Mbale’s gospel star: He started doing music nine years ago and among the things he is thankful to God for is lifting him from nothing to something. Peter wamono shared his story with Olivier Mukaaya.
Who is Peter Wamono?
Peter Wamono a child of God, a gospel singer, writer, producer, a pastor and businessman. I also go to other countries such as Austria and USA to preach in churches and I have been doing it for years.
What inspired you to join the music industry?
I have always loved music. When I was a child we had a small Panasonic radio with one speaker. I used to listen to music on it and my mum often said I would be musician.
What style of music do you do?
I was born near the border of Kenya and I used to listen to KSB music a lot. They used to play English music which was mixed with RnB, Rock, African and blues and I think my style is more of that.
Do you write your own songs?
Yes, and I also produce my music. Some of my lyrics are out of experience while others God has given me in my sleep.
How many songs have you produced?
I have recorded 31 songs, with three albums; Keep Going, This Is Our God and Surrender, but I still have more songs that are not recorded yet. Soon I will be shooting my first video.
Besides music, what else do you do?
I am a businessman. I run a travel company called Board Less Travels which does tour guiding. The Bible says Paul used to make tents so I am doing that too. I also preach at a church called Musaale, a Gishu word meaning ‘friend’ and its located in Mbale at Mbale Resort Hotel with a branch in Soroti.
Do you have any collaborations?
Yes, I have worked with a guy from Watoto church called Denis and a lady called Anita who is now living in UK and she was part of a band called Qwela. We did This is our God, At the cross and Ambawo. I do my music to glorify God, not promote myself.
Among the collaborations you have, which is your best and why?
I like all the songs, many people have been asking the same question but I like all the songs I did with these guys because I write them and I spend a lot of time on them.
What do you think of the music industry in Uganda?
I don’t really know about the local artistes in Uganda and it does not mean that I don’t like them. But I must say gospel artistes in Uganda limit their audience, meaning that they only target those who understand their local languages yet we are supposed to influence and encourage everyone around the world with the love of Christ instead of self-promotion.
Any challenges you face in this industry?
Wow! I have had many challenges; leadership, relationship challenges but God has been on my side working with me to stabilise myself which has helped me find strength in him.