2023: Han-C’s year of cheer
The year 2023 was supposedly a period of recovery for the creative sector following two years of stagnation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although there is not much that changed during the year under review as many creatives across the different creative divide continued to find the going tough, it was simply a superb year for singer Han-C, who made 2023 his ‘oyster’. Correspondent LARONA reflects on Han C’s successful moments
IMmegi n the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, 2023 has proven to be a triumphant year for one exceptional artist who has done the most to set himself above the rest. The talented singer has not only captivated audiences with his unique melodies, but he has also garnered an impressive collection of accolades securing seven prestigious awards that validate his artistic prowess.
Born Hanceford Magapatona, Han-C, who is known for his distinctive style and innovative approach to music, has undeniably left an indelible mark in the music fraternity this year. The Mahalapye-born artist scooped a total of seven awards under his name in 2023 during the recently held Botswana Musicians Union Awards (BOMU) and the Yarona FM Music Awards (YAMAs) a few months ago.
On top of the coveted awards that he garnered, Han-C also clinched two international awards nominations. He was nominated for the African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA) under ‘Best Male Artist from Southern Africa’. His second international nomination is from the KORA Awards where he was nominated for Best Male Artist - African Urban Music. The highlight of this year for Han-C will, however, be undoubtedly the acquisition of the seven coveted awards. Han-C won one of the most imperative accolades ranging from Best Male Artist and Song of the Year, which music enthusiasts were so much besotted with. For the YAMA awards, Han C scooped three awards, which include Peoples’ Choice Artist of the Year, Best Male and Best Pop through his song, Sebinki. He further enjoyed the spotlight at the BOMU awards by winning four awards to bring the tally of awards won to seven. Just like for the YAMAs, he also won the Best Male Artist of the Year at the BOMU Awards. This proved that his Best Male Award from the YAMA’s was not a fluke but very much deserved. Other awards won at the BOMU include Best Album of the Year for his album Tears of Joy, Best Afro Pop Award and Best Single of the Year once more for his single, Maloba, in which he featured phenomenal producer DJ KSB.
The Best Single Award is a testament to Han-C’s ability to craft a cohesive and impactful melody. Maloba served as a sonic journey of emotional experiences and listeners of the song resonated well with it.
The song was frequently requested on radio stations. Not only was it frequently requested but it also topped the charts on digital platforms like Spotify where it garnered over 70, 000 streams. The song has also established itself as the anthem of the year, with most people using it as their theme song for their wedding choreography dances locally.
Han-C achieved all this after he parted ways with his long-time manager and went solo. In a brief interview with Arts&Culture, Han-C highlighted it had to be the best thing he has ever done as it did greater good to his musical career. “One thing that inspired me to put in the work was parting ways with my manager. So I was doing a lot of things myself which required me to put in so much towards my craft than I have never done before,” he boldly said. Putting in the work paid dividends to him as not only did he garner seven awards and two international nominations, but he went on to establish his record label, Mantswitswidi Productions, in 2023. The new record label plans to unearth new raw talent that is eagerly waiting for a golden opportunity to break through the ranks. His achievement of opening the label was not the last thing for him, as he still envisioned making great strides in the year 2023. This propelled the talented musician to also follow in the footsteps of decorated Vee Mampeezy, Franco and Charma Gal by hosting his music festival titled Mahalapye Spring Festival. The music festival was held at his home village Mahalapye. As the year draws to a close, Han-C stands as a beacon of creativity and excellence in the local music industry for the year 2023. With seven well-deserved awards under his name, opening a record label and hosting a successful event, no artist comes close to what he has achieved this year. He has not carved his name in the history books but has set the bar high for the future.
MAKHAIZA