Antidote, a multifaceted musician, composer, and producer, stands out in the vibrant tapestry of Botswana’s music scene. Born in 1999 in Harare, Zimbabwe, and raised in Botswana, he embodies a unique blend of cultural influences that inform his artistic expression. Growing up in a middle-class Christian family, Antidote found himself surrounded by music from a young age, thanks largely to his father’s dedication to gospel music. His father’s ability to play various instruments and his passion for legendary artists, particularly Bob Marley, not only shaped Antidote’s musical preferences but also laid the foundation for his artistic journey.
Antidote’s love for music took a significant turn in 2012 when his father purchased a computer equipped with the Fruity Loops demo. Although he had no prior knowledge of music production, his eagerness to learn propelled him into the world of sound engineering. Over the years, he honed his skills, developing a signature style that blends trap, jazz, rhythm & blues, Afro-pop, Amapiano, and rock. His mission is clear: to create music that resonates deeply and heals the soul. He aims to make each track a soulful experience, using sound as a medium for connection and emotional expression.
Influenced by a diverse range of musical legends, including Bob Marley, Michael Jackson, Notorious B.I.G., Lil Wayne, J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, and Young Thug, Antidote meticulously studies the greats. Each artist teaches him something new, guiding him in his pursuit of excellence. He fell in love with trap music in 2014 and began adapting his sound to the evolving musical landscape. Antidote acknowledges the importance of continuous learning and adaptation, recognizing that the dynamic nature of music parallels the changes in language and culture.
Despite his admiration for Botswana’s music pioneers, Antidote is critical of the current landscape. He believes that many of the earlier artists lacked the international exposure to showcase their true talent. Nonetheless, he holds Dramaboi in high regard, admiring his lyricism and the way he communicates powerful messages through his music. Antidote aspires to carry this torch of impactful storytelling within his own work.
Antidote’s career has already reached impressive milestones. He served as a producer for the American short film Blindfolded Africa! and has seen his music played in international clubs. Collaborations with American stars and other international artists have further solidified his reputation as a creative force. Most notably, he has received invitations from major music labels, including Universal Music Group Canada and Atlantic Records USA. Currently, he is negotiating to secure a deal that he believes will elevate Botswana’s presence on the global music stage.
Collaboration plays a crucial role in Antidote’s creative process. He thrives on the energy of working with fellow artists, believing that face-to-face interactions foster inspiration and authenticity in music. This belief drives him to seek out opportunities for in-person collaboration, allowing for a rich exchange of ideas and creative energy. His commitment to learning extends beyond just music; he is an avid reader and researcher, always seeking to deepen his understanding of the industry and its ever-evolving dynamics.
While Antidote is optimistic about his future, he remains realistic about the challenges facing the local music scene. He expresses concern over the lack of support for artists and the general public’s perception that music cannot be a viable source of income. This skepticism contributes to fewer investors, sponsors, and promoters in the industry. However, Antidote sees this as a call to action, believing that raising awareness about the potential of music as an economic driver can help change the narrative.
Fans can look forward to more exciting international collaborations from Antidote with artists from the USA, Canada, the UK, Nigeria, and South Africa. His recent debut mixtape, Motlanta Tapes, released on September 30, showcases a blend of indigenous languages, including Setswana, Shona, and Ndebele slang. The project features contributions from artists he grew up with, such as Greneel Worldwide, Drippy Kin, Taeylormadeit, Bigraww, Tobacco, and Fliq Quan from South Africa. On October 9, which coincided with his birthday, he released a Deluxe Edition of the mixtape, further expanding the project with additional tracks and international instrumentals.
Antidote firmly believes in the potential of his generation to elevate Botswana’s music to new heights. He emphasizes the importance of passion and persistence in pursuing one’s dreams. His message to aspiring artists is both motivational and heartfelt: “Never give up on what you love. What you are passionate about truly defines you. If you work towards it, the journey may be hard and stormy, but it will lead to a land of milk and honey.”
In an industry that demands resilience and creativity, Antidote is a testament to the power of dedication and artistic vision. As he continues to forge his path, he remains committed to uplifting others and ensuring that Botswana’s music finds its rightful place on the global stage.