One-on-one with amazing Amileena

By Shirley Genga

Pulse: Can you clear the air on you dating a big shot?
Amileena: I am dating someone. And yes, that is all you will get from me (laughs).

Amileena Mwenesi, former TPF finalist.

What have you been up to since your Tusker Project Fame days last year?
I took a break in order to reflect and find myself. I did not want to rush into making an album until I was ready. I began to work on my album early this year.

You have released two singles this year, Hodi and Shine. What is the inspiration behind the two songs?
The song Shine is an expression of happiness. It is a celebration of the fact that I am finally doing what I love, which is music. Hodi is a song I collaborated with Collo .The song is about love and relationships and focuses on a man asking for permission to court a woman. I really enjoyed working with Collo.

What is the name of your upcoming album and when can we expect it?
It is called Happiness. I want my music to bring joy and to evoke emotion. I am hoping to have it ready early next year.

What sound can we expect out of your upcoming album?
I do not want to put myself in a box creatively. I want my sound to be diverse and universal. It will range from hip-hop to afro fusion and rock with a little classical.

Which producer are you working with?
I am working with R-Kay, Musyoka, Asha from Zari, Jonah Uzele and Ogapa DJs. I love the unique and diverse sounds they all create.

Apart from Collo, which other artistes would you like to collaborate with?
I would love to work with Sauti Sol and maybe cross over and work with an artiste from Nigeria and Tanzania.

Is it true that you didn’t grow up in Kenya?
I was born in Kenya but I also got to live in South Africa and the United States. I am the middle child and have two brothers. As a result of growing up with boys only, I was quite the tomboy growing up. For my high school I went to British International College, Jo’burg. Afterwards I studied Hospitality and Operation Management at the International Hotel School in South Africa and graduated in 2009. My heart has always been in music but in this life it is important to have a back-up plan.

Apart from music do you have any other hidden talents?
A: I am good at acting and if I got the chance to act I would take it.