When details of Allegro Africa In Concert were first unveiled in April, music lovers were introduced to an ambitious concept that promised to redefine the live entertainment experience in Lesotho.
The production was billed as something unlike anything local audiences had seen before — a carefully curated fusion of DJ culture, live instrumentation, vocal performances, and immersive audience engagement. At the centre of it all was Nthethe Sekoli, better known as Allegro Africa, who envisioned a concert experience that would go far beyond a traditional DJ set.
Now, with just under four weeks to go before the June 27 show at the ‘Manthabiseng Convention Centre, the full story behind the concert is beginning to emerge. What many may see as a bold new idea is actually the culmination of years of artistic growth, experience, and a dream that refused to fade.
For Allegro, the seeds of this project were planted long before the announcement.
“The concept of performing with a band has been in my head since my days with Zagro Deejays,” he explains. “The idea kept coming back to me and I eventually realised I needed to align it with the current direction of my brand.”
Turning that vision into reality required both belief and the right collaboration. That breakthrough came through conversations with veteran creative and event organiser Rethabile Hlalele, popularly known as Zipompe.
After sharing the concept with her, Allegro found someone who not only understood the vision but expanded it.
“She upgraded the idea by suggesting that we include a string quartet and then offered to take charge of organising the entire show,” he recalls. “She broke the concept down and showed me how possible it was.”
The encouragement came at a crucial time. “One of the things she told me was that if I didn’t believe in myself, I should trust in God,” he says. “That became part of the direction of this journey. God bless the vibe.”
The resulting production blends musical disciplines that have shaped Allegro’s journey over the years. While audiences mainly know him as a DJ and music curator, his roots run much deeper.
“I have been DJing for many years and producing music throughout my career,” he says. “Before that, I played drums for about 15 years, and during that time I worked extensively with live bands.”
His experience performing with jazz artist Mookho Moqhali’s band further deepened his understanding of live performance and musical collaboration.
However, one element of the production has pushed him into completely new territory.
“The strings have been the biggest learning curve,” he admits. “This is the first time in my life working with a string ensemble. Arranging and coordinating that aspect has been challenging, but it has also been one of the most exciting parts of the journey.”
Despite the challenges, the rewards have been significant. “Watching everything come together and hearing how beautifully all the different elements complement one another has been incredible.”
Beyond the rehearsals and technical preparations, Allegro sees the concert as a major milestone in the growth of his brand. He acknowledges that entrepreneurship in the creative industry often demands patience and a willingness to prioritise long-term value over immediate profit.
“The journey of an entrepreneur involves delivering beautiful solutions to the market, sometimes at zero profit or even at a loss,” he explains. “Not because the business model is wrong, but because the business is still growing.”
His main focus has been building a strong brand and creating memorable experiences. “So far, I am happy with the way people have received my music and the experiences we have created. As an artist and creative, it will always be my responsibility to produce art and create vibes.”
Importantly, Allegro hopes the concert will inspire broader innovation within Lesotho’s entertainment industry. He believes local artists, promoters, and producers must be willing to take risks if the sector is to reach its full potential.
“I hope this concept sparks a light or ignites a fire in the souls of everyone involved in the music industry,” he says. “Sometimes the direction you want to take is exactly what the industry needs, but you hesitate because you think it won’t work. We need to move beyond the ordinary if we want this industry to become extraordinary.”
For Allegro, the ambition is both artistic and economic. He wants to see a music industry that creates sustainable opportunities and supports future generations of creatives.
“We are making history here,” he says. “Not for Allegro Africa alone, but for Lesotho. Let the world hear us. Let them see us. Let us experience high standards in our own country.”
“People must come and witness musicians coming together to create an extraordinary experience,” he adds. “And besides, this might be the first and only Allegro Africa In Concert. Who knows?”
Summary
- “The idea kept coming back to me and I eventually realised I needed to align it with the current direction of my brand.
- “One of the things she told me was that if I didn’t believe in myself, I should trust in God,” he says.
- “The journey of an entrepreneur involves delivering beautiful solutions to the market, sometimes at zero profit or even at a loss,” he explains.
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.
