FAN TIME: Patrick Byamukama is a big fan of Calvin da Entertainer, and when chance came to meet the UBC TV presenter, he was exctied!
Why do you call yourself “Da Entertainer”?
I’ve always brought a smile on people’s faces. Back in high school, I was a break dancer and I’m paid to entertain, inform and keep fans updated on what is new in the entertainment world. So I derive it from my job “Calvin da Entertainer”, aka swag coach, aka 7*.
What is your real name?
Calvin Peter Kalule
How did you join TV?
In 2008, a friend called Melanie Kaita who used to work with Sanyu FM and UBC told me that UBC was conducting interviews for a new, talented and vibrant face of entertainment. She recommended me and a few days after I received a call from Sophia Matovu, now the head of production at WBS TV. I auditioned with a number of guys, and I was among the top three. A few weeks later, I hit the big screen. My show was a 10-minute news programme then, but after two months it had gained more audience and sponsorship that when we introduced more interesting segments, it was given more time.
Seven years on TV, how has the experience been?
TV is an awesome endless experience because you not only get paid to entertain others, but it also comes with many other benefits like fans, hot girls…joking. I’ve been able to meet friends who have greatly contributed towards my career. I’ve also been able to learn editing, directing and producing entertainment shows.
Besides TV, what else do you do?
Professionally I am an IT person. I design websites, fix computers, music promotions, and I am also into farming. At UBC I also double as the head of the entertainment section.
What was the beginning like?
The beginning wasn’t so tough because I’ve always had a great support team and TV is my passion. Well, I had a few challenges with studio coordination, a few on-air mistakes at the start and since all my TV shows are live, nothing is cut out. I also used to hate negative and abusive criticism from the press but with time I realised that those who criticise the most are my biggest fans and to keep the fire burning, you need the negative criticism too.
What is your average day like?
I wake up at 6am, get to work by 7.30am, check my emails some times, do a preparation for a new morning show, compile music playlists, have breakfast at 9am, meet my team before the show airs, have lunch, receive music, compile playlists. I leave work at 4.30pm.
Tell me about your family and education background?
I was raised by a single mum, I am the last born, I attended St. Peters Naalya, Progressive SS, Kyambogo College for A-Level, Skim Manipal University, and Aptech where I majored in Information Systems Management and Information Technology. I also did a short course in presenting, editing and production at Media School Africa.
Who are your top five presenters?
1. Calvin da Entertainer
2. Terrence Jenkins of E &Former host of 106&park BET
3.Flavia Tumusiime
4. Dave Kazoora
5.Dr Mitch Egwang
Who inspired you to do TV?
People like Kazoora, McKenzie, Terrence. They have managed to stay relevant and still great at what they do.
Do you think the music industry is heading in the right direction?
Our music industry is blossoming. Young people have changed and influenced this industry for better. Even the big names like Bebe Cool have upgraded. I’m sure you have watched “Love you every day”, Chameleone’s “Wale Wale”, Kenzo’s “Sitya Loss), Navio etc. Artistes doing urban music have set the pace for quality. I give credit to our local video production houses. Our videos can compete globally and I think we should just keep being original.
What are the five things you can’t do without?
1. God
2. Love
3. Friends
4. Money
5. My phone
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