It’s not every day that a celebrity goes on social media to announce that she is broke. That’s what Gloria Macheo, a popular rapper commonly known as Xtatic, did. This was hardly a year after she lost her mother to cancer. She spoke to Cake Mukei about her plans to rise again
You recently posted online that you were being auctioned. What happened?
I was unable to pay my debts and had to leave all the property in my house. I called the auctioneers a day before my deadline, packed a few clothes for my daughter and I and moved out. It was a very calm situation. No drama.
You seem too composed for a person who recently lost most of her property...
That’s because this isn’t the first time this has happened to me. After high school, I worked as a hairdresser and washed people’s clothes to earn a living for my daughter and I. I have been through a lot.
Wow! How did this happen and where did you get the accent then?
I really don’t want to talk about my tribulations back then, but I must admit that it was rough. I always wanted to be a multi-accented comedian. I taught myself how to speak in different accents and while at it, I perfected the way I speak English.
How did you find yourself in this situation?
First, being signed to Sony Music label stalled my career. As a company based oversees, they were not prioritising my career. Taking care of my two siblings and daughter at the same time also contributed a bit to my woes, but I will be fine. You know after my mother’s death, I had more responsibilities.
When did Sony approach you and how did this make you feel? I was approached on April 19, 2012. I was very excited because I thought they would take my career to the next level. As an international outfit, that was their responsibility anyway.
What is the greatest lesson you’ve learnt from this?
I don’t regret being signed up Sony. It taught me a lot of patience and made me improve my attitude. It helped me network especially around Africa. South Africans actually know and recognise my music.
You didn’t really talk about your mother’s illness until she died. Were you aware she was sick?
I knew all along that she was sick. She bravely fought the cancer for a whole year. My grandmother and aunties were providing for her and taking her to hospital.
What type of cancer was she suffering from?
I’m not ready to talk about that
What is it that you miss the most about her?
Her warmth. She made everyone happy whenever she got into a room.
How old are your siblings and how are you managing to take them to school?
My brother is in campus and working, while my youngest sister is still in high school.
Where are your relatives?
We are not really close and we don’t even know some of them. You can’t just show up after a very long time and expect people to help you. That would be unfair to them.
How about your boyfriend?
He is trying his best, but you don’t expect me to bombard him with all my burdens. He is a boyfriend, not a money maker. Besides, he also has his own responsibilities. I’m also not the type of girl who moves in with a man before marriage. I might stay with him for a few months as I get everything in order, but I will be fine very soon.
Most celebrities would never open up like you did. What inspired you?
First of all, so we are clear, this was not a cry for pity, but rather to inspire people. It’s part of being human. I wanted my fans to know that it’s okay to be down sometimes. It’s also good to talk about your problems. To have a release.
What are you doing to get back on your feet?
Apart from my music, I also work online. I did online forex last year and I will still find something to do.