Khalee G (born Tlotlego Mothibe) and Saint Cielo ( born Kutloano Kopano Lebeta ) are the duo that just keeps on giving. They call themselves “Pitori’s Biggest Kept Secrets,” and rightfully so. As recording artists and producers, their artistry is nothing short of mesmerizing. They are indeed hidden gems shimmering beneath the surface, waiting to be unraveled.
In 2024, the Pretorian duo blessed us with their collaborative tape, “Sunset Drives”, a project that feels like watching the sky melt into warm hues after a long day: calm, serene, tranquil. It’s the kind of music that begs to be played during a slow drive with the windows down, hand-in-hand with a lover, watching the world slip into twilight.
On Sunday, 2nd of February 2025, they released their first single for the year titled “Martha’s Prayer”. “Martha’s Prayer”, is a soulful earworm that sees the Pretorian artists tightly grip the mic, delivering rich vocals over a minimalized yet smooth production. The cascading piano chords imbue the production with a soulful reverence, evoking the sacred ambiance of a church: an atmosphere perfectly suited to a song titled “Martha’s Prayer”. Khalee G and Saint Cielo have masterfully crafted a sonic journey, purposefully immersing us in a heartfelt homage to faith and reverence. There’s a certain level of spirituality that comes with this song. It’s a song about the power of prayer even in the face of failure and adversity.
The song in its essence unfolds like a late night prayer whispered into the void: raw and deeply personal. Khalee G and Saint Cielo use their words to paint a haunting portrait of struggle, faith, and the relentless pursuit of a better life. “Martha’s Prayer” is a song that serves as a reminder to get on our knees and “pray a little more” even when our worlds crumble. The cherry on top? It’s delivered in hauntingly smooth vocals that are soul stirring. The end result? A powerful and introspective piece that reignites a feeling of hope and a survivor’s mindset.
At exactly 1 minute and 20 seconds, the song reaches its emotional peak with an excerpt that tugs at the heartstrings: a mother’s voice, urging her children to pray. “Ngwanaka, tsepa thapelo, orapele. Modimo ke yena o tsiba nnete ka bophelo.” (“My child, trust in prayer, pray. God is the only one who truly knows the truth about life.”) Her words carry the weight of generations and depict a mother’s love in the purest way. And just like that, the song seamlessly shifts from prayer to ambition, proving that divine intervention and self-determination walk hand in hand: “Lenna ke nyaka go te pona ka Beemer.” (“I, too, want to make it and drive a Beemer.”)
I’ve never felt more regretful about not fully understanding Spitori. But here’s what I do know: even through the language barrier, “Martha’s Prayer” spoke to me. It wrapped itself around me like a warm embrace from heaven, whispering reassurances into my soul, letting me know that everything somehow, some way will work out. It breathed life into my weary spirit, and I have no doubt that it will do the same for anyone who listens.
Listen to “Martha’s Prayer” here: https://song.link/Marthasprayer
