Three-time Namibia Annual Music Awards (NAMAs) nominated Afro-pop trio Tight Kassie Brothers (TKB) have come a long way on their musical journey, courtesy of a string of hits over the years.
The Rundu trio comprising of Sai, Karasa and Bonse all possess singing and dancing capabilities. They recently announced that they are cooking up their fifth studio album and were more than happy to let The Weekender in on their new venture.
When you are from a town that is popularly known for its beach, beautiful lodges and, sadly, how frequently the water supply is cut off, it’s understandable that your attempt at success may be a little overshadowed.
When someone mentions Rundu, one can’t help it but think of its debt-ridden town council or your imagination wanders off to a warm, tranquil utopia. The last thing you think of is music and when you do, it involves an overzealous The Dogg fan, Kaisosi’s famous Kahili. While that has never been a problem, it has sold Rundu’s musical community short of its awesome surge of artists who do not enjoy mainstream success nationally.
Often artists there are advised to move to Windhoek to make it.
However, thanks to TKB’s musical success over the last few years, that perception is slowly changing.
Narrating their journey, the trio shared that the group was formed back when they were still in high school. It consisted of more than 10 members and their duty was to dance at talent shows and as back-up dancers for local artists Makurunganga, Bsquare and Thommy.
“Spending a lot of time in studio and witnessing the artists we used to dance for making music made us realise that we were not just gifted dancers. It was then that we took our shot at making music and never looked back,” said Karasa.
Back then, they had to seek financial assistance from family members because they couldn’t meet the financial burdens that came along with being musicians such as transport, studio bookings and clothes.
“Because of our talent and love for music, it didn’t take long before we started getting recognised. Basement Records noticed our potential and offered us a deal, which we gratefully accepted. Basement Records was a big move for our career,” said Bonse.
They released three albums which spawned hits such as ‘Breakthrough’, ‘My Tura Love’ and ‘Kawe’.
Basement Records’ video production company shot all their music videos during the trio’s tenure at the label. TKB believes that music videos particularly play a big role in creating exposure for artists.
Due to differences with the label, they parted ways with Basement Records in 2016, which led to the birth of their own record label, Chobe Entertainment, and a period of managing their own careers until recently when they signed a management agreement with Tamwa Artist Management.
“These guys make great music, that is why we have to take away the burden of them having to juggle managing their affairs and just let them do what they know best – making music,” said their new manager, Justus Tetu.
The trio recently released a single, ‘My Ka Recharge’, from their forthcoming album. “We still haven’t named our new album but in the meantime, you can stream our single on YouTube so you have an idea what to expect,” said Sai.
The group admits to having their differences when making music as ideas come from three different minds.
“Piecing our ideas together to make one song is hard sometimes because we all want what we want.
“Regardless of those differences, we always find a way to agree and make great music together as a team,” said Sai.
Many groups in Namibia have split for different reasons. When asked what will keep them together, Bonse’s quick response was: “We are cousins and you don’t split from family, but if such is ever to happen, we will still look out for each other.”
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
