Sereetsi & The Natives has released a massive hit that has radio, television and social media abuzz entitled Petere. The song was released on August 10th 2022 with a music video to accompany the folk jazz classic. Tomeletso Sereetsi composed the music and the lyrics, played four string guitar and programmed the piano. He is also the lead vocalist and a co-producer on the tune.
The other producers are his go-to producer Swedish-born Mikael Rosen, Motlotlegi Koboto and Jonathan Jay Chords Mokotedi. Rosen, who also mixed and mastered the song, has been working with Sereetsi since 2014. Ace guitarist Gomotsegang G Rapoo is on electric and acoustic guitars while Dylan Lebekwe is on drums and percussions.
Motlotlegi Koboto is on keys and background vocals while bass duties are ably handled by Lereko Almond Lesole. Charlie Tshidiso Nthimole is on alto saxophone with Jonathan Jay Chords Mokotedi doubling on background vocals. The song is published by In The Loop and was recorded at Lab In The Loop.
“This is my best work so far. This roster of musicians brought their A game to the mix. As a gesture of gratitude to the natives who have been very supportive over the years, I will be sharing this song for free. Natives can download it from my website, www.sereetsiandthenatives.com,” says Sereetsi. “We will be releasing more singles in the next coming months so stay tuned”.
Petere takes a look at the social phenomenon that has taken root lately where a man would betray his cohabitation partner by secretly marrying another woman. The song has sparked heated conversation on social media. “It has hit a nerve. I love to write about everyday issues that speak to our people,” says Sereetsi.
The song is already being hailed as a classic and a masterpiece. The music video features talented Facebook comedian Xolo Black and his usual cast. “We are thankful that they truly brought the story to life,” he says.
Just to sample some of the rave reviews on social media, Professor Thapelo Otlogetswe posted; “Sereetsi & the natives has released the much awaited Petere. The song drips with unimaginable melancholy as it traces sordid tales of multiple concurrent partners, deception and betrayal. Wailing saxophone riffs, thundering clicks of the Khoisan and the shuffling feet of the Kwena dancers come together in perfect harmony to undress and dissect the septic intimate relations. The song is mature and earthy. The video production deserves much commendation.
Tomeletso Sereetsi succeeds again as a social critic who exploits contemporary lingo. Indeed “re tshela ka go makala beke le beke”!”
