Joseph Kiggundu with Eddie Kenzo
SHOWBIZ: Joseph Kiggundu goes by the name Jose Jobs Link in the entertainment circles. He is one of the people who sell artistes abroad. The UK promoter shares on what it means to hook local artistes’ gigs.
How did you end up settling in the UK?
I came to get capital to start up a business, but after spending two years in London, I decided to stay because I had got a permanent job. My first job was washing cars at a bay in West London, and my manager later promoted me because I was a good worker. It helped me a lot because after about seven months, I bought my own car wash bay and three more after two years.
From car wash to promoting musicians… how did that happen?
I began with just sponsoring events back in Uganda as a way of promoting my company and at the same time supporting the industry, but I later found myself investing in concerts and it is four years now.
Which Ugandan musicians have you worked with so far?
Mary Bata, King Kong Mc (RIP), King Saha, Kalifah Aganaga, Haruna Mubiru, Juliana Kanyomozi, Jose Chameleone, Eddy Kenzo, The Ebonies, Bakayimbira Dramactors, Spice Diana, Radio (RIP) & Weasel, Ykee Benda, Cindy Sanyu, Eddy Yawe, Carol Nantongo, Gravity Omutuju.
We have heard some absurd tales regarding the treatment our musicians get when they are booked for concerts abroad. How absurd is it?
All artistes who have worked with me are happy and I am sure they will always work with me.
What distinguishes you from other promoters abroad?
I am a professional. I registered my company lawfully and besides, I sometimes take risks with upcoming artistes yet other promoters go for strictly established ones. I have worked with lots of young talent and seen them become big artistes.
Who is the most expensive Ugandan artiste to book?
David Lutalo is doing well at the moment. But before, it was Chameleone, Eddy Kenzo and Juliana Kanyomozi. Other expensive ones are Sheebah and Bebe Cool, although I have not worked with them yet.
What do you consider before booking an artiste?
I consider the power of return on tickets, and also the possibility of getting visas because some artistes do not have a travel history and so it is not easy to get them visas.
Do you only promote Ugandan artistes, though?
For now, yes.
What in your view is making us lag behind the Nigerians?
We lack international managers, since it gets hard for our artistes to acquire solid presence internationally, the way it is for Nigerians. The only one with such is Chameleone.