Singing for god: She was crowned the Best Female Artiste of 2015 in the recently-held VIGA awards. Her music is popular in gospel and secular music circles, and this, Julie Mutesasira owes to Judith Babirye, her mentor. She shared this and more with her fan Doreen.
Briefly tell me about yourself?
My name is Julie Mutesasira. I am quiet, but friendly. I think that is how best I can describe myself.
Tell me about your family background?
I was born on February 27, 1978 at Mulago Hospital to Rose Namubiru Lutwama and the late Henry Ssebatta. I am the eldest of three; I have one sister and a brother. We grew up in Old Kampala, but shifted to Kanyanya, another Kampala neighbourhood.
Why did you decide to do gospel instead of secular music?
I felt like I needed to give back to God for the voice he gave me. I believe through gospel music, I communicate with people about the love of God. But I also sing love songs.
Which is your best song from those you have released so far and why?
I love all my songs, but those that brought me to the limelight include Lwana Nabo and Ekikunyumira. I have a special feeling about those particular songs.
How many songs have you released so far?
I have released about 20 songs so far and some include Saba, Ekikunyumira, Nkizudde, Nterekera, List Ya Mukama and Kijjakugwa, among others.
Is Julie Mutesasira married?
Yes, I am married to Steven Mutesasira, the pastor and most people call me the preacher’s wife.
How did you join the music industry?
My first song was Nkwagala. I started singing slowly, and grew into it. The way I sing is not really different, only that, I speak to the souls of people.
Who is your best Ugandan artiste and why?
Judith Babirye is my favourite because she is my role model and mentor. I love her voice and personality.
How is Julie the artiste different from Julie the person?
Julie the artiste is tough, she sings, talks to people on stage, is stylish, loves her fans but the Julie Mutesasira off stage is a simple, quiet woman. She loves spending time at home and has a great sense of humour.
How do you benefit from gospel music?
I have got testimonies of people saying “I am blessed by your music”, or “ I was in a situation and your music helped me”. That is how I benefit from it.
What regrets do you have in life?
I believe the death of my aunt is one thing that I will always have at heart. This is because my world came crashing down after I lost her.
In fact, it is from her death that I learnt that anyone can be called at any time by God, regardless of their age, status and wealth. Much as I knew that she was sick, I never expected her to die soon.
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