Maseru, Lesotho – On a bright afternoon, a white minibus taxi filled with 22 passengers departed from a bustling bus terminal in Johannesburg, making its way to Lesotho, the landlocked kingdom nestled within South Africa’s borders. Shortly after hitting the highway, the driver activated the radio, instantly filling the vehicle with the melodic sounds of a solo accordion, heralding the start of a popular Famo song.
“I could listen to this music all day,” remarked a young man dressed in stylish blue workman overalls, a fashion statement that resonated with many passengers, primarily Lesotho nationals, who joyfully sang along as the uplifting beat progressed.
Famo, a vibrant musical genre that interweaves traditional Southern African sounds with Western instruments, originated approximately a century ago among migrant mining populations in South Africa. Characterized by its distinct use of the accordion and guitar, Famo has become a cherished cultural staple among the Basotho people, symbolizing resilience and communal identity.
However, in recent years, an unfortunate association with violence has overshadowed the rich heritage of Famo music. Intensifying rivalries among some fans and artists have led to severe gang-related conflicts within Lesotho, prompting governmental interventions, including a ban on specific Famo groups labeled as “terrorist” organizations. This ban, enacted in May, has significantly affected loyal fans who can no longer attend live shows featuring their favorite artists, leading to increased frustration and longing for the music that represents their culture.
Despite this troubling trend, many artists remain committed to the original intent of Famo music as a form of storytelling and cultural preservation. Prominent Famo musician Mantsali Julia Hantsi, also known as Thope Tse Khang, emphasizes that the genre primarily served as a medium for celebrating life and history before it became entwined with violence. “Famo music was a way for people to express themselves, celebrate, and tell stories,” she noted, reinforcing the need to focus on the genre’s positive elements.
The origins of Famo date back to the townships of Johannesburg in the 1920s, particularly among Basotho migrant laborers who sought economic opportunities. Over time, this vibrant music style migrated to Lesotho, becoming a crucial element of local cultural expression.
While the recent violence associated with Famo gangs has resulted in tragedy, many individuals continue to advocate for a return to the genre’s roots. As Hantsi aptly stated, “Famo music itself is not the problem; it’s how certain individuals have used it to push harmful agendas.”
With a commitment to preserving the cultural essence of Famo, artists like Hantsi are blending the genre with contemporary styles such as hip-hop to reach wider audiences while maintaining the core values of storytelling and community solidarity that Famo embodies.
Despite the challenges, Famo music remains a significant cultural landmark in Lesotho, embodying the spirit of the Basotho people and their rich narrative traditions. The resilience of musicians dedicated to reviving its storied legacy persists, underscoring the belief that music can indeed heal and unite.
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