This morning I had the pleasure of joining Music Fridays on the OW Breakfast Show on VOW FM 88.1, hosted by Greg and Sameea. It was a warm, relaxed conversation, and I was delighted to have the opportunity to share my journey, my music and the stories behind it.
The interview began with a simple question:
“Nnunu, tell us about yourself.”
I smiled because that is always a bigger question than it sounds.
I explained that I am an Afro-Jazz vocalist and cultural storyteller from Botswana. My music is rooted in our traditions, our people and our experiences. For me, every song is more than a melody; it is a story, a memory and a celebration of who we are.
“What inspires the songs that you write and perform?”
My answer was easy because the inspiration is all around me.
I spoke about growing up surrounded by rich cultural traditions and listening to the stories of elders. Those stories have stayed with me throughout my life. They find their way into my music because I believe our heritage deserves to be preserved, celebrated and passed on to future generations.
“Why is storytelling so important in your music?”
I explained that music has always been one of the ways African communities have documented their journeys, their joys and their challenges. Storytelling allows us to connect with one another. It allows listeners to see themselves in a song and to discover something meaningful in the experience.
“What are you currently working on?”
I shared my excitement about continuing to promote my music to wider audiences, building connections across borders and introducing more people to the unique sounds of Botswana Afro-Jazz. Every performance and every interview is part of a larger journey that I hope will take our stories to new audiences around the world.
Towards the end of the interview, Greg asked me:
“What would you like people to remember about Nnunu Ramogotsi?”
I answered from the heart.
I said that I hope people remember me as someone who uses music to celebrate culture, inspire connection and tell authentic African stories. Music has given me a voice, and I want to use that voice to uplift, preserve and share the beauty of our heritage.
Then came my favourite moment of the morning.
As the interview wrapped up, Greg announced that they would close the segment by playing Sephonono. Suddenly the studio was filled with music. Greg, Sameea and I could not help ourselves—we were all moving to the rhythm, smiling and dancing as the song filled the room.
When the track finished, Greg laughed and declared, “I feel so happy!”
To hear those words was incredibly special. As musicians, we hope our songs connect with people, but there is no greater reward than seeing that connection happen right in front of you. In that moment, there were no interviews, no introductions and no formalities—just music doing what music does best: bringing people together and lifting spirits.
I left the studio with a full heart.
My sincere thanks to Greg, Sameea and the entire VOW FM family for their generosity, energy and enthusiasm. Thank you also to every listener who joined us on the journey this morning.
And if Sephonono left you dancing or feeling a little happier, then my work as an artist has been worthwhile.
With love and music,
Nnunu Ramogotsi
Afro-Jazz Vocalist & Cultural Storyteller 🎶✨
