I want to be a legend - Queen Cha

Mugemana Yvonne’s name may not readily ring a bell, but the songstress has been around for quite some time. In 2012, the singer, whose stage name is Queen Cha, released her debut album Umwe Rukumbi featuring rapper, Riderman, which is currently enjoying airplay. This sultry singer tells The New Times’ Linda M. Kagire about her career and aspirations.TNT: What made you think music is the best for you?QC: I started singing at a very young age. I used to sing everywhere, even in church. My ultimate dream was to become a legendary artiste, though I didn’t know what music genre I wanted.When I became older, I realised that I had the talent. There were possibilities as the Rwandan music industry was growing – and I wanted to grow with it. So, I decided to make good use of the opportunities. Music is actually the best way for me to communicate with the world - to tell my story and be heard.TNT: What kind of music are you into?QC: Mostly R&B, though sometimes I try a hand at Pop and Afro Beat. I am sultry, smooth, open and honest, and I always leave fans asking for more. My musical influences range from legendary artistes like Brandy and Whitney Houston (RIP).TNT: How about your lyrical contents?QC: I have amazing stories to tell from both personal and day to day experiences. Some of my lyrics are a result of rocky relationships. I realised that theres something to learn every day. TNT: What do you hope to do other than music?QC: I am in my third year, pursing a degree in biology (zoology) at the National University of Rwanda (NUR). However, I noticed that my passion for music grows deeper and I think that after graduating, I will concentrate on music before doing my Masters. I will either work in a laboratory or in a game park. TNT: How many songs do you have already?QC: I have five songs already out but I cannot promise that I will have an album in two months. I may consider doing that when the time is right. Right now, Im focusing on releasing singles and developing my debut album till more people get to know me. If all goes as planned, we could launch it before the end of this year.TNT: Who would you like to collaborate with in Rwanda?QC: I really, really love Cécile Kayirebwa and I wish I could get the chance to work or share the same stage with her. Kayirebwa is a brilliant and talented musician. I draw my inspiration from her.TNT: Tell us a bit more about your backgroundQC: I was born in 1991 in Muhanga, Southern Province to Charles Mugemana and Adeline Nyiraneza (RIP mum). I am the oldest in a family of three children but one of my siblings passed on. I spent most of my childhood and adult years in Kigali. I completed Primary School at Ecole Primaire de ESCAF in Nyamirambo, a suburb of Kigali City and Secondary at Groupe Scolaire Officiel de Butare. I started my musical journey when I was a child and tried out singing every chance I got.

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I want to be a legend - Queen Cha