Pre-performance rituals

Whether by prayer, meditation or even voodoo-like preparation, artistes are known to engage in all sorts of rituals before performance. CAROLINE NYANGA explores

Nonini:

Remember the little Zebra carving Nonini and P-Unit carried to their concerts throughout last year? Well, many were fooled to believe that the little Zebra had a ritual significance.

"Contrary to what people may think, the truth is, and we were just doing it for fun and to get people talking."

Nonini explains that he likes to be left alone in a bid to meditate and say a word of prayer before bringing the roof down.

"The moment I get on stage things always seem to work out well for me," he notes

Daddy Owen:

Crowned one of the best singers in Africa after winning an MTV Award last year, Daddy Owen believes in the power of prayer before his show. "In a situation where several artistes are lined-up for the event, I make sure I watch keenly the performance of the artistes before me in order toa better my act," he says.

Amani

The Mama Milka hit maker has a habit of chatting with anyone close to him before going on stage so as to unnerve himself.

"This unnerves and somehow removes the fear and butterflies from my system enabling me to deliver a good performance. Occasionally, I say a prayer before going onto the stage," he remarks

Lady Bee:

She believes in getting herself composed and relaxed before getting on stage. As a result she stays sober. But as we know her, Lady Bee also likes ‘charging up’ before she hits the podium. "Sometimes I get worked up and become restless," she admits. During such moments, a bottle of her favourite drink works for her.

Cannibal:

Cites prayer as a vital element for him before getting on stage. "It’s my usual routine. Unlike others I have never experienced stagefright and hence I do not need to do anything to boost my morale before stepping on stage.

Abbas:

I have a habit of meditating besides miming rhymes to myself. This keeps me focused all through and is able to thrill fans fully. I can spit rhymes according to the situation at the moment and beyond.