Singer Tamba shot to fame as one of the vocalists in Qwela Band. Even after going solo, her Tamba Live shows are rocking Kampala. Rebecca Nalunga caught up with her
Q: You are beautiful and undoubtedly have many admirers. How do you handle all the attention?
A: You have to be mentally prepared for that when you get into the music world. I have a number of tricks up my sleeve, which I will not reveal because then, they will be rendered powerless. One I do not mind sharing is that I try to never be alone. I surround myself with my friends at all times.
Do fans ask for your contacts?
Yes and I give them my facebook and twitter accounts. As for my phone number, it is easily accessed; that I have no control over.
As the only girl among your siblings, how easy is it for a guy to date you?
My brothers gauge and judge a guy really fast, whether or not he is good for me. If they say he is not, I do not date him.
So, do you have a love life?
A wonderful one! I am with someone I have always dreamed of being with.
Who is the lucky guy?
I prefer keeping him annonymous for now.
What attracted you to him?
He is very secure, a lover of music, humorous, kind and not easily threatened by my kind of life.
And what kind of life is this?
One full of spontaneity, with many music gigs and fans to attend to.
Why haven’t you composed or sang a Uganda jubilee song?
Is it too late? I can come up with one.
Is it true that you split from Qwela band because they could not manage your talent?
No. Both the band and I grew to a point where we were heading in different directions. After the split in 2010, I worked on one project with them and I am still friends with the members.
Why do you choose to present in uptown venues?
My musical style is Afro fusion. I sing in English and Runyankore. If I sing in the village, people will sing along, if I sing in uptown venues, people will do the same. The audience in-between does not really appreciate my mellow style.
Why don’t you wear makeup?
I am lazy at making up. Unless someone insists I wear it and they have it in their bag, I couldn’t be bothered. I recently, bought a small set with red lipstick, compact powder and eye shadow which I occasionally apply before I go on stage. I fear eye-pencil because it feels like someone is writing in my eye.
And the one thing you hate?
I hate shoes, and only wear them because I must. My feet are narrow with long toes and it is such a bother getting shoes that fit comfortably.
