When Botswana-born rising star Thuto released her new track “Baloi,” she didn’t just drop a song, she delivered a statement of intent. The track stands as an anthem of resilience, a reclamation of inner strength, and a reflection of the battles young African artists face as they carve out space in a tough industry.

In Setswana, Baloi refers to “witches” or “sorcerers,” a term often surrounded by fear and superstition. Thuto boldly redefines it. To her, Baloi symbolise the haters, doubters, and silent opponents who try to derail ambition but whose negativity can become the very power that propels you forward.

“I reclaimed the word to symbolize haters. The negative criticism people throw at you can actually be your supernatural power to achieve your ambitions,” said Thuto.

The song was forged in adversity. Thuto has weathered storms that could have stopped her, but she chose to rise each time. Baloi reflects her journey, moments of doubt, unexpected obstacles, jealousy, hidden barriers, and the deep resilience found when you refuse to surrender your purpose.

“I was appreciating that I never gave up on myself. Dreams take time. Pray, find your peace, be true to yourself always,” she said.

Created under Vibro Melodic Records with Thomas Chilume and DJ Enton, the track demanded emotional honesty and creative depth. It also anchors her newly released EP of the same name, produced, mixed, and mastered in Gaborone.

Thuto’s musical journey began in 2016. She didn’t start with a victory, her early My Star competition attempt didn’t take her far. But she didn’t let that setback write her story. By 2021, she returned stronger, taking first place in the My African Dream competition. Her sound has since evolved through collaborations with artists across Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, including DJ Chrispin the Drummer, Sal Angel, Motlha, Jungle Yard, and Sdala B, along with the immense influence of her mother, Kearoma Rantao Hamulumbu, widely celebrated as Botswana’s Jazz Queen. She credits legendary Women of Jazz Botswana, Kearoma Rantao, Punah Gabasiane, and Nnunu Ramogotsi, as foundational inspirations.

Navigating the music industry has been both beautiful and brutal. For Thuto, the biggest challenge is integrity.

“People not living up to their word. Loyalty is a serious shortfall in the industry. If you lack loyalty, you won’t last,” she added.

Despite this, Thuto keeps her foundation strong through disciplined work ethic, mental focus, and the unwavering support of her family, whom she calls her backbone.

With her EP now streaming on all platforms and the Baloi music video available on YouTube, Thuto is already moving into her next chapter. She and her team are working on visuals for the entire project and preparing for upcoming opportunities. Though fresh off the release and still lining up shows, her ambition is clear: the next 1–2 years belong to global stages, international recognition, and showcasing Botswana’s talent to the world.

Above all, Thuto wants Baloi to remind listeners of their own power. “Don’t let haters stop you. Those are just the Baloi of this world.” Her message is one of motivation, self-belief, and determination, an invitation for Africa to rise with her.