Afrigo Band lead vocalist, Joanita Kawalya who also doubles as Vice Chairperson of the Ugandan Performing Rights Society has called for sanity and discipline among Ugandan artistes.
“Discipline is very important especially for our artistes here at home. They need to understand the social and cultural norms and be able to hold onto them,” said Joanita kawalya in an exclusive interview with SoftPower News.
She noted that besides understanding the needs of her fan base, discipline has also helped her better prepare her presentation before the crowd, an attribute that has made her stand out in the industry for this long.
According to Kawalya, artistes should match discipline alongside fame, especially the women if they have to hold onto their families and relationship.
“I would not have reached this far if it was not for my discipline. To our young artistes, especially those labeled as rowdy and indisciplined, you need to change lest you become useless in your state,” the ‘Jim Wange’ singer advised.
“People will abandon you for your acts and character and when your fan base loses trust in you, they will eventually disown you and your music. And this is tragic for the promotion and support of talent,” Joan said.
The music (particularly the secular kind) industry is perceived by many as a club of misbehaved and unruly characters. This is partly derived from the traits most of these musicians exhibit with some engaging in drugs, lack of respect, indecent dressing and endless fights.
To the young upcoming artistes, Kawalya says a high culture of discipline and self-respect is the only sure way to expand their fanbase beyond Uganda.
“No one is willing to deal with an indisciplined person”.
She also cautioned fellow artists on the aspect of financial discipline noting that music is a very expensive trade that requires a lot of money to keep up with the latest market demand.
“Any artist who does not save from the little signings and events is likely to remain broke and eventually become a laughing stoke. It’s at this point in time when fame without money will prove you worthless,” the Afrigo band singer said.
Last week, Joanita Kawalya was named in the Awards organized by Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) to recognize females in Uganda who have done exceptional work in their respective fields and inspiring fellow women.
Kawalya scooped an Award for having stood out as not just a musician but also female activist. Her role in music industry inspired many women into a field of performing arts. She made great contribution towards mentoring young women especially through the Nabagereka’s ‘Ekisakaate’ initiative.