Twenty-One Years of Spears

They survived lineup changes, industry shifts and changing music habits. Twenty-one years later, Culture Spears are proving that tradition never goes out of style and the reunion fans have long dreamed about may finally be within reach Twenty-one years in music is enough time for trends to disappear, formats to die and audiences to move on. Yet, Culture Spears are still here, still filling dance floors, still flying Botswana’s traditional sound beyond its borders and still giving fans reasons to believe the story isn’t over.

Long before streaming playlists and TikTok snippets, Culture Spears were selling cassettes and DVDs. Their breakthrough came in 2005 withKorone, launching a career packed with timeless anthems includingKulenyane,Khudu,Lorato,KueletsanaandSibi. “Achieving 21 years was not easy.

We were able to achieve a lot of things in a short period of time and we also had our fair share of turbulent times that shaped us into who we are today,” frontman Kabelo Mogwe told Time Out. The group is planning anniversary celebrations this year, hoping to bring together current and former members around Botswana’s Diamond Jubilee festivities or in December if schedules prove difficult. The music business has changed beyond recognition, but Culture Spears have adapted instead of resisting.

[paywall]

“When we started our musical genre was dominating, we sold cassettes and DVDs but today we are now selling our music on online platforms,” Mogwe said. “Music is our bread and butter… The support from other countries including South Africa is overwhelming.” The group has kept its catalogue alive through a steady stream of singles, while a newly released music video forMogatse KBhas breathed fresh life into a song first released during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mogwe credits late Zimbabwean legend Oliver Mtukudzi for the idea.

“He advised that sometimes I should go back to my old music and bring it back to the people. And the advice worked.” For years, fans have dreamed of seeing the original lineup—Kabelo Mogwe, Charma Gal, Thembeni Ramosetheng and Jelina Mokgwatlhe—share one stage again. Mogwe said the original members remain in touch, and while solo careers and other commitments make reunions difficult, he hints the 21st anniversary could deliver something special. “Old members keep checking in and don’t be surprised to see all of us together for the 21st anniversary celebrations.”

[/paywall]