Sunday 28 March 2010

A conversation with Womba

Womba you played at the Project Zim Open Mic Night Last year, what have you been up to since then?

I have performed at various open mic nights all around london including the Cavendish Arms and The World's End. I recently secured a management contract with Iconic Artist Management who have been supportive in helping me further my music career.
http://www.iconicartistmanagement.com/
Aside from that, I am one of the regional finalists for the competition called 'Live and Unsigned' for original artists around the country which is a great honour.

What was the highlight of performing at last year's open mic night?

The biggest highlight of performing last year was knowing that all the money was going to a great cause. It made everything so worth while. And I thought all the other performances were fantastic. I had a great time.



Where are you from originally?

I am originally from Zambia which is in the Southern part of Africa.


What would you say has been the main influence on your singing and songwriting style?

I would like to think that I have a unique style of singing and songwriting. I listen to all types of music. When I was younger I listened to a lot of Christian music that my father had. As I grew older I would say I started listening to a lot more Soul, RnB and Soft Rock. Artists I like include Norah Jones, Beyonce, Tracy Chapman, Eva Cassidy, Adele, Amy Winehouse. Quite a range of styles as you can see. I am also liking Lady Gaga at the moment.


What's on your Ipod at the moment?

This is embarassing to say but I don't own an ipod anymore. However, I have a huuuge collection of CDs, I am very old fashioned like that. I like to go out and buy CDs and listen to them on my radio at home. I have a range of musicians in my collection but really liking Gaga as mentioned earlier. I have also started listening to Eva Cassidy again and Tina Turner. Beyonce's I AM album is exceptional too.


What are the main challenges of being an upcoming singer/songwriter?

I would say my main challenge is getting people to listen to my songs. As an unknown artist it is a constant struggle to find people that will support your music without a record label behind you.
womba live and unsigned.jpg
Here's a clip of Womba:

  • Medsin-GKT, King's College London, Guy's Campus, 19 Newcomen St, London, SE1 1UL
  • projectzimbabwe@googlemail.com