LETLHAKANE - Some may remember him as the music guru who gave the likes of Tshepo Dikomang and Kabo Matlho tough time in their days at the Pop Star Idols competition.

Although he only made it to the top three, Smarh is a living legend, who added a lot of value to the then newly started Pop Star 2007 through his sense of creative musical rendition.

Smarh, whose real name is Gibson Matlakala, has just released a 12 track Afro pop debut album titled Smarh, featuring some amazing gems.

The album is a perfect gift for Afro pop fans and a crowd puller. Smarh, 28, demonstrates his passion for music through his breathtaking, outstanding, heartening songs which are jam-packed.

The album was recorded and mixed at Playhouse Studios in South Africa and its executive producer was Peace a.k.a DJ Blongy Katse. Smarh was its producer.

Most of his songs are reflective of his musical prowess and dedicated to women most importantly his loving mother.

These include songs such as Nnana wame, So close, Dali wame, and Ntombazana, and Ndobolo all of which are rich in humour.

His songs infuse an aura of Afro pop, Afro jazz and Afro house which leads his fans to eternally celebrating as it so handsomely meets their taste.

Born and raised in Orapa, Smarh who could only afford studies at a junior certificate level, was quick to urge the youth should study hard and complete their studies in order to enjoy a decent life. He says that for him it is through the Grace of God that he can earn a living through music, which is his only source of income.

Smarh nurtured his talent while playing a keyboard at a tender age of nine and performing at Debswana corporate occasions in Orapa during his teen years.

His desire and passion derive from the influence gained from the fabulous music video tapes and watching the likes of South Africas illustrious artists, Pet Shange, Peter Teanet, Paul Ndlovu, PJ Powers and Brenda Fassie in their performing antics. BOPA