Do you think your music is more popular than you?
It is better that way, because if people get to know you for the music you do, it becomes much easier to communicate to them. It’s much easier to send your message because they know ‘she has something new, let’s listen’. So, it’s strictly about music.
Are there any music collaborations in the pipeline?
I don’t have one yet, but my management and I are looking for that.
So, tell us; what does Quinamino mean?
When I am writing music, I am much of a spiritual person. Quinamino means the feelings you have for someone; when you love someone so much and you always want to be around that person all the time.
Am I right to classify you as a dancehall/raga artiste?
I am not that artiste that fits in a specific genre of music. I love trying different styles, but you know the market is changing; not only in Uganda but worldwide. You have to move with the trend and know what people love; so, we try to bring out the sound that everyone will love. At some point I will do all kinds of music from reggae to RnB.
You are a songwriter; which artistes have you written songs for?
I have written songs for Vinka. I have also written for Lydia Jazmine, Eddy Kenzo and also I have one song with Nina Roz. I have been a growing writer because I have not been doing music in the industry.
You have done music in Luganda and English, how many languages can you fluently speak?
I only speak Luganda and English.
Tell me about yourself, Azawi.
My real name is Zawedde Priscilla, a quiet but friendly and emotional person. I think that is how best I can describe myself. I went to Buganda Road primary school, Lubiri secondary school, St Janani Luwum secondary school for A-level and graduated this year from Makerere University.
What was life like for you growing up?
I was raised by a single mother, because my father passed on. Life was hard but because my family wanted me to be a musician, they supported me….they allowed me to sing.
When did you start singing?
I started at Ndere Cultural Centre, watching the dance festivals. I later on joined Kika Dance Troupe. After leaving Kika Dance Troupe, I started singing in school; I felt the industry needed new blood and I had passion for music.
How many songs do you have?
I have 15 songs, but currently I have two audios that are out and two videos that are also out.
What next after Quinamino?
Quinamino was my first idea, but have a new jam called Lo Fit and the video is soon coming out. Guys should just watch the space because this song is going to be massive. Quinamino has helped me get connections, though. My other songs are Crazy Lover, Repeat It, and Mbinyumirwa.Â
How do you rate Ugandan music today and back then?
Nowadays there is a lot of competition; you have to work hard because there is a lot of pressure from the fans who demand good music. You have to produce good [sound and lyrics] to stay relevant. And Ugandan artistes are starting to copy what other countries are doing like doing good music videos. [It also helps that] Ugandans are loving their own music.
But the industry is struggling under drug abuse!
Well, what I can say is that people use drugs in the bad way. Artistes’ management needs to control their brands, but the problem with some artistes is that they are stronger than their management teams and you find he or she won’t take the advice they are given. And also most of them use drugs without eating anything.
Just stay away from drugs if you can’t handle them because they will spoil your career. I for one don’t use drugs but I drink alcohol once in a while.
What is between you and Maurice Kirya?
Hahahahaha…I fell in love with Maurice Kirya because of his talent. He is so talented. He is so real. I don’t have [romantic] feelings for him, but I love his talent. I mean, the guy is so free…he makes music look so simple yet it is hard to do. His vocals are just good.
Where do you see yourself in the near future?
I see myself at the international level in the next years and I am working hard to make good music from now on, and becoming the best artiste in Uganda.
What is your last word for the fans?
They should believe in me because I have a lot in stock for them and also they should work hard because the world only [respects] someone who works hard.
atiluknathan@gmail.com