By FRANKLINE OKUTOYI

Peter Gatonye Ngugi, better known as Pilipili, ventured into serious music in 2000 upon completion of his O-level education. He recorded his first song Nampenda in 2003.

The same year, he also released Papasa and Kamata Dem featuring Jua Cali.

In 2005, he recorded the hit song, Morale, that saw him nominated in the Chaguo la Teeniez as well as Kisima Awards. This year, he was nominated in three categories in the Groove Awards. These were the Best Collaboration of the Year, Best Song and the Best Discography Achievements of the Year and he won all of them.

His advice to you? Set a target for yourself, respect everyone and believe in God. He answered questions of pupils from Waithaka Riverside School, Dagoretti.

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Ann Wanjiku, ten years old

Which type of music pays musicians a lot? Why did you choose rap?

Pilipili: All music pays well as long as it has a following. Followers translate into income and, therefore, there isn’t a specific genre of music that attracts more income than the other. I chose rap music because I like associating with teenagers who like that music.

Michael Nakwekwe, eleven years old

What is good about being a musician? Who is your favourite musician and why?

Pipili: Being a musician enables you to communicate and pass information to others through songs. I like Alaine and Eric Wainaina. I like Eric perhaps because he stands out from the rest of us and his music is always fresh.

Churchill Muthiani, ten years old

Why do many Kenyan male musicians like wearing baggy jeans, expensive earrings and necklaces? How was your feeling during your first mass concert?

Pilipili: It is because fans expect them to dress that way to reflect their job. Just like others working in offices, I think wearing in that manner reflects their trade. I believe it gives an impression of one being an entertainer. I was nervous when I sang before big crowd for the first time.

Emmah Wambani, ten years old

Apart from music, what else would you like to do to earn a living? What is the right age for someone to become a professional artiste?

Pilipili: My other passion will have to be business, and I have therefore, invested money earned through music. I would advise anyone to invest while still at the top because music is like a temporary job. One can earn a lot in a short period. You can turn professional at any age as long as it does not distract you from your education.