David Lutalo with his fan Jane. The singer says besides music, he enjoys football, boxing, and he is a Uganda Cranes diehard. PHoto by Michael Kakumirizi
David Lutalo: He is one of the artistes setting Ugandan airwaves ablaze currently. He walked away with awards for Male Artiste of the Year at the HiPipo and Zzina awards and his ‘Manya’ concert at the beginning of the year was a success. David Lutalo met with his fan, Jane, and this is what they talked about.
When did you start your music journey?
I started at a very young age. I composed Batusosola when I was in S.2, then did Kapapala when I was in S.4. There are other songs that I composed while in primary school.
How old are you?
I am 30 years old. I was born in March 1986.
What have you achieved out of music?
I have achieved a lot. I now have a name, a house, but most importantly, I have fans. They are the reason I am where I am.
Who writes your music?
I write my music myself.
We have seen so many artistes pick fancy names. Why did you decide to use your real name?
I cannot hide away from my identity. David Lutalo is my name and it is how I would like to be known.
How do you feel when you hear your song become a hit?
I feel happy from the bottom of my heart because it shows me that what I have sung has had an impact on people’s lives.
How many music albums do you have?
I have eight; ‘Kapapala’, which had Batusosola and Ayi Mukama, ‘Janjaba’, which had Embwa Ye Katwe, then Yamba, Engumba Zange then Wagyetugenda, Akantu and Manya.
Briefly describe yourself?
What you see is what you get. I am a soccer fan and I support Uganda Cranes first before anything else. Arsenal and Barcelona come next.
What style of music do you do?
I can sing any style of music because I sing for all sorts of people. So you can say I am versatile.
Are you married?
Yes, with two children; a boy and a girl.
What schools did you attend?
I went to Balitta Lwogi Primary School, then joined Kasana Town Academy in Luweero, and Busisa Grammar where I studied half of S.6.
Why did you study half way?
I stopped in S.6 because my father got some difficulties and I had to pay for my education. I have thought about finishing school and even registered, but I have not got time. I want to go back to school though.
Where do you think the Ugandan music industry is heading a few years from now?
As Ugandan artistes, we are at war to cut across Africa. We believe we are the most talented country in Africa but why haven’t we penetrated other countries? We might be doing it individually, but we shall get there.
Away from music, what are your other hobbies?
I enjoy football. I used to play football a lot. I also enjoy boxing, watching movies, spending time with my family and playing with my children.
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