Sanyu Jemimah (L) with her fan Diana Mukisa during their hangout session. Photo by Rachael Ajwang
Energetic Jemimah: Last year’s Qwela Junction featuring Divas at Kampala Serena Hotel opened doors for Jemimah Sanyu as she emerged as the most entertaining among the seven artistes that performed. Her time on stage left a lasting impression on those who attended. She shared her career journey and passion with her fan Diana Mukisa.
Tell me about Jemimah Sanyu.
I was born in Jinja District and I am a proud Musoga. I studied Computer Networking at Makerere University, I have a band called UNIT446 and we perform at the Pyramids every Wednesday, Jazzville Bugolobi every Thursday and Liquid Silk every last Saturday of the month.
When did you join the music industry?
I started singing when I was still young and in school, but professionally I started in 2010 when I released my single, Ziba Amaaso, which is produced by Legend P of Fenon Records.
Tell me about your music journey; where you started from to where you are now.
I broke out after my single Ziba Amaaso, a duet Amaasogo Gogera which featured Navio. The song was produced by Henry Kiwuwa and composed by Richard Kawesa. I also have a song called Kankusute which was produced by my brother Big Nash.
Where do you get the energy you use on stage?
I also don’t know where the energy during my performances comes from, but all I can say, it’s a God-given talent and the love for what I do that have earned me the respect of a good live performer.
What’s the difference between Jemimah the artiste and Jemimah the person?
Jemimah the artiste is a goddess, but Jemimah the person is a mummy’s girl, humble, hardworking, and wears no makeup most of the time.
Who inspired you to join this music industry?
It was my producer, Legend P, who inspired me. He sat me down and explained the difference between just recording songs and holding a microphone on stage. My family too; my mother, Nash and my sisters. We have a strong music background from church.
How far will you go with music?
My name is becoming bigger than me the real person. I do not know whether I will be able to stand the pressure and challenges that come with it. I am getting signed under one of the biggest recording companies in Germany called “Delicious Tunes”, I’m also in preparations for both my African and European tours as well as preparing for the biggest ‘arts market womex’ studio album.
What else have you done in music?
I am the most toured Ugandan female artiste. I have been to several festivals around the world such as Selam Festival in Ethiopia, The choices, The elephants, Go down gig, and Sondeka festivals all in Kenya. I have also been to Tanzania, Congo, Somalia and we were just from Morroco Viza for the music festival. I have been to other places.
Are you under any management?
I am signing papers with delicious tunes.
Who do you consider your all – time best Ugandan artiste and why?
Philly Bongole Lutaya. His music still lives up to now.
If you were not a musician, what would you be?
I would be either a designer or hair stylist. It is another passion I have.
What is your style of music like?
I call it Afro fusion.
Where do we see Jemimah five years from now?
Five years from now, I will be the biggest African live performing female artiste.
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