In Uganda, we find very many male talented rap artistes like GNL Zamba, Navio, Big Trill and several others. However, there are quite a number of female artistes who are doing serious rap at the highest level.
Within Africa, Uganda stands out as an industry with a rich and far-reaching legacy of women in hip-hop. Even as the musical landscape (like in most arenas) in the 256 is still disproportionately influenced by male voices, with each generation since the turn of the century, there have been prominent female voices helping shape the prevailing sounds in the nation.
Hip-Hop is significant as a medium because of the spirit of defiance and radical individuality that is at its core. It is an avenue through which Ugandan women have been lauded and uplifted for speaking and acting in ways that were outside rigid traditional notions of femininity.
Now, rising female rapper VkayCee has released numerous songs. She is one of Uganda’s illest Femcees whose music contains clever allegories, pleasantry, humour and immense punchlines. She talked to us about her career so far.
1 – How did the journey with music start?
Music has been apart of my life for like forever but the starting point was mainly when I used to mime songs at home on our karaoke mic and I would go for competitions at garden city & some rap battles so I guess winning those competitions made me realize I was destined for music,
2 – What was the trigger point made you decide to get into music especially rap music/hiphop?
I was rapping for quite a long time but mostly school battles so the first time I took on a big stage was in 2015 at high school kadanke. Winning that competition made me decide and realise that I could make a career out of this
3 – What and who are your musical influences?
My momma ,Patricia Upendo is my musical influence she is a musician too, the very first person took me to studio to record, I had little interests in recording, she pushed me.
4 – If you were not a rapper what would you have been and why?
Actress/ Radio or TV presenter cause I love the media and let’s say it’s another passion of mine, still want to do it by the way.
5- What is your suggestions for the female newcomers doing hip-hop?
I say stick to your true self, and remember this dream is yours and not anyone else’s. Don’t let them influence you Queen , you are the influencer
6- What would be your dream collaboration?
That is a broad question cause I have quite a few but the all time dream would be The Weeknd.
7- Have you ever gone through music writer’s
block?
Yes, during the pandemic, there was a lot of external factors and I couldn’t find the mental strength to write.
8- Who are your most favorite rappers of all time in Uganda?
Keko, GNL, The Mith & Mun G
9-What are you planning to release for your fans before this year ends? Or next year….
There’s been quite some silence but am cooking and all I can say is just watch the space not so long from now am releasing a fire tune. Will keep ya’ll posted
10. Any anticipation for an album this year?
Yes, there’s an album in the kitchen.
11. Challenges so far for being a female rapper?
Everybody suddenly becomes a critic & apparently knows what’s best for me!, Tryna dictate how I should dress & act mbu show some skin & be slutty but my music is not directed to alluring men my music is good music I should be identified by music not by how much skin i show & how many men are attracted to me.
12. Biggest and memorable stage performances you`ve done so far?
Ug hip hop awards , I did perform but the 2015 high school kadanke is most memorable, I wasn’t ready for it but i randomly took on 15big boys in an abrupt battle.
13. Your favourite song to perform to your audience?
Dagala, it’s a catchy song and the audience really has fun with the song
14. Your Top ranked rappers in Africa?
Keko ,Khaligraph Jones ,The Mith ,Gnl , the late Aka
15. What is the most trouble you`ve ever gotten into?
I got detained at a police for not paying Uber
16. Best advice you`ve been given as far as your music career is concerned?
Do the music you love and don’t stop being you, the world will adjust.
The sky is too big for all stars to shine.
17. If you could change anything about Ug`s rap industry, what would it be?
Ug’s rap is underrated so I would like to make it more recognized by influencing collaborations out of the genre , if only the ugandan artists also choose to push each other to the top instead of pointless beef , we have alot of work to do we are limiting our potential.
18. Your breath control is crazy, what artists did you model your flow off of? What exercises did you use to get there?
Nicki & Eminem plus Busta, I used to be the fastest around I just slowed down so that we hear the message ,haha I work out I’m a little fit , i also play ball.
19-Are you a relationship anarchist or do you have a main person?
I donno nokudono
20- Message to your fans?
Thanks for loving Vkaycee and Vkaycee music. I have quite alot in store and I know your going to enjoy everything am cooking for you, & this time when i start we not stopping, I love you guys so much.
