THE remains of the legendary music icon, Tsepo Tshola, were laid to rest on Friday 30 July at Thaba Bosiu Heroes Acre in Lesotho.
Speaking at Tshola’s official funeral service, King Letsie III said: “It is indeed a privilege for the country of Lesotho and the family of Tshola to have someone who worked hard to be known and regarded as a person for all because of his music. Basotho should take pride in having such a legend in music who blessed and entertained the whole world.”
The king pleaded with other artists to take after Tshola and work even harder than he did.
The Prime Minister of Lesotho, Dr Moeketsi Majoro, said Tshola had a very nice voice with which he sang in many places across the world. He said he also prayed through his music.
Majoro said Tshola competed with many musicians but he was always the best, which earned him the Lesotho Ramatšeane Award and many others.
“We will forever remember him through his good music,” he said.
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Passing her condolences on behalf of the South African government, Free State MEC of Sports, Arts and Culture Limakatso Mahasa said she knew Tshola not only as a musician but she was also as one of his daughters because she knew him on a personal level.
“Tsepo Tshola sang songs that touched many lives particularly during apartheid. He sang songs of encouragement and songs that promoted peace. He also told me he is working on a project where he’d like to produce a musical hit aimed at addressing issues on Covid-19,” said Mahasa.
Therefore, she pleaded with any musician to sing it to make sure Tshola’s family receives the royalties.
Liteboho Tshola, the legend’s younger brother, said his passing had not only affected their family but also Lesotho, South Africa as well as the African continent.
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He said Tshola died on his seventh day of his illness due to Covid-19. However, he also had other chronic diseases.
“Tsepo Tshola touched so many souls through his music because some listened to him because he was able to tell a story, heal, and comfort people. Around Tsepo you would not feel anything other than love,” he said.
The musical icon was born in Berea district of western Lesotho on 18 August 1953 and started his music career in the early 1970s. He worked with Blue Diamonds Band, Uhuru and Sankomota before going solo. He’s survived by his three children and three grandchildren.
