Maurice Kirya is a Ugandan musician and actor. The multiple award winning artiste is in Kigali for the 5th edition of the Jazz Junction at Serena tonight. He holds multiple accolades including the RFI Award (France), E-World Music Awards (LA), Museke Music Awards (New York), KORA Award and KISIMA Awards. He spoke to Nasra Bishumba.

You were recently here to entertain the CHAN tournament officials. Barely a month later, you are back. This is unusual, especially in Rwanda. What do you think sets you apart from other artistes?

I think I have been very blessed to have this much love in Rwanda, they keep calling me back, and the least I can do is to give my very best every time I am on stage in Rwanda.

What’s your typical songwriting process?

My process is very unpredictable even to myself, but I like to picture the story first, kind of like putting myself into that position mentally before I sing or write about it!

You won the Radio France International Discovery award then went on a 37 country tour, how defining was that career-wise?

To be able to relate with a new audience is always humbling because you get to learn new approaches to your craft. Every country reacts differently to music and being on tour teaches you how to read these emotions.

How do you prepare for a concert? Do you have any sort of pre-show ritual?

I do prepare a lot actually, physically and mentally, from going through the stage script, to being aware of all technical issues, people pay a lot of money for this and I never want to waste anyone’s money by not being prepared.

If there was one thing that you would change about how music business is done in Africa, what would it be and why?

I wouldn’t change a thing actually.

If you were to work with a Rwandan artiste, who would it be and why?

I have not quite had a chance to listen to enough Rwandan music but I know I would like to work with some of the biggest Rwandan artistes.

The big question for female fans — what is your relationship status?

People think I came to perform; I am actually here to look for a Rwandan girlfriend! (Laughs)

What should your fans expect at the Jazz Junction?

As always, I give my very best, and I can’t wait to party with everyone.

What’s up next for you? Do you have any new songs in the works?

I am about to release a new album, and also, I have some big roles in two Hollywood movies that are about to be released.

If you were not a singer today, what would you be?

An athlete.

Finally, how do you want to be remembered?

Now you sound like you want to kill me. (Laughs)

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