Promising future: Minah Izah is among the newest crop of artistes making a name in the music industry. She has caught the attention of many and with her stunning body and seductive outfits. We talked to the former Obsessions dancer and she shares her music journey and plans.
How would you describe yourself?
I’m a simple, beautiful, religious and charming woman.
When did you start doing music?
In 2012 after university.
How many songs do you have so far and where did you produce them from?
I have about 10, and I did them from different studios; D King’s Studio, Badi Music with Nessim, Zuli Tums, Volume Up, Purple Cord, St Peter Studio and many others.
Tell us about the name Mina Izah.
My real name is Aminah Nakayiza, so I just twisted it a little and came up with Mina Izah.
What inspired you to join the music industry?
Being part of the Obsessions group as a dancer paved way for me to join the industry.
Which Ugandan artiste do you admire and why?
I love Bobi Wine because he is so down to earth, respects people and he is hard working. But most of all, I love and enjoy his music.
What challenges have you faced so far in the music industry?
Music is too expensive in terms of shooting videos, promotion and many other things. It becomes hard for us upcoming artistes to maintain or pursue our dreams because we always perform for free so as to get the recognition.
How would you term your style of music?
My music is a blend of afro beat, dancehall and RnB.
What else do you do besides music?
I own a children’s shop called ‘Mina’s Kids Collection’ in Ntinda where I spend most of my time.
How different are you from other upcoming female artistes?
I believe the kind of music I do is different because no one can sing and do the same style as mine and besides that, my sense of style is different from others’.
Are you signed to any record label?
Yes. I am signed under G Music. They finance my music career, do bookings for performances and interviews as well as ensure that I am on the right track.
Take us through your family and school background?
I am from a religious family, born to the late Muhammad Sekito and the late Mastula Nakimbugwe. I am the second last born. I attended Kimanya Blessed in Masaka for my primary, Kinaawa High School for my secondary. Then I did CCNA at Makerere University and a diploma in information technology in business at UICT Nakawa.
How did you manage without your parents?
I grew up with relatives and they have contributed a lot to my life and music career. They have been so supportive, they appreciate what I do and love my music.
What are your targets in the music industry?
I want to be among the top female artistes in Uganda and I want my music to cut across Africa before it spreads to other places.
Does Ramadhan affect music? We understand your dressing habits have to change and performances are limited.
I cannot complain because for me, religion comes fast. Ramadhan comes a year, so I have to utilise those blessings, and besides there are always no shows during this period. I fast and always do what I am supposed to do.
What are some of your latest projects?
I have just released a song titled Nfukilila, a love song that was done at Volume Up Studio and produced by Zuli Tums. The video will be done by Mirage Concept and it will be released in less than two weeks.
What are some of the songs you have released so far?
Lindazi, Kankuwe, Mutego, Sweetie and Nseko with Khalifa Aganaga, among others.
