By the age of five, Consolée Ruhimbaza was already a singer – being a member of a children church choir. In January this year, her childhood dream came true when she recorded her first single – Komeza Ukine (Keep Playing) and performed for the first time at a concert. She recounted her musical journey to Moses Opobo.

How did you end up in a baby choir?

My mum was a member of the church choir, and I came from a staunch Christian family, so that’s how I ended up in the choir. People used to tell me I had a good voice and that I would be a star one day. This inspired and made me strong. At first I didn’t know I was good but people kept encouraging me.

Tell us about your first song, Komeza Ukine

It’s about guys who cheat on their girlfriends or boyfriends. In the song I’m saying that keep playing but I know that one day you’ll come back to me. It was recorded by producer T Brown at F2K Studios in Nyamirambo. I like singing songs that give a positive message; something that touches everybody. I do Rap, Rn’B, reggae, dancehall… As a new person in the game, I try to do many styles because I’m still starting but maybe one day I will choose one.

Which is your favorite?

I love listening to reggae, because it comes from the heart and usually has a strong message. However when it comes to singing, I prefer Rn’B, I think.

Any other songs apart from the first?

I have two collabos; Supermarket, with MC Tino and Dr. JJ, and Nyandika mu Gitabo, with Engeneer Kibuza.

Any challenges?

The biggest is producers who do not give enough attention to underground artistes. Music is also expensive to do in the beginning, especially for those without sponsorship.

What about music producers and promoters asking for sexual favors?

I believe that whenever you want things in a rush, then you’ll have to part with what people want. Some female upcoming artistes go to studio without a song or money but yet they want a producer to make for them a hit.

Personally I believe in talent so I don’t always insist or nag producers.

Which person do you look up to musically?

Beyonce and the late Lucky Dube. I like Beyonce because she is a strong woman who works very hard and she is so good on stage. For Lucky Dube it’s the voice and the message.

How do you come up with your songs?

Funny thing is that I don’t write. I may just write down the title or the chorus, then I start practicing and building the song. I just convey the emotions I have at the moment.

If you were not a musician …

My second love after music is movie acting. God willing, I wish to do both.

If a fan asked you for love?

Love is based on feelings, so it’s not just about asking. My principle is that I love all my fans equally, I love them back for loving me.