Rapper: Benezeri is a Ugandan hip hop artiste. The artiste who loves to sing socially conscious music, voicing issues that affect everyday people meets his fan Dennis Mugisha.
What is your real name and why Benezeri for a stage name?
My real name is Benezeri Wanjala Chibita. I felt like my name was unique enough to be used as a stage name.
When did you realise you wanted to be an artiste?
I realised I wanted to be an artiste when I was in S3 at Aga Khan High School.
How do you define your kind of music?
I define my music as beautiful and versatile rap music.
Who influenced you to join the music industry?
I was influenced by my love for Sean Paul and eventually Kanye West. But also, my friends often told me that I’m a good songwriter, so I guess they did too … hehe.
Can you tell me some of your songs?
Zuukuka, Girls From Kampala, Blest, Abeyo, Mama, my new one Togwamu Suubi, and many others
You look like Ruyonga. Have you realised it?
I don’t think I do. But you’re not the first person to tell me that. Has anyone told him that he looks like me?
What do you find the best among your songs and why?
I think my best song currently is Togwamu Suubi, a collaboration with Sandra Suubi and Sam Bisaso. It’s such a beautiful song.
Which schools did you go to?
I went to Aga Khan Primary School for my Primary level, Aga Khan High School from S1 to S3, St Mary’s Kitende for my S4, Vienna College for Year 12 and 13 and finally Uganda Christian University (UCU), Mukono.
What do you think makes an artiste successful?
Persistence, hard work, branding, promotion and most importantly, good songs and videos.
Besides music, what else do you do?
I have been pursuing a degree in Mass Communication at UCU. I’m graduating in February.
What annoys you the most?
Lies annoy me the most.
Who is your role model?
My role model musically is Kanye West and in character, it’s my father.
How would you describe yourself?
I would describe myself as a good-hearted person with big dreams.
Are you signed to any record label?
No I’m not. I’m doing my thing as a solo artiste.
Who is your best artiste in East Africa?
Radio and Weasel.
What do you aspire to be in the future?
I aspire to be a household name in Africa.
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