Gospel artiste, Alice Kamande, talks about her life and music career

How old are you?

I am in my late 20s.

When did you get your first big break in the music industry?

In 2009 when I released my first song Wewe pekee.

You have been very quiet. What’s up?

Not really. I have just kept away from too much media exposure but my songs are still playing everywhere. My song Sambaza is my most recent single and I thank God that it has been well received. I am working on a new album and a few videos.

What do you love most about being a woman?

I love the fact that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. As a woman, I am a fragile being yet strong enough to withstand a lot of pressure.

Are you a feminist or a traditionalist?

Instead, I am a little bit of both. I believe women should get equal rights and opportunities just like men, but I am also a traditionalist when it comes to moral standards.

What was your biggest insecurity growing up?

When I was young, my sisters would always tease me because of my complexion. All my sisters are light skinned. I have since learnt that chocolate skin is equally beautiful.

What do you believe is your best quality?

My love for God, I am allowed to boast about it. No one can take His place in my life.

What is your most annoying habit?

I can be very playful at times when I am full of energy.

You always look stunning, plus you have a nice figure; what is your secret?

Thank you for the compliments. I appreciate good health habits, like eating a well-balanced diet and I recently cut down on junk foods. I also drink lots of water and I exercise.

How do you handle the pressure of being a public figure?

Being in the limelight is a huge challenge because you always feel like you are under a microscope. However, I keep in mind that I am a product of God’s grace and I try to live responsibly because I represent the kingdom.

What do you do for ‘me time’?

I love dancing, taking a walk while meditating, jogging and reading.

What one thing don’t a lot of people know about you?

I am shy.

What was your childhood nickname?

I had several in primary school. Guys used to call me ‘artist’ because I used to draw. In high school, my friends used to call me Kamash short form of Kamande.

Is it harder to date when you are a famous gospel artiste?

Yes it is because a lot of people have big expectations of you and you can get a lot of scrutiny.

What is your biggest pet peeve about the men in the Nairobi dating scene?

Guys need to be a little more gentlemanly and treat women with respect. They also need to work hard and never rely on the woman financially. It is biblical that a man should be the provider. By the way, I do not mean all Nairobi men are like that, but just a few observations.

 What do you know now about dating that you wish someone had told you when you were younger?

Always give a man space to be himself, learn about a man individually and that they are not all the same.

Apart from music, what are your other talents?

I am a dancer, I make jewellery plus I am a fashion designer.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I totally rely on God in every step of my life, but I hope to grow bigger and better in music.