Chokeslem
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| "Chokeslem" | |
|---|---|
| Single by Kharishma featuring Ba Bethe Gashoazen | |
| Released | May 24, 2024 |
| Genre | |
| Length | 3:42 |
| Songwriter(s) | |
"Chokeslem"[1] is a single[2] by South African artists Kharishma and Ba Bethe Gashoazen, released on May 24, 2024. The track blends traditional Limpopo sounds with modern Afrobeat influences and has been widely praised for its cultural significance. It was awarded Song of the Year by both Thobela FM and Capricorn FM in 2024.
Background and release
[edit]"Chokeslem" was written and recorded by Kharishma[3] (born Melita Mogale) and Ba Bethe Gashoazen, two prominent figures in the Limpopo music scene. The song was released digitally across major platforms such as Apple Music, Spotify, and YouTube on May 24, 2024. The song blends Afrobeat and traditional South African sounds, and it was produced to reflect the emerging Lekompo genre—a fusion of Afrobeat and local Limpopo influences.
Composition
[edit]The song features Afrobeat-inspired rhythms, layered percussion, and melodic, emotionally-driven vocals. Lyrically, "Chokeslem" addresses themes of resilience, empowerment, and the everyday struggles faced by South African youth. Its upbeat tempo and catchy melody helped the song resonate widely across different audiences, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where it went viral with several dance challenges.
Reception
[edit]"Chokeslem" quickly gained popularity, particularly within the South African music industry. It received extensive airplay on Thobela FM and Capricorn FM, two of Limpopo's leading radio stations, and won the Song of the Year award from both stations in 2024. The song also made a significant impact on streaming platforms, including reaching high chart positions on Apple Music, Spotify, and iTunes.
The song's success marked a significant milestone in the rise of Lekompo music, with critics and fans noting its ability to blend contemporary Afrobeat styles with traditional South African sounds. "Chokeslem" also became a viral hit on social media, where it inspired numerous dance videos and content.
Chart performance
[edit]"Chokeslem" charted on several South African music platforms, achieving the following positions:
- 7 on Apple Music
- 4 on iTunes
- 9 on YouTube Trending
- 60 on the iTunes Global Chart
Music video
[edit]The official music video for "Chokeslem" was released shortly after the song's debut and quickly gained traction on YouTube. Directed by a prominent South African filmmaker, the video features a vibrant, energetic portrayal of both traditional and modern South African culture, with choreography that reflects the song's energetic and empowering message.
Awards and recognition
[edit]In addition to being named Song of the Year by Thobela FM and Capricorn FM, "Chokeslem" also received significant acclaim for its cultural impact, especially within the Lekompo genre. It further solidified both Kharishma and Ba Bethe Gashoazen's positions as key players in the South African music industry.
Legacy
[edit]"Chokeslem" is viewed as a breakthrough song in the evolution of Lekompo music, influencing the broader Afrobeat music in South Africa and beyond. Its success helped bring the genre into the spotlight, and it remains a defining track for both Kharishma and Ba Bethe Gashoazen's careers.
References
[edit]- ^ Mzandisi, Iviwe. "The infectious songs that got South Africans vibing into 2025". news24.com.
- ^ Moroeng, Moroba (1 January 2025). "Songs of the Year Across the Country, Mzansi Weighs In: 'Biri Marung Should Have Been Number 1'". briefly.co.za.
- ^ Mazibuko, Thobile. "Watch out amapiano, Lekompo is set to be the next big thing in South African music". IOL.