Vinka: Uganda’s Dancehall Queen Shaping Her Musical Legacy

Ugandan artist Vinka has risen from backup dancer to prominent singer, known for her energetic dance tracks. Her journey at Swangz Avenue led her to major hits, including “Sirubala” and collaborations, aiming for broader recognition. Vinka emphasizes the importance of her music’s vibrancy, reflects on balancing motherhood with her career, and plans to release more singles and collaborations moving forward.

Vinka, a rising star in Uganda’s music scene, has transitioned from backup dancer to chart-topping artist with high-energy dance hits. Music is more than a profession for her; it is a calling propelled by her love for dance. Initially a backup dancer for prominent artists, Vinka eventually moved into artist management at Swangz Avenue, where her talent was recognized by label founders Benon Mugumbya and Julius Kyazze, who encouraged her to perform on stage.

At Swangz Avenue, Vinka has established her presence with popular tracks such as “All Over You” and “Batulele.” Her primary aim is to make people dance. She describes her music as vibrant and dance-inducing, stating, “A Vinka song has to have a lot of vibe — something that makes you want to move. I love to dance, and my music reflects that,” as she continues to release captivating singles like “Sirubala.”

The song “Sirubala” translates to “I do not count that day” and highlights the longing for a loved one. Vinka emphasizes that her career has entered an exciting phase where she no longer feels the need to constantly prove herself. With a growing fan base, she aspires for broader recognition across East African and global markets.

Vinka expresses openness to collaborations across genres, including potential projects with Tanzanian artists Zuchu and Diamond Platinumz, as well as Kenyan musician Bien. She recounts the serendipitous moment when her boss at Swangz Avenue suggested she become the artist, despite initially thinking it was a joke. Her background in music and drama positioned her well for this transition.

Reflecting on motherhood and her career, Vinka shared her experience of having a baby during the COVID-19 pandemic, where she was not active in performing or releasing music. She credits a supportive partner as crucial for balancing her roles as a mother and an artist. Despite the challenges, she remains motivated and plans to continue releasing singles and collaborations without a full album in the immediate future.

Vinka has successfully made her mark in Uganda’s music industry, transitioning from a backup dancer to an acclaimed artist known for her high-energy tracks. Her latest releases reflect her passion for dance and commitment to her audience. With aspirations for global recognition and a dedication to collaborating across genres, Vinka balances her artistic career with motherhood, showcasing resilience and ambition. As she continues to evolve, her fans can eagerly anticipate new music that embodies her vibrant spirit.

Original Source: www.okayafrica.com