of the show. I believe we’re at a place where young adults especially long for a place where they can enjoy themselves along with good company without the need to intoxicate themselves.
The concept of music purity is intriguing. Can you share examples of how this philosophy has influenced the style and content of the performances at Backyard Stories?
One of the pillars of backup stories is in Harnessing the power of storytelling. We can never underestimate the influence of an individual’s experiences on another human being, and sometimes that human being is a Standard 7 child that anxious about writing their PSLE or a inspired creative who can relate with the stories of the performing artists
Beyond celebrating rising artists, how does Backyard Stories curate a diverse range of musical genres to keep the audience engaged and intrigued?
Musical diversity is in the Backyard Stories DNA. A show without a fusion of some sort is not a show by our books. From the instrumentalist to the artist, the Backyard stories has dabbled in rnb, pop, splash, hip-hop, neo-soul, reggae, kwaito and motswako. We’re constantly testing the limits of various musical disciplines and it probably wont stop anytime soon.
In fostering a family-friendly space, what specific initiatives does Backyard Stories implement to ensure that even the youngest attendees can engage with and appreciate the music?
One of the elements that backup stories has developed is of picnic tables. This is a curated seating arrangement for the entire family that prioritizes comfort and a good viewing of performances with the youngest enjoying the complimentary refreshments.
Can you share instances of artists who have risen to prominence after being featured or supported by Backyard Stories, exemplifying the platform’s impact on local talent?
As an organiser, one of the things I’ve come to acknowledge is that the Backyard stories is a platform that has a lot of ground to cover in terms of growth and improvement. And yet is never ceases to astonish me at the level of impact it has on its artists. We’ve seen it with Stretch when he released yarona FM top charting hit song ‘Senti’ featuring Jasmine Ashley. we’ve seen it with Mandy, Oura, Pablo, Kesego and Deena G. Our hope is that as Backyard Stories we become a platform that grows as it’s impact.
How does Backyard Stories actively involve its audience, turning the space into a collaborative community where everyone contributes to the musical journey?
What the Backyard Stories is dearly trying to do is to create an environment where ideas and experiences could be easily shared. And this is not a one-way conversation but an entire dialogue that even the audience gets to be a part of until the end of the show. The performances are interaction-based both in song and conversation so as to instill a collaborative aspect even with audience
Considering the focus on unforgettable shared moments, are there plans to expand Backyard Stories through virtual experiences or collaborations with other artistic mediums?
Absolutely! Unforgettable shared moments are at the heart of Backyard Stories, and we’re always exploring ways to expand that beyond physical spaces. While we can’t reveal everything just yet, here are some hints: Interactive Livestreams: Beyond basic streaming, we’re looking at interactive elements that let viewers feel part of the show, like live Q&A sessions with artists, virtual mosh pits, and co-created visuals. Cross-Medium Collaborations: Music is just one piece of the story. We’re open to collaborations with other art forms like dance, visual arts, and storytelling to create richer, multi-sensory experiences, even virtually. These are just a few possibilities, and we’re excited to see where technology can take us in sharing unforgettable moments.
In terms of community impact, how does Backyard Stories contribute culturally, educationally, or socially beyond the realm of music celebration?
Music is our core, but Backyard Stories strives for a wider impact: Culturally: We celebrate diverse local artists and their stories, fostering cultural understanding and appreciation. Collaborations like BW ARCHIVES preserve our musical heritage for future generations. Educationally: We plan to partner with schools and community centers to nurture young talent and promoting music education. Socially: We believe music brings people together. We create spaces for diverse communities, and use music as a tool for social good. Beyond these, we’re constantly seeking new ways to contribute. We see Backyard Stories as a platform for connection, creativity, and positive change, using music as a catalyst for a better community.
