I’m still looking forward– Kamichi

He is one of the most popular and recognised Afrobeat singers of his era in the country. His music is infectious, portrays life, played with great energy.....and went on to have a successful career with his own as an Afrobeat artiste. Yet one would be forgiven to think that Kamich, real name Adolphe Bagabo has got it all. Kamichi, 26, says that he is not yet satisfied and wants to push his Afrobeat force to new heights.He rose to prominence in 2010 following the release of “Zoubeda”, the song featuring The Ben. He later recorded “Twadushaza” with a group called Hot Side, with members; Platini of Dream Boyz, Rafiki, Big Fizzo, Clevis and Prince Kid. “Komeza obimbwire” was Kamichi’s debut song, which he recorded in 2007 after leaving the group, but the song was released in 2008. Our entertainment contributor Andrew Israel Kazibwe recently had a one-on-one interview with Kamichi. Q: What inspired you to get into music?A: Being alive, joining the church choir and listening to music too – those are the things that inspired me into the music scene.Q: Describe your school life?A: I started Primary school in 1990 at Gitega Primary School and, in 1994 I joined Remera Primary School.I went to many Secondary Schools including; Remera Martyrs Secondary School. I am studying journalism at Catholic Institute of Kabagyi.Q: How did your family react to you joining the music industry?A: My family always supported me, but whenever I misbehaved at school they would blame it on music. [Giggles] - I guess they were right.Q: Any albums?A: I have released so far one album called, “Umugabirwa”, which has 13 songs, including “Zoubeda”, “Aho Ruzingiye” and “Warambeshye”.Q: Do you have collaborations with other artistes?A: Yes. There are many of them, among which include; “Rukuruzi” ft Knowless, “Mama Rwanda” with Fireman, “Zoubeda” featuring The Ben, “Marita” with Elion Victory, and my latest single “Kabimye” featuring Barbra. Q: “Warambeshye’ was nominated and won an award for the Best Video at the recent Salax Awards, how did you react?A: That came as a total surprise to me. I was surprised and excited at the same time. However, considering the efforts and talent we had invested in the shooting and making of the video, I had hoped for a positive reward. But again, I was aware that in a competition there is always a winner and a loser. In this case, I would like to thank all my fans, producer, friends and family for all the support.Q: What is your latest project?A: I have completed my latest video dubbed “Kabimye”, produced by Iba.Q: Who are your role models?A: Surprising my leading role models are not musicians. Top on the list is President Paul Kagame and Manchester United’s Sir Alex Ferguson. The artistes are; Nameless, Dr. Jose Chameleone and Kidum.Q: What challenges have you faced in the music industry? A: The major challenges have been; first, learning and developing the music by myself – since I have never attended any music school. And also sponsoring all my music projects including, gigs, recording songs and shooting videos, which is very expensive.Q: How do you see the music industry in Rwanda?A: I would say that it has improved compared to how it was back in 2008. But a lot still has to be done so as to be the best. Artistes need to work on their vocals, lyrics. Rwandans need to support the local talent through improved competitions and also need to work on achieving better producers. Q: What are some of your achievements in this career?A: Actually, “Zoubeda” was the Song of the Year at the 2011 Salax Awards. My album “Umugabirwa” was also nominated Album of the Year, “Aho Ruzingiye” was also nominated and “Warambeshye” also won Best Video.Q: What are your future prospects?A: I am currently working on improving my ability as a singer. I am also learning on how to use some instruments. And I want to see myself excelling in the region. I also plan to perform in IndiaQ: What is your relationship status?A: I am in a relationship. My girlfriend lives in the US. Q: Any word to your fans?A: I love them so much. They never left me in my journey. I am very lucky that I have them. Because they have made me stronger and wiser, and always stood by my side.

Leisure

I’m still looking forward– Kamichi