Gilbert Bukenya, alias Instramento
Big moves: Gilbert Bukenya, alias Instramento, is only 21 years old but is the CEO Paris Records. He is a producer, composer and songwriter based in Mbarara.
What is the story behind the name Instramento?
I am a producer and I play instruments, so I wanted something unique and appealing to people’s ears.
When did you start producing music and how is your experience going so far?
After my S.4 in 2019, I had wanted to join A-Level, but that is when Covid-19 hit and I remember spending my vacation at home and I got fed up of village life, so I requested my parents to support me do something that would keep me busy. Considering the fact that I loved music, I did some research about music production and decided to join production, although it took time for the record label to accept me.
What is your take on the music industry in western Uganda?
Our western music industry is improving, we have new young talented artistes on boardand artistes are learning new things. We have so many artistes now compared to the past years.
Why do you think we have few females in the music industry in western Uganda?
Our population here is small compared to the central. It is true we have few women in this game but there are some talented ones who do not have the right people to advise them. You know women always need people who can build them, not those who want to take advantage of them, but when they land on people who take advantage of them then it becomes hard for them to sustain a career in the industry.
Why do you think there are few outstanding music producers in western Uganda?
Some producers do not research, yet it is the most important aspect in one’s career; producers create beats just for the sake, not thinking about how far it will go. It is better to create a beat that will be listened to worldwide; there is more we need to do to create music that can compete with Nigerians, Tanzanians and others.
Some producers are just money-minded; they do not mind what will be put out as long as this young artiste pays up
What have you achieved so far?
I won the Blink Media Personality of the Year award and I have managed to work with some big musicians.
Which songs and artistes have you worked with?
I have worked with Truth256, Ambroy, Agaba Banjo, Ivan Clean, Posha Naggaz Official and some of the projects I have worked on include ‘To Party’ and ‘Ndongo’ by Ambroy, ‘Nooha’ and ‘Oburoro’ by Truth256, ‘Confession’ by Ivan Clean and Banjo and ‘Penninah’ by Agaba Banjo and Baby Dosh .
What motivates you?
The fans. They give me a lot of energy and confidence to keep going.
What demotivates you?
Being disappointed, for instance, if I have an appointment with someone to do a project and they do not turn up for the session.
What are some of the challenges you have encountered in this industry?
Some artistes do not want to invest in production. It is always a hustle to do the work very well. They do not want to invest, some do not promote the songs, especially on social media platforms, which makes a song fade.
Any advice to upcoming artistes?
Always stay focused, be humble put in effort in your work and pray to God about everything.
Your last message to fans.
I urge them to keep supporting us, let us build our music industry. Western Uganda has talent but lacks enough support.
What do you enjoy during your free time?
I enjoy being in studio creating something new. I also love watching movies because I rarely hang out.
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