Bruce Dickson Atwooki
Several talent searches have come and gone. Some have nurtured some of the good artistes we have in the industry while others were a money-making venture. To Bruce Dickson Atwooki, participating in the Pearl of Africa star search taught him so much.
Who is Bruce Dickson?
Bruce Dickson Byoona Atwooki is a son of the late John Nelson Bruce from Masindi district in Western Uganda.
As a contestant in the Pearl of Africa (POA) star search, did you learn anything?
One of our Music mentors during the POA Star search competitions encouraged us to make research and study trends if we wanted to become successful commercial artistes. My research and findings showed me what kind of music people are into.
What inspired you to join music?
My brother back then had a music group called Orchestra Family in Masindi and they would take me with them for performances to entertain the crowds as kid dancers in P6. It created an urge in me to be like them.
However, as I grew, I got so into soccer and did away with music. I started singing while in High school at Kisubi High because a friend of mine called Leopold was an amazing songwriter. Later after school, I started going to Karaoke Session Laparonis, the Drop Muyenga, and Karibu Grill). That is where I got the confidence to sing. It was from there that I got to compete in the popular talent search show the POA Star search where I emerged as a Top 6 finalist from over 2000 contestants and the Western region winner.
Any Challenges you’ve met along the way?
The biggest challenge is always finances. However much you earn, the desires and demands always surpass the resources. Apart from that, I am a survivor, I treat every challenge as an opportunity to grow, so I hardly feel them.
Why music?
First thing is to prove to some people that you don’t judge a book by its cover. Hustlers never quit, when you start something, never stop until it’s done.
But most importantly, I am passionate about music and I believe it’s my calling. I love music and I find the whole process of making music fun.
Who inspires you in music?
My first inspiration was Allan Toniks. Maurice Kirya also inspires me, especially because of his lyrics.
A pass Bagonza, Kenneth Mugabi, John Kay the writer, and Pallaso among others.
How do you make your Music inspire others?
I draw my music from people’s experiences, so it’s easy for them to relate to it. I preach the gospel of smiling because, with it, we cannot fight against each other. (It explains my smiling a lot). This is why I make love songs and music that’s going to make you smile.
Many artistes struggle to make a musical mark. What’s your strategy?
Follow the advice I got during the POA Star search competition. Follow my inspirations closely with an open mind. Trust the guidance and support am getting from different friends and families. And above all trust in the Almighty because all come from prayer (Ziba Saala Zooka).
If you didn’t become a musician, what would you be doing right now?
I would be in marketing and sales or Real Estate management. I am a very good salesman and Trainer.
If you can have your fans remember one thing about you, what would it be?
Am cute (Haha). Maybe my smile and sense of humor.
What’s your message for artistes who are starting?
They should never stop believing that one day they will breakthrough. Pray and believe in the promises of God and avoid bad influence. They shouldn’t use drugs, these will only disrupt them. Above all, be hardworking and zealous. Only you can lead you to greatness, it doesn’t find you.
How would you like talented musicians to be lifted?
Everyone does deserve a chance to show what they got and can accomplish. They should be given a chance to portray what they got. If they have good work, radios and TVs should try to promote it, at least have special programs for looming artists you never know a promoter or record label is listening to take them up. As for me, I would want my work to be heard by the people I think am communicating to, so any support in fulfilling my goal, not only thumbs up, but claps and hugs.
What does your typical day/week look like?
Well, am employed with TECNO Uganda and that is where most of the weekdays are spent. Am a product consultant so am always researching trends in the market to keep me busy alongside other office assignments. Am a salesperson who can sell to you anything.
Tell me about your educational background?
Most of my infant years were spent in Masindi and came to Kampala when I joined O. Level in 2009 in my senior two at Sure Public secondary school where I acquired my UCE certificate. From there I went to Kisubi High Secondary School for High school but only lasted one Term, then transferred to Crested SSS Makindye, where I got my UACE certificate. My academic journey halts at MUBS with a bachelor’s degree in Procurement and Supplies Chain Management.
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