Dreams and ambition

Having released his latest song with Ulopa, local rapper DNA promises an album with a difference. He talks to CAROLINE NYANGA about his music, personal life and the reason he left Jomino

Pulse: Why did you leave Jomino?

DNA: I wanted to spread my wings and try a different route with music. Working with different producers will make my music unique and versatile.

P: Are you saying it had nothing to do with you and producer Steve having beef?

DNA: I believe it is a section of people including the media that made it look like we had beef. On the contrary Steve and I share a mutual working relationship besides being long time pals and former schoolmates at Patch (Nairobi School).

P: Is it true that you broke up with your girlfriend after hearing a rumour that she was also involved with a P-unit member?

DNA: Like I said, earlier there comes a time when one has got to move on with their lives. Our break-up had nothing to do with any P-unit member. All I heard from a friend was that she and Gabu were good friends and nothing more to it.

P: Are you seeing anyone at the moment?

DNA: No, I am single. I want to concentrate on my career first. Other things will follow in later.

P: The Una collabo brought beef between you and P-unit. What was the cause of the problem?

DNA, Kenyan rapper.

DNA: The song Una is actually a P-unit song featuring DNA, recorded at Jomino. The problem, however, arose when the video was shot and the credit given to me. It actually implied that I owned the song and it featured P-unit. We managed to resolve our issues.

P: Is it true that your sister, who played the role of a sales and marketing person for P-unit pulled out as a result of this the problem?

DNA: I don’t agree with that statement. But you may go ahead and ask her all the same. All I know is that she is doing something with Bon Eyes. (When consulted his sister denied having any involvement with P-unit.)

P: A local promoter in Busia once accused you of skipping a scheduled event after receiving down payment?

DNA: Why would I con anybody for heaven’s sake! I believe people will always have something negative to say about you once you are in the limelight.

P: We hear you have a new project, tell us more about it?

DNA: It’s a song dubbed Let’s Go with producer cum musician Ulopa. The video is not yet out yet. I am still trying to figure out what direction my music is headed.

P: Is that why you have been quiet?

DNA: Not really. I have a couple of songs that I intend to compile in my album. I also plan on working with Mandugu Digital. For now fans can download my music for free at getmziki. com

P: There has been talk of a new website, what are you doing differently?

DNA: It’s called Banjuka.com. I am focussing more on events. I believe that after leaving Jomino most of my fans were left wondering how to get my new music and me.

P: Aside from music what else do you do?

DNA: I am involved in a number of businesses. My business partners and I own a Graphics and IT company, Digitall definition.com. It is in operation in various towns within the country. I also work as an IT manager for a company named Design by Angeline.

P: There was a time when you missed your flight from Dubai apparently because you had consumed too much alcohol and overslept as a result?

DNA: That is quite untrue. I recall having two shows in Dubai during Easter, which turned out well. I, however, missed my flight to Kenya not because I overslept or consumed alcohol. The truth is, it was my first visit and I had trouble finding my way to the airport on time.

P: Speaking of fame do you think Genge rapper Jua Cali is worth all the hype he gets more than you and Genges godfather Nonini?

DNA: I think he has worked real hard to be where he is today. However, I feel the media needs to stand by most upcoming talent by giving them coverage especially when they are doing something good. In other words Nonini and myself need your support more. On the other hand corporate companies should consider going beyond a few individuals.

P: Who, in your opinion, is the biggest local artiste at the moment?

DNA: It’s definitely Daddy Owen. His music is all over the place.

P: With many upcoming artistes storming the scene are you scared they might steal the limelight away from you?

DNA: Singer Amani once said something during one of her interviews and I quote. In her words she urged musicians to avoid competing against each other and instead aim at releasing good music that will boost the industry. Besides, I don’t think there is any one person who can come and take away my fans that easily. Nevertheless, there are those upcoming artistes who come in with a bang — instilling some fear in us.

P: Why do you think a section of people once labelled you as a one-hit-wonder?

DNA: Hiyo ni mdomo tu! The problem with them is that they expect me to release a song similar to Banjuka, which is out of the question. I have many others songs that are doing well abroad — particularly in Australia — one being Kama Kawaida.

P: Is that why you quit Catholic University when your song Banjuka became big?

DNA: I left campus before the song was released. I however, intend to go back to school because it’s something that means a lot to me.