PERFECT COLLABO: Two of Africa’s top artistes, Diamond Platnumz and Patoranking, are slated to share a stage in Kampala. Diamond Platnumz, a good performer, was the most awarded artiste in 2014 and 2015, while Patoranking is a perfect fit for Uganda because of his reggae dancehall style. His songs have done well on our airwaves and in hangout spots. The two artistes have different styles and different fan bases, which should drive a big crowd to Lugogo Cricket Oval tonight. Edgar R. Batte writes.
Diamond Platinumz
How would you introduce yourself to a stranger?
I am Diamond Platinumz, which is my showbiz name but my real name is Abdul Juma Issaack Nasibu. I am humble and hardworking, and I will not give up on my dream. I do not like giving up on my dream.
From the tabloids, it looks like you have a close relationship with your mother. Would you say you are a ‘Mummy’s boy’?
Of course, I have a strong relationship with my mum because I love her so much. She means the world to me. If you called me mummy’s boy, I would not feel ashamed. So Yes, I am a mummy’s boy.
Tell us about your journey as an artiste and song writer?
My journey was not that easy. Even now, I have to put in a lot of work and when I write a song, I have to make sure the message is delivered to the people that I want to hear it.
Should we expect a collabo with any of our artistes soon?
Yeah sure, why not?
Who are your inspirations in the music industry?
Usher Raymond.
In all your videos you love to dance and are quite good at it, have you always been a dancer?
I used to enjoy dancing before I became an artiste but not professionally. when I started singing, I thought it better to combine both and I am glad my fans love it.
I bet your home is decorated with awards now, but tell us about your biggest achievement so far?
My biggest achievement so far is when I won the MTV EMA Best Worldwide Act in Milan, Italy.
Now that your relationship with the boss lady Zari is official, should we expect wedding bells?
Wedding bells… yeah sure.
It is not your first time in Uganda, what do you think of Uganda and its people?
I love Uganda, and as you know my daughter is half Ugandan and the people here are so friendly.
What do you think of Ugandan music in comparison with Tanzanian music?
The music is almost the same because we all fly the East African flag high.
How would you describe your fashion style?
I call it Diamond Style because it comes with my mood.
What are you working on for 2016?
My work for 2016 is in the works. Just expect the best, that is all I can say.
Patoranking
GOOD YEAR: In Uganda, he is famed for songs such as Girlie O, Daniella Whine and My Woman, My Everything and tonight the 25-year-old Patoranking will hopeful stir up fans live at Lugogo Cricket Oval.
When and how did you get into music?
It all started in my mother’s womb. Many times, my mum thought I was kicking, but what I was really doing was dancing. Years later, I was pursing football and entertainment. I was and still am a great footballer, but along my path, I decided to focus on music.
At some point you were a dancer…
Oh yeah, and many do not know that I started as a dancer. I was in a dance crew and we were popular in the ghetto. Then I turned to doing music. I had grown up listening to reggae and dancehall. So naturally, I began to craft my music around the genres. Learning patois and about all the top musicians in the game, I wanted to perfect my craft. I also wanted to be different, to do something different. Everyone was going right, so I decided to go left.
What was your biggest breakthrough in the industry?
My biggest breakthrough was my song, Alubarika. I released it in 2013 and since then my life was rearranged. I have to thank Timaya for doing the track with me and helping to boost me to the next level of my career.
Do you still consider yourself a dancer?
I am a dancer. Dancing is as much a part of me and my performance just as my music.
How would you describe yourself?
I am a hard worker, passionate about my music and my fans. I work hard for my family, my fans, my team, my Africa, and myself.
Tell us about Alubarika. What does the word mean?
Alubarika means God’s blessings. In the song, I tell my story. It is that simple. I want my fans and the world to understand my story and go on the same journey with me.
What has been your greatest achievement so far in the industry?
Travelling the world to share my music; there is no better feeling than getting on that stage and being able to share my voice and music with my fans, one on one.
Should we expect a collaboration with any of our Ugandan artistes soon?
Definitely. Uganda is one of my homes, so you can expect a lot more works in 2016.
Are you single or dating?
I am single and in a committed relationship with my music
What is your opinion of the music industry in Uganda compared to that in Nigeria?
The Ugandan industry is growing, so many great talents coming out of UG and East Africa. I think it is important for people to remember that music is about quality, not quantity. Great music comes from all parts of the world, so the comparisons are not needed. Just work hard, create timeless music, and the world will open its ears to you.
What are your plans for 2016?
2016, my fans and family will receive my first album. We have some great singles on the way and some great projects to give my fans more opportunities to interact with me and my music
What to expect at born to win concert
According to Talent Africa’s chief executive officer Aly Allibhai, Diamond and Patoranking will perform for at least one hour. However, Diamond is known to be carried away into stretching his performance.
A few local artistes will curtain raise at the show, and these include Sheebah Karungi, Navio, Cindy, Gravity Omutujju and Peter Miles. Allibhai says the show is targeting everyone, from students to holiday-makers, corporates, tourists, socialites and VVIPs.
“We have three classes of tickets; general at 30k, VIP at 70k and VVIP tables, so we are catering to different budgets,” he said. The concert is a one-off do between the two artistes.
Silk Events will manage the sound, given their experience and on-point production and Allibhai says the show is going to be different because it features two big African stars who are diverse in their styles.
“It will be well organised, secure and safe. Ugandans should be ready for the biggest event of the holiday season. They should come ready to party and have fun at a highly-entertaining event.”