Refiloe Motšoane, better known as Fifi Ngoan’a Mosotho, is not just a performer but a cultural curator.
A rising star within the Southern African entertainment industry, the MMF Entertainment artist is dedicated to bridging the gap between deep Basotho heritage and the vibrant energy of modern African music and film.
The name “Ngoan’a Mosotho” for her is a guiding principle since her artistry is rooted in her homeland.
“I mostly sing about my heritage, so it influences my music in a big way,” she said.
“I draw inspiration from old Sesotho poems and narrations. They were very elaborative, almost romantically built. And because I am young, I blend modern with old inspirations.”
This commitment is evident in her signature sound. A fusion of Amapiano and Afro Traditional Fusion. Fifi sees Amapiano’s “infectious energy” as the perfect vehicle for the “rich culture of Basotho heritage.”
“Rhyming in Sesotho is not easy, but once you find it, it is so inspiring and vibrant. I listen to both genres for inspiration and relevance with both the old and young people. I still go back to the kind of songs we would listen to when I was growing up as a kid.”
Fifi’s versatility as both a vocalist and an actress is a professional advantage she harnesses fully. She notes that the two roles are highly complementary.
“I learned in acting school that it is important to use your voice, which has helped me to carry my voice well when singing,” she says.
Conversely, the high emotional stakes in acting have improved her musical expression: “It has helped me to put myself in songs; I can visualise the story behind the song and express authentically.”
This intense preparation culminates in captivating stage moments. Her most memorable performance was at the recent edition of the Lesotho Music Awards.
“It was the first time I actually started performing with dancers on stage. We had prepared and rehearsed so many times and for a long time. It was very special,” she recalled.
While talent is abundant in Lesotho, she identified systemic challenges that local artists face.
“The one thing that artists from Lesotho have a challenge with is actually breaking through the industry, things like having access to a studio, access to the right management and distribution. And sometimes just doing it… Most people are afraid of starting.”
Her advice is to start small and gradually grow. She draws inspiration from Ntate Stunna for his “consistency and persistence”, and internationally, she looks up to Kamo Mphela, who encouraged her to fuse music and movement.
When discussing her ultimate goals, Fifi’s vision expands beyond her own success.
“My goal is to continue pushing boundaries, blending traditional Basotho elements with modern sounds to create a unique sound that inspires, not just here at home but beyond the borders and the seas. I want my music to be known and remembered for the energy and authenticity. I want to leave a lasting impact like legends such as Tsepo Tshola.”
She understands the power of presentation. Clad in sharp, powerful attire, her visual brand is intentional.
“Fashion and visual presentation are everything to me because I believe style is a very powerful form of art. When you see me even off stage, you have to already have an idea of, ‘Oh! Okay, she’s her.’ They are also key to my brand.”
Summary
- A rising star within the Southern African entertainment industry, the MMF Entertainment artist is dedicated to bridging the gap between deep Basotho heritage and the vibrant energy of modern African music and film.
- I still go back to the kind of songs we would listen to when I was growing up as a kid.
- “The one thing that artists from Lesotho have a challenge with is actually breaking through the industry, things like having access to a studio, access to the right management and distribution.
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