NEWBIE: Lydia Jazmine broke out with U Know, her collabo with Rabadaba. She meets fan Benjamin Baguma, a businessman at Wilson Street and narrates her musicial journey
Hi Lydia. What inspired you to do music?
Music is a talent I’m blessed with. because I used to lead church choir and also represent my school in various musical competitions around the country. I used to watch lots of music videos and seeing the journey Juliana went through, I promised myself to go ahead and achieve the dream. Also, my cousin Lyton Namubiru, is also an artiste, based in the UK and I was inspired by her.
How old are you?
I’m making 23 this year.
What was your first song ever?
Gwendota was my first track. I did it two years back and because I was so excited about it, we shot the video using a friend’s camera but we never pushed it. It was basically for my own viewing.
I believe U Know, with Rabadaba was your breakthrough song. How did you guys link up?
I had gone to Badi Studios to record that track, and the producer, Niseem, had another session with Rabadaba immediately after mine. When he heard the song, he asked if he could throw in a verse and since he’s established, I gladly accepted and in two minutes, he was done with his verse, thus the birth of the hit U Know.
What are your future projects?
A lot. I’m looking at working with a number of artistes like David Lutalo, King Saha, Maro, Angelina, Anita da Diva and Sheeba among others. I’m basically going to be working hard to lead the pack of upcoming female artistes of this generation.
Which musician do you admire?
I have quite a number, like Bebe Cool because of his promotion abilities. He has helped many artistes including Rema, Edith K and others. Kenzo is hard working and never gives up. Juliana and Iryn have always been my idols. Grace is a true definition of a Diva.
Are you dating?
I was, but not anymore.
Why not?
My relationship didn’t work out and I decided we break it off. I’m now concentrating on my music career. Time for relationships will come when I’m established.
Besides music, what else are you doing?
I’m a student at Multitech Institute doing a business administration and management course, which I’m completing this year.
What schools did you go to?
I went to Victoria Nile school in Jinja for my Primary, St Mary’s Namaliga and City Land College for my O-Level and then Margret Senior Secondary Kikaya for my A- Level.
Why are you doing music and not business like the course you are doing?
Music is like a spirit in me. I’m in school because I need the qualifications and papers but music is something I’ve always wanted to be part of.
Are you part of Team No Sleep?
My manager Bushington has always worked with TNS boss Jeff Kiwanuka. I used to back up Radio and Weasel back then, so we work together with TNS.
What challenges are you facing?
Music is so expensive to produce these days, yet fans want the best. Recording, shooting videos, promotion and so on, all require money. And the other challenge is the negative or false stories by the media. Those stories weaken our fanbase because they believe everything they read.
Tell me about your family.
I’m a daughter to Mr William Kasugi and Ms Scolar Nakanwagi. I’m the only girl on my father’s side, with three brothers.
