Trouble continues to mount at Metšoaka Nersan Records, as artists Litšepe LR and Qhomane have officially confirmed their departure from the label.
The duo were part of the high-profile lineup of seven artists unveiled at the label’s official launch earlier this year, a launch that promised to usher in a bold new era for Lesotho’s music industry.
The initial roster included Sannere, Phoka Ea Boroa, Flash Cortez, Teddy DJ, Ali DJ, Litšepe LR, and Qhomane.
However, just months after its formation, the label has been rocked by high-profile exits, behind-the-scenes drama, and public statements that paint a picture of a company struggling to keep its internal dynamics in check.
The first red flag appeared shortly after the label’s launch when rapper Flash Cortez abruptly announced his departure. Though he refrained from detailing his reasons, sources and social media posts at the time pointed to a falling out between Cortez and the label’s founder.
The tension was public enough to spark discussions across platforms, with fans and industry insiders expressing concern over the label’s leadership and direction.
Now, Litšepe LR, who had been described as Sannere’s protégé, has become the latest artist to sever ties with the label. In recent months, their once-tight relationship had visibly cooled. Observers began noticing their absence from each other’s social media content and public events, leading to speculation that the partnership had soured.
Sources close to the situation have now confirmed that a physical altercation took place between the two artists in May, ultimately leading Litšepe to make the decision to walk away from Metšoaka Nersan Records.
“There was a fight that broke out between Sannere and Litšepe. As a result, the two brothers failed to reconcile, and that led to Litšepe leaving the label,” a source told this publication.
When contacted for comment, Sannere acknowledged the departure but declined to provide specifics.
“Yes, it is true. I am aware of his departure and have known for a while, but I am not at liberty to get deep into the details of the matter,” he said.
As for Qhomane, while he was never formally signed to the label, he had been operating as part of the team during the label’s early activities. According to insiders, plans to make his contract official were in motion but ultimately fell through, again, reportedly due to disagreements with Sannere.
Sannere downplayed Qhomane’s involvement.
“Qhomane was never signed by Metšoaka Nersan Records. He was only a friend of the label as far as I know,” he said.
Contrary to this, Moeketsi Pius Kebise, the former label manager who is now managing both Litšepe and Qhomane, offered a different perspective.
“I can confirm that Litšepe is now under my management, and so is Qhomane. I cannot go into details of why Litšepe left Metšoaka, but I can clarify that Qhomane was in the process of being signed. We bought him equipment and supported him with resources because we were planning to bring him on officially,” Kebise explained.
Kebise himself left the label just a month after its launch, citing irreconcilable differences with the founder of Metšoaka Nersan.
“After an incredible journey with Metšoaka Group, I am stepping into a new chapter of my life, embracing fresh opportunities and new challenges,” read part of Kebise’s departure statement.
“When you do not see eye to eye with the founder of the company, the best thing to do is leave. And I felt it was the right thing to do,” he told Newsday in an earlier interview.
Adding to the instability, in June, Sannere’s long-time manager Teho Matheleli of Teho Visuals, also stepped down. In a heartfelt public statement, Matheleli expressed disillusionment with how the label had evolved.
“What started as a collective dream, built on trust, sacrifice and a shared vision, slowly began to unravel as success came into the picture,” Teho’s statement read.
“I poured my heart, resources and creativity into building and elevating the Metšoaka Nersan brand. But, over time, I saw a shift in values that left me sidelined.”
These departures, especially of key personnel and artists, are raising broader concerns about the direction and leadership of Metšoaka Nersan Records. Once viewed as a promising platform for emerging talent in Lesotho, the label now faces mounting questions about its future.
As of now, only a few artists from the original lineup remain under the Metšoaka Nersan banner. Whether the label can stabilise and rebuild its reputation or continue to fracture remains to be seen.
In the meantime, Litšepe LR and Qhomane are looking ahead under new management, signalling that their careers are far from over despite the setbacks. With the guidance of Kebise, they may yet find the creative freedom and stability they sought at Metšoaka but never found.
Summary
- The duo were part of the high-profile lineup of seven artists unveiled at the label’s official launch earlier this year, a launch that promised to usher in a bold new era for Lesotho’s music industry.
- Sources close to the situation have now confirmed that a physical altercation took place between the two artists in May, ultimately leading Litšepe to make the decision to walk away from Metšoaka Nersan Records.
- I am aware of his departure and have known for a while, but I am not at liberty to get deep into the details of the matter,” he said.
A Professional Communications practitioner with a wealth of expertise in marketing, public speaking, communication and media relations. I believe in learning everyday and improving one’s personal and professional capabilities.
* A former journalist and radio host who is passionate about media and it’s impact on society.
