The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
By Agnes E. Nantaba
Irene Ntale is a musician signed to Swangz Avenue. She spoke to Agnes E. Nantaba about her music journey and growing under the auspices of a single mother.
Any three things we don’t know about you?
I was born 26 years ago and was raised by a single mother as my father passed on when I was only two. I am a Procurement graduate of Kyambogo University, a very good cook, I live with my mother and everything I do is related to music. I professionally rolled out in music in 2013 when I was signed to Swangz Avenue. I plan to have a family before I clock 30 years. I am a complete musician who not only sings and plays the guitar but can also play drums and flute.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
There is no such a thing as perfect happiness but I believe that good health and good relationship with God creates some level of happiness.
What is your greatest fear?
Rejection and being booed off stage.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
I bite my nails which is very bad and I can’t stop doing it, because I play the guitar.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
People who let down those who trust them.
Which living person do you most admire?
My mother; our father passed on at a time when we were very young but she raised us all.
What is your greatest extravagance?
My hair; I change hairstyles every week and I don’t mind spending any amount on it. I like short hair dos because long ones don’t suit my face.
What is your current state of mind?
I am at peace with my self
What is your assessment of the music industry in Uganda?
The industry has grown over the years as musicians are growing in recognition beyond borders thanks to those who came before us.
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
Going to church; I believe that it’s a personal relationship with God that counts not how many times you go to church.
On what occasion do you lie?
I would lie more to save my mother from any harm.
What do you most dislike about your appearance?
I used to be insecure with my feet because people used to say it looks like ginger but I have come to terms with it.
Which living person do you most despise?
I despise two faced people
What is the quality you most like in a man?
Self-esteem covers up all.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
She should be confident and content with herself.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
It’s a Luganda phrase ‘Kijja Kuggwa’ loosely translated ‘it will come to pass’
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
My nephew; at three, my love for him keeps growing.
When and where were you happiest?
I can’t say happiest but I was happy traveling to Vegas for holiday.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Dancing; I really want to be a good dancer but its taking long.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
Nothing because I am perfectly and wonderfully made.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Being hosted on BBC Focus on Africa in 2014; it was a big platform to grow and market my music.
If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what would it be?
Irene Ntale the doctor. Doctors make a lot of sacrifice.
Where would you most like to live?
Not anywhere else apart from Kampala.
What is your most treasured possession?
Materialistic, it is my car a Land Cruiser Prado TX but I also can’t imagine losing my voice.
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
When you lose the people you love especially family.
What is your favorite occupation?
Being a musician and instrumentalist.
What is your most marked characteristic?
Most people around me say I am a very generous person.
What do you most value in your friends?
Loyalty; if I have your back, then I you should mine.
Who are your favorite writers?
I used to read Danielle Steel and Mills and Boon back in the days. But do less reading now.
Who is your hero of fiction?
Sylvester Stallone ‘Rambo’
Which historical figure do you most identify with?
Winnie Mandela; she was a go getter who didn’t settle for less.
Who are your heroes in real life?
My mother, two managers who have done the job for three years and my fans.
What are your favorite names?
Zhein and Alaine which I hope to name my children.
What is your greatest regret?
I lost a friend but two days before he had called me and wanted to see me although I failed to meet him and he was pronounced dead after drowning in a swimming pool. I regret having failed to meet him due to my busy schedule.
How would you like to die?
I don’t want to talk about death.
What is your motto?
Never give up in life .
