King Kong gave up his job to focus on his passion, and although he does not disclose how much comedy and dance fetch him, he is a happy 28-year-old. PHOTO BY ISAAC SEJJOMBWE
BORN TO DANCE: He discovered his art in P.4 and since then he has focused on perfecting his art. Comedian cum dancer, King Kong shared this and more with his fan Abigail.
Who is King Kong?
King Kong is a comedian, TV and radio presenter, as well as a dancer.
What is your real name and why did you choose the name King Kong?
My real name is Lumu Ssempala. I chose King Kong because it is a rare name.
What would you call your type of comedy?
I do stand-up comedy.
I have seen you dancing in several videos. How much are you paid to do that?
It depends on the deal we had with the artiste. The amount is not fixed, although I am paid highly.
Where did you learn how to dance like that from?
Dancing is a talent one has to discover and I found mine in 1994 when I was in Primary Four. I have been perfecting the skill since then.
Among the videos you have featured in, which do you consider your best?
Eddy Kenzo’s Maria Roza video.
Who is your best Ugandan comedian and why?
Amooti, because he paved the way for most of us; He is natural, funny and experienced. He is our mentor.
Are you married?
No.
You previously worked at Galaxy FM. Why did you leave the job?
I left media work because I do not have time. I am ever busy with shows in and out of the country, but I will come back soon.
What do you think is lacking in the comedy industry?
We lack creativity and unity. If we can work on that, then I guarantee you this industry will be the best in Africa.
Between comedy and dancing, what do you love more?
Both are actually the same. I started with dancing, but a combination of both defines me as a comedian.
When did you learn you had the talent for comedy?
In 2005, after participating in karaoke for a year.
How much do you charge to do comedy at a function?
I cannot disclose my earnings because thugs might attack me.
What do you think has kept you from going places like Salvado and Ann Kansiime?
But I have also been going places. Unless you have not been following up the videos I have been dancing in.
Besides comedy and dancing, what else do you do?
I am a part-time mechanic and if I fail to repair a car, I refer my client to the best mechanics.
How old are you?
28 years old.
How different are you from other comedians?
I sing, dance and act at the same time. No other comedian can do that.
Of the male and female comedians in Uganda, who do you think is better?
Of course, the male are the best.
Is it okay for a comedian to be both on radio and TV?
It is not okay because he/she can be exploited, which in the end will undervalue him or her. But if a comedian has responsibilities, then it is okay because it is what puts food on the table at the end of the day.
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