Interview: Yvonne Mwale Shares Insights on Her Musical Journey

Congratulation on you latest single “Uka Ukalilele?”! What was the inspiration behind the single?
I’ve seen a number of my former friends attaching themselves to sugar daddies and later falling down. With this song I want to make a statement and encourage young ladies to become responsible for themselves and do something productive for their future. And I’m grateful, that Slapdee is sharing this view with me and agreed to join on this track.

What does music mean to you?
As a full-time musician, music is my life. Since I’m 18 years old music makes me survive.

Was there anyone or anything in particular that pushed you to pursue music?
When starting music in a professional way, I got my musical education from Sir Jones Kabanga, a multi-award-winning guitar legend from Zambia. 2009, I was excited won the Ngoma Awards as Best Upcoming Female Artist. Shortly after this, I won with my own band the Music Crossroads Interregio competition. As a winner, I was taken on a 3 months concert tour through Europe which gave me an enormous push and motivation.

When you’re writing a song, how do you know when you have an idea worth pursuing?
Usually, I record song ideas on my phone and start working them out. With my producers and musicians, we work out a demo version to submit it to my record label. Together with my management and team, we then decide which songs make to the next album or will be released as a single.

If you are asked to collaborate with a renowned musician, whose name will you write down?
For one of my upcoming albums, I would love to work with well-established musicians like Richard Bona or Larry Graham which I both respect a lot for their works. At the same time, I wouldn’t mind to try out new things with any of the African pop start. Maybe there will be some surprises in the future.

Do you put a lot of pressure on yourself?
In general: no. But if I want to deliver something I’m dreaming of, I pressure myself and my team until we get the results I’m looking for.

If you had one message to give your fans, what would it be?
Be strong and never give up in life! Sometimes it takes time – but hard work pays off! And especially ladies: take your life in your own hands and don’t depend on others to feed you. It’s your future!

For our final question, is there anything else you would like to add?
I appreciate the support of my fans and especially the hundred of good comments and messages I got about my new song with Slapdee.

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