Inspired. John Kasandha, also known as, John Blaq is 23 years old and a dancehall artiste who has garnered an audience from his kind of music. The dark-skinned, soft-spoken man shares with CHARLOTTE NINSIIMA about his life.
The first thing I do in the morning….
I pray and shower at 1pm. This is because we normally work until late.
The first thing I do when I get to work.
I am stationed at the studio, where I cook new vibes for a new song.
My earliest childhood memory…
At nine years, I was running around in the neighbourhood and was struck by a stick and still harbour the scar to date.
My first best friend…
We shifted from Iganga to Jinja were I found Jonan Kitamilike, a neighbour who I almost fought with daily over petty issues. Despite the fact that he was years ahead of me, we attended the same school but I do not know where he is now.
My first girlfriend…
I used to move frequently along the streets and loved hanging out with friends by the roadside in busy centres. At 18, I found a girl (name withheld) by the roadside and made my advance and she warmed up to me. We dated for five months and quit the relationship because she cheated on me.
My first job…
I worked as a porter at one of the construction projects of Azam Company.
And my first salary was…
I earned Shs216,000 per month.
What I like about my current job…
I love the fame that comes with being an artiste, the new friends and you get some money as well.
What I dislike about the job…
People’s perception, they think we have a lot of money to do anything. Also you cannot enjoy your life. Those days, I would ride a bicycle within the city centre to any place but I cannot do that anymore. There are those things one cannot do with such a status.
Also, some people disguise as friends but have ill intentions, so one has to be vigilant always.
Biggest regret in life…
I have none.
Best advice I have received…
Edrisah Kenzo Musuuza advised me to believe in God, be focused and desist from wasting time in battles or trusting any person who I find and laugh with.
My first song…
I unleashed Fire in 2017.
The best gift I have ever received…
A friend of mine surprised me with a valentine’s present comprising a banquet of flowers, delicious cake and a bottle of wine last year.
First book I read…
I love reading Luganda books. One of my first books includes Gilosusa Emwanyi by Paulo Kirimutu.
My childhood hero…
My grandmother brought me up, educated me and she led me to the Catholic faith from Muslim. I love her because she had a big heart.
My role model is…
Moses Nakintije Ssekibogo, aka, Mowzey Radio will always be my number one role model for his uniqueness in character and lyrics in the music industry.
My best moment in the music career…
The day my name was shouted out (got a thunderous applause) as soon as I stepped on stage during the Rolex Festival in 2018.
My worst memory
In 2017, I narrowly survived a terrible accident in Mukono where the car overturned. But I came out with minor injuries and I thank God for life.
My health tip….
I eat fruits, drink water and apply Vaseline every day.
Best football player…
Paul Labile Pogba for his charisma on the football pitch.
Favourite food…
Matooke, fish in gnuts and rice.
Best hangout…
Kalangala Beach.
