Northern connection: She had a successful concert a few months ago and fans have enjoyed her music and performance on several occasions across northern region but who is Jenneth Prischa? Isaac Ssejjombwe finds out more about northern Uganda’s music queen.
So who is Jenneth Prischa?
I am a village girl who grew up from Paluga Village in Lamwo District. My real name is Jenneth Prisca Amony, although people prefer to call me Jenneth Prischa.
When and why did you start singing?
I started way back in primary school. I was spotted by my teacher during the interschool singing competitions. I kept on with the challenge until 2012 during my Senior Four vacation when I joined professional music and released three songs. I am doing music because I have passion for it and it is what my mindset wants.
Do you come from a musical background?
Yes. My dad is a great traditional music performer as well as a writer. He is an amazing man when it comes to the royal Bwola dance. This kept me on my toes to ensure I follow in his footsteps.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
Locally from northern Uganda I give it all to lady Roselyn Otim because I used to listen to most of her songs and prayed to be like her one day. At national level I have quite a number, notably Cindy Sanyu, Juliana and Judith Babirye.
Who writes your songs?
I have written most of my songs, but my producer also helps me sometimes, as well as close friends who I consult before I storm the studio. I also have three songs from my dad that I will be releasing soon.
Tell us about your journey to stardom.
In 2012, I recorded three songs that never hit the charts. However, in 2013 there was a song competition by ‘save the children international’ on domestic violence where we were given themes to work around on domestic violence.
I was pleased to be the overall winner with my song Owek Tim Gero. I scooped an accolade and a cash prize that enabled me return to studio and produce more songs as well as do promotions.
We hear that you are the best northern female artiste. How does that feel?
It is a pleasure and honour but I first have to thank God for the talent, then to all my fans, especially the women from across the region who have been my backbone. I would be nowhere without their support.
Four years in music, what do you have to show for your success?
Since my breakthrough in 2012, I have concentrated on producing educative songs. In 2013 my songs Tim Gero and Ange koko Too produced in 2015 made me walk home with an award prize as the best female artiste of the year.
Then I had a concert a few months ago which went down as one of the most successful events in northern Uganda. I have been nominated in a number of awards and so much more.
Tells us about you education.
It hurts that I did not complete my education due to financial issues. After my lower level education from YY Okot in Kitgum District, I joined a vocational institute where I graduated with a diploma in garment-making from Labora Technical Institute.
Nevertheless, with my music at heart, I realised education was not the only thing I needed because I take my music as a business.
How do you describe your type of music?
I am versatile. I have more than 20 songs and this has a mixed blend of afro, hip hop, dancehall and gospel songs. I am trying to find a perfect niche.
In one sentence, how would you describe your fans?
Our fans in northern Ugandan are fun-loving, very loyal and there is no doubt that they will always want to associate with a local artiste because they feel they need to support home groomed talent.
