The queen of Ma/gaisa is back with another NAMA nomination

THE 35-year-old Lettie Nangolo, often referred to as the queen of Ma/gaisa, won the award in the best Damara Punch category at the 2013 Namibian Music Awards (NAMAs). This year she is once again nominated in the same category, for the track ‘Ham-e a /Homkhoe’ (Who is the owner).

Who is Lettie?

Lettie was born in Khorixas and grew up there. I started school at Eddie Bowe Primary School and Martin Luther High School. I grew up with eight other siblings and I am the second last born.

How do you feel about being nominated for a NAMA again?

I am very excited and appreciate it as I am part of the very lucky few who are nominated in the best Damara Punch category. It’s not an easy category as dozens of the best applied too.

What is ‘Ham-e a /Honkhoe’ all about?

The song is all about me being the owner of our music genre and being the crowned queen of Ma/gaisa music. The song is also about music being a God-given talent.

Tell me about your musical journey.

I was a back-up singer for artists at the well-known music label, Desert Tunes, which is owned by Patrick Thaniseb. However the musical bug bit me while at primary school already.

What message do you have for Namibians during the Covid-19 lockdown?

Please adhere to government measures, let’s wash our hands and maintain social distancing. Covid-19 kills so let’s not take it lightly.

To my fellow artists, let’s unite and take Ma/gaisa (Damara Punch) forward. Let us not badmouth each other but rather help build each other. Work hard and never lose hope as music can take you places and better your life.

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