Focus: “Music is my greatest passion” – Producer of the Year ’08 winner

Uwayezu Jacques a.k.a Dr. Jacques is arguably Rwanda’s best music producer. He was voted best producer in the just concluded Salax music awards. Bryan Kimenyi chatted with the 27 year old and asked him about his work and how it feels to be looked at as the best producer the country has. How does it feel, being voted best Producer 2008? It’s very hard to explain how good it is to be recognized as the best Producer. These awards brought happiness and excitement to my life but above all gave me the belief that I can be a greater person in this industry. It’s an appreciation from listeners and musicians across the country. I feel so good. Were you expecting to win? I wasn’t so sure because I was competing with men like Nicola, who are just as good. However I knew I’d done enough work in 2008 and credited the award. What is the secret behind your success? There is no secret. I only do what I do with all my heart, soul and mind and make sure that my clients leave contented. Was it your first award? Yes it was, though I’ve been recognized by certain institutions before. Did you cry? I don’t break down so easy, but as a matter of fact, this was one of the happiest nights of my life. What plans do you have for this year? After getting this year’s award, I plan to get the one of next year. I also want to embark on promoting raw talents across the country because Rwanda has a lot of musicians who only need discovering. Film making isn’t an easy venture, but I plan to give it a shot some time this year. You are also a musician (Abakimaze group), how do you mix the two? Music is my greatest passion; it doesn’t matter whether I’m producing music or singing, I love everything about music. However I have to admit that music production is now my favourite. What song is playing on your phone? It’s Nyumbani of Mowzey and Viboyo. It occupies my ears when I’m not in the studio. Who is that lucky person in your life? There is someone I’m with, but she comes after the work I do. Work is my first love. Why the name Dr. Jacques? One of my earlier clients began it after I’d produced his Album. I then decided to keep it, because I didn’t have a nickname like my peers in the industry. Ends