Juliana Kanyomozi is a multiple award-winning, Ugandan Pop musician, actress, and entertainer. We had an opportunity to speak with her. Check the interview below.
Hi, Juliana! We love the vibe of I’m Still Here. Tell us what inspired the song?
I’m Still Here was really inspired by a space I was in, at that time. I looked back at many of my experiences, as a woman and an artist, and it gave me inspiration for that song . First of all, it’s therapeutic to share. You end up inspiring another person to believe in themselves no matter what.
You an uplifting song. Tell us about the writing process.
Interestingly, it was a one of the songs I did much later after I’d recorded what I thought would be my come back song. I’m Still Here was one of those “in the moment” kind of thing. And the moment I was done recording, everyone on the team had the same thing to say. “This has got to be your come back song”.
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How would you describe your sound?
My music is feel good, soulful, deep, inspirational and with a warm feel.
You took a brief hiatus and now you have returned with an incredible song. Tell us about your break. What did you do?
I did a lot of soul-searching and meditation on what direction I really wanted to go as an artist, as a woman, and on a very personal level – what I really want. I also spent a lot of time in studio creating and recording.
Tell us what inspired you to sing.
I just had this deep love for music from the time I was little. I was always happiest, when I had music around me. Nothing else mattered. It didn’t take me very long to realize that this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
Growing up, what songs inspired you?
As a little girl, I listened to a lot of Madonna, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Janet Jackson, and Michael Jackson . As I grew up, I discovered other amazing voices like Anita Baker, Toni Braxton, and etc.,. I owe my career and singing ability to having listened to these artists.
Do you draw from personal experiences to create your music?
A big part of my music is inspired by my personal experiences and those around me. When I listen to most of my songs, they either remind me of something I experienced or someone I know. Sometimes it’s random things I come across.
Your lyrics for I’m Still Here makes people reflect on their life in a positive light! What is the most important aspect of songwriting?
When I’m creating a song, it’s important that it has a message – that someone will learn something or be uplifted by it. It has to make sense to me, and I must feel a connection. If I don’t connect with the song, I know the listener will not connect, too.
What is the biggest misconception about singers?
We are misunderstood on many levels. For example, people think singers/celebrities are reckless, detached, and proud. But, in fact, we are the most sensitive, emotional, and caring beings. People also seem to think its always fun living in the limelight. They visualize money, power, and fame. Yes, it’s fun, but while those things are there, it can get very lonely too, for obvious reasons.
What is your most favorite experience in your career to date?
They are many. But the times I’ve worked with different amazingly talented people from other parts of the world stand out. I’ve got to learn something each time I’ve worked with someone. I’m thankful for those moments. They made me a better artist. Priceless.
List the 5 things you need to have with you on a stage.
Hahaha . . . a bottle of water (room temperature) , a small towel for my face, and a good mic – and I’m good to go.
Do you have any upcoming projects that we haven’t mentioned?
Yes, I have a couple of events coming up. Some here in Uganda, others outside the country. We’ll keep you updated on all my social media platforms. Instagram: Juliana Kanyomozi , Twitter: Jkanyomozi , Facebook: Julianakanyomozi* (with a star at the end) , YouTube: Juliana Kanyomozi.
Complete this sentence, if I had an opportunity to change anything, I would change ___________.
If I had the opportunity to change anything, I’d change the conditions under which women and girls are living. In a world where so many things are evolving everyday, I feel like the woman and girl child have not yet got their fair share in terms of opportunities. While we have a lot of brilliant women doing amazing things, I feel we are not celebrated enough. But a good start would be celebrating ourselves and pulling each other up. Not wait for someone else to do it for us.
Connect with Juliana:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JKanyomozi
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianakanyomozi/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juliana.kanyomozi.79/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcUGS4MnZPfq1NBwgBKNlbQ
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Love you mob my number artist
God bless you in your career