MELODIOUS: A-Pass is a fresh artiste in the dancehall game thanks to the success his debut track Tetubatya and Am Loving, his collabo with Cindy and Don Mc, are receiving. He meets his fan Betty Amungu, a YMCA tourism and travel student.
Hi A-Pass. When did you start doing music?
Surprisingly, many people out there think I am a new artiste, but I started music back in 2003 when I was in S.1.
You look young. How old are you?
I’m 25 and yes people say I don’t look my age.
What is the best song from you?
I have too many good songs and I find it difficult to choose the best, but I would consider Life to be at the top. It hasn’t yet been released though. I consider it the best because it talks about the general views of life.
How many songs do you have?
I have so many that it wouldn’t sound nice to the readers and fans if I mentioned the number.
What schools did you attend?
I went to Nakasero Primary school, Maryland Secondary school, St. Lawrence and then did IT at Makerere University for a year, then left the course to pursue my musical dream.
Why didn’t you finish the course?
I was just wasting time. Instead of writing notes in the lecture room, I was writing songs.
What is your religion?
I’m a Christian but not under any specific religion.
What is your driving force?
I’m addicted to singing and writing. That’s what drives me.
Which studios do you use?
I have my own studio called Badi Music Production. It’s located at my place in Makindye, so all the music I’ve so far done is from that studio. Every free minute I get, I record.
But the name of your studio sounds like another studio called Buddies. What is the difference?
My studio is located in a different place and it has a different output.
Are you signed to any record label?
Yes. I’m under Llolypop Entertainment.
Why that record label?
Those guys believe in me and they are my friends as well.
What are your hobbies?
I like watching movies and listening to nice music.
Why did you choose to use A-Pass for a stage name?
Back in high school, I had a friend called Passy who used to look after me and when he finished school, other students passed over the name to me so I decided to shorten it to Pass and the A comes from my real name Alexander Begonza.
Who mentored you?
Bashir Lukyamuzi of Badi Films. He resurrected the artiste in me when I had given up and he has always been there for me.
You got recognition with your hit Tebubatya. How did you come up with it?
Well, it’s a crazy song that I did in 20 minutes. I remember I was downloading videos and came across a catchy beat so I decided to e-mail the producer (Black Spyder) to allow me use it and he gladly accepted, so because of my excitement, I straight away hit the studio and did the song.
What other songs do you have?
Very many. A-Pass killer, Love Infection, So High, Number One, So Loud, Am Loving, which also has a remix with Cindy and Don Mc, Listen To The Voice, Muliwa, Why On Time and K’la among others.
Tell us about your family background?
I was born to Mr and Ms Mutabazi. I’m the second born of six children and the only one doing music, but I have a little sister on the way. So, embrace her when the right time comes. (laughs).
What is your message to upcoming artists?
Stay humble, look at your craft carefully and lastly be original and unique.
-Isaac Ssejjombwe
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