Leroy Nyoni is a multi-talented artist whose ability to curate exceptional musical experiences sets him apart. As the founder of the crossover jazz band WDP, he continues to redefine Botswanaโs music landscape with groundbreaking rearrangements of contemporary songs, seamlessly blending jazz with elements of the countryโs rich musical heritage. Through their dynamic performances and bespoke concerts, WDP is dedicated to bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, creating unforgettable experiences for their audiences.
Botswana has a vibrant history of musical outfits that have made their mark at various levels. Some, like rock band Skinflint and folk-jazz stars Sereetsi & the Natives, have flown the flag internationally, while others have become household names locally. WDP pays homage to all these contributors to Botswanaโs sonic landscape. Their debut album,ย The Bechuanaland Sessions: Phase 1, is a testament to this, featuring instrumental renditions of local hits such as Samantha Mogweโs โTransitionโ and Dramaboiโs โSala le nna.โ During live performances, audiences are treated to additional songs that didnโt make the album, further showcasing the bandโs versatility and depth.
The melodic brilliance of WDP is driven by Thero Selekaโs masterful guitar work, complemented by Michael Mokgatitswane on bass and Tebogo Gaetseweโs powerful vocals. Nyoni, the bandโs founder, doubles as conductor and drummer, while Maleho Makgothi works his magic as the sound engineer, transforming even the most intimate spaces into majestic concert halls. This ensemble delivered sold-out shows at Molapo Crossing in early February, weaving together renditions of Mpho Sebinaโs โLoves Light,โ MMP Familyโs โTlala ka lepantsula,โ and Staggaโs โIt gets crazy.โ The performances were further elevated by spontaneous collaborations with artists they cover, such as YAMA winner KX Legit.
As the flagship artist group of All Things Musicalโan audio and entertainment agency specialising in event curation and holistic audio solutionsโWDP embodies the companyโs commitment to artistic excellence. Nyoni, who serves as the Executive and Artistic Director, has played a pivotal role in Botswanaโs evolving creative sector. Since 2016, All Things Musical has successfully executed over 40 live music events, contributing to the countryโs growing cultural footprint. While this is just a drop in the ocean, it is a significant step toward putting Botswana on the regional map.
According to PwCโsย Africa Entertainment and Media Outlook 2024โ2028ย report, Botswanaโs neighbor, South Africa, is part of the continentโs leading trio of markets showing resilience amid global macroeconomic instability. These markets are projected to see revenue growth ahead of the global average, with a compound annual growth rate of 3.9 percent through 2028. While Botswanaโs local market may be slower to grow, WDPโs approach of celebrating and elevating Botswanaโs music positions them as potential ambassadors for the countryโs creative sector.
Nyoni believes that WDPโs success can serve as proof of concept to encourage diversified support for the arts. โInvestment from private entities can have a significant ripple effect across the creative value chain,โ he says. โFrom music production and live performance to digital distribution and talent management, financial backing from corporations and private investors can help creatives professionalise their work, scale their businesses, and reach wider markets.โ
A thriving creative sector contributes to job creation, tourism, and national branding efforts, and WDP is at the forefront of this movement. With the local music scene growing steadilyโevidenced by radio personalities like Mdu Tha Party hosting multi-hour shows featuring exclusively local musiciansโitโs only a matter of time before the WDP model inspires similar initiatives. However, even if mimicked, Nyoniโs unique influence and vision cannot be replicated.
Looking ahead, Nyoni promises that 2025 will be an eventful year for WDP, teasing the release of a long-awaited second album. As they continue to deliver world-class entertainment, WDP solidifies its reputation as one of Botswanaโs most sought-after live acts, one unforgettable gig at a time.
The road ahead
Nyoniโs vision extends beyond the bandโs immediate success. He envisions a future where Botswanaโs creative industry is recognised globally, with WDP leading the charge. โWe want to create a legacy that inspires the next generation of musicians and creatives,โ he says. โOur goal is to show that Botswana has a unique sound and story worth sharing with the world.โ
With plans for more collaborations, international tours, and innovative projects, WDP is poised to take Botswanaโs music to new heights. Their dedication to excellence, combined with their passion for showcasing local talent, ensures that their journey is only just beginning.
As Nyoni aptly puts it, โThereโs no gig like a WDP shindig.โ And with each performance, they continue to prove why.
