Interview: Barbie Wish – A rising singer determined to conquer the Ugandan music industry by all odds

Uganda is a blessed a country with musical talent from all the four corners in the Pearl of Africa. Every now and then, different musicians sprout from everywhere. This apparently means that getting a breakthrough might be a little bit difficult and a tough job.

This however doesn’t mean that one should give up. In fact this is motivation, competing against some of the best.

An underground singer known Nabagerekka Barbra pupolarlas Barbie Wish is one of those looking to make her mark felt on the Ugandan music industry. We sat down with her for an exclusive interview and she told us about herself and her aspirations.

Hello, How’re you?

Barbie Wish: I’m fine thank you. Honored to have me and much appreciated.

So tell us about yourself? Who is Barbie Wish?

Barbie Wish is a Ugandan multi talented RnB singer though she can do different music genres. My real names are Nabagerekka Barbra born 20 years ago in Kakumiro District. I attended St Johns High School Mukono for my education.

How does Barbie Wish join the music Industry- Where did you get the inspiration?

Well I grew up loving music and I always wanted to sing since I was a kid. I would find myself mimicking songs and I would envision a crowd in front of me. Besides, I must say that we have some form of entertainment talent in my family. We have some film actors as well as singers.

Where does Barbie Wish draw her inspiration from and who does she look up to in the music industry?

I draw my creativity from heartbreaks, love and generally the society that I live in. These are what predetermine what I’m going to sing about. In music, I’m a big fan of Eddy Kenzo and Chosen Becky. They are the ones I look up to.

Do you write your own songs or they write for you?

No, I’m a song writer and I write all my songs. That though doesn’t mean that I turn down written songs. If the song is good and I vibe to it and we come to an understanding, then I can take it on.

Music is generally a tough business especially when you’re starting, what are some of the challenges you have encountered along the way so far?

It’s definitely tough especially for the girl child. I fund my own music and this means that I have to juggle both work and music. Literally I have a tough schedule because I barely have time for music during day time since I’m fully at work. Mainly I do music at night.

The other challenge so far has been going to perform. You can make a program with someone as they book you, you get to the venue and they deny you stage time claiming there’s no time. It’s really frustrating and it can derail your confidence but we keep on hustling.

Does your family know that you’re doing music and are they supportive?

Yes they do and some are supportive but some aren’t. But what can I do, it’s my dream and I’m ready to pursue it until I fulfill it. Maybe along the way they will accept and embrace me for who I’m.

How many songs have you released so far?

So far I have two songs out, Kawowo and Side Yo. But I also have more in the kitchen since I’m cooking.

What impact do you want your music to have on the listeners?

I want them to be inspired, heal but more so enjoy and have fun because I do it for them.

You’re a young and beautiful woman- Do you have a man and what do you tell those who hit on you?

Haha no I don’t have a man. At this point, a man is not a priority and he will come in the right time along the way. I’m single and contented. For those that hit on me, I politely tell them no and that I’m married to music. They can wait till I’m ready if they want me.

Where do you see yourself going forward?

In the coming year, I hope to break through and become a mainstream artist. I’m determined to have my songs playing on different mainstream media platforms. That’s why I’m working so hard, to get a breakthrough.

How can those interested in your music and you reach you?

They can follow me on my social media platforms. I go by the names Barbie Wish on Facebook as well as TikTok and Instagram. Please also look up for my music on my YouTube channel, Barbie Wish, watch, like, subscribe as well as share.

What last message would you send out to the public?

Please guys support me and support me. I’m just a simple girl from Kakumiro trying to realize her dreams of creating music and entertaining people. Your support therefore means the whole universe to me.