Sheebah Karungi, one of the biggest stars in East African music, is back in Kigali, and she’s ready to set the stage on fire. But behind the dazzling performances and iconic fashion, she told The New Times that there is a side of her most fans don’t know, a side that prefers quiet moments in her favourite ‘dira’ (long, free-form dress) over the spotlight. Despite her fierce on-stage persona, the real Sheebah is surprisingly down-to-earth. “When I am off stage, I’m nothing like the person you see performing, I love wearing diras. I am all about comfort. I do not like makeup, I do not like dressing up, I am just a simple girl at heart,” she said. ALSO READ: What does Sheebah Karungi have lined up before Saturday show? “On stage, I become a powerhouse; bold, fearless, and larger than life and in great sexy outfits. But off stage, I am just a villager at heart, enjoying the quiet moments with my dogs, plants, and a good TV series. Dressing up is not fun for me, it is work. Since I was 14, dressing up has always been about preparing for work, and that has not changed so I do not like it in my free time.” @newtimesrwanda #Uganda's Sheebah Karungi, one of the most renowned female musicians in the region, spoke to #The #New #Times ahead of her awaited performance in Kigali on Saturday. Catch full interview soon on our YouTube channel — The New Times Rwanda. #Viral #ViralVideo #Trending #TrendingVideo #Music #Rwanda #rwandatiktok original sound - The New Times (Rwanda) Sheebah’s journey from the gritty streets of Kawempe, Uganda, to the glimmering lights of the African music scene is nothing short of legendary. Known for her powerful performances and unapologetic style, Sheebah returns to Kigali, bringing with her not just new music, but new entirely vibes. “The last time I was here, I performed with Kizz Daniels, and the energy was electric. But this time, I am bringing something even bigger, new vibes, fresh dancers, and brand-new songs. I am set to make waves in Rwanda's music scene, and I know my fans are going to love every moment of it. I’ve got so much in store for those who turn up!” Reflecting on Rwanda’s music scene, Sheebah has noticed some differences from her home turf—with the Rwandan music industry growing, but not as active or competitive as Uganda. “Rwanda has fewer concerts, but that means when there is one, everyone shows up. I think it is time for Rwandan artistes to step out, collaborate more with other East African artistes, and bring that energy back home,” Sheebah advised, hinting at exciting future collaborations with Rwandan artistes. “I am collaborating with two Rwandan singers, a male, and a female, but I will not reveal the artistes now. I think Rwanda is growing in the music business and with young artistes more than before. Probably next year people can expect these songs, we want to take our time, do something good, shoot videos, make sure we give our fans something they are going to enjoy,” she said. Sheebah who is not just a musician but also the founder of a sanitary pad company that provides affordable pads to girls in Uganda, and her NGO, Sheebah Cares, is changing lives. ALSO READ: Who are the Rwandan celebrities nominated for East Africa Arts Entertainment Awards 2024 “Honestly speaking, everything I am, everything I have, I’ve gotten from the music industry and I am grateful for the platform that has allowed me to give back to my community, and I will still give out even more through my newly founded music label, Karma Music. I am nurturing the next generation of Ugandan artistes, ensuring that my legacy will live on through them,” she explained. For young artistes looking up to her, Sheebah has some advice: “Be patient, believe in God, and never give up. The industry is tough, especially for women, but if you stick to your values and keep pushing, you can achieve anything.” Sheebah revealed what she misses most about Kigali when she is away, the simple pleasures that make the city special. From the distinctive flavours of Rwandan sausages to the peaceful, quiet streets, Kigali holds a unique charm that she craves. “The one thing I always miss about Rwanda when I am back in Uganda is the Rwandan sausages. They are big, spicy, and just irresistible. I had one yesterday, another today, and I am definitely having more. But it is not just the food, it is the calmness and quietness here. In Uganda, everything is so loud and fast. Sometimes, I just crave the slow pace and the peace you find on the roads in Kigali.” As Sheebah gears up to wow Kigali once again, she leaves us with a reminder that the woman behind the music is just as remarkable as the superstar on stage. And as she said with a smile, “This is just the beginning.”
