Because of financial constraints, Carol Nantongo did not study A-Level. However, her mother encouraged her to pursue hairdressing, which she gladly did until a friend encouraged her to register for the Coca Cola Related Next, a singing competition. Despite not winning, this competition was a start of a journey she would later take for a career.
Her talent in this competition was identified by a lady who connected her to Golden Band, which she became a part of and in 2016, she released Ontuka, a collaboration with Dr Hilderman. It is also this song that blossomed her singing career.
Last Friday at Africana Parking Space, this was one of the songs that the crowd loved most during Nantongo’s maiden concert that attracted thousands. The crowd loved the chemistry between Nantongo and Hilderman, who has rarely performed at concerts ever since he went to Parliament. The sight of him on stage put a smile on many people’s faces.
This concert was a testament that Nantongo has matured in the industry. This was the remaining piece of the puzzle in her career that spans eight years where she has literally done it all.
The concert was an excellent showcase of her talent, not only drawing her fans but also attracting fellow artistes, who showed her solidarity; Levixone, B2C, Vinka, Mary Bata, Kapa Cat, Grenade Official, Grace Morgan, Chosen Becky, Nador Love of the Ekinawolovu fame, Catherine Kusasira, Fenon’s Warafiki and Eddy Yawe .
Fenon Events was the perfect choice for the production of this show, erecting a stage design which was a visual spectacle, with expansive screens and dynamic lighting, creating a captivating backdrop for each performance while the sound quality was flawless, ensuring that every note resonated with the audience.
Nantongo had different sessions, with her first showcase at 10pm clad in a snow-white gown embedded with African kikoyi patches and backed by troupe dancers. She started off with Kamese Tambula, setting the mood for the audience on what was coming next. She was on stage for 45 minutes, mostly doing her singles.
The singer returned at 11pm for her second set, opening with Tosalawo but the highlights were the collaboration with Yawe and Hilderman.