Exclusive Interview with Ortega Ian of the BigEye.ug
You have never read this anywhere, neither has she ever answered these questions like she did this time.
1. Well, Juliana, take us through your childhood, place of birth, your parents and those unforgettable memories too.
I was born in Kampala to Gerald and Catherine Manyindo. We always had these get togethers with uncles, aunties and cousins on Sundays and it was fun.
2. Which schools did you go to?
I went to City primary (now ARYA), Bugema Adventist briefly, then to Namasagali College.
3. What was that turning point that saw you go professional as far as your music career is concerned?
Once I got out of school and realized how much attention I was getting every time I sang, I decided I wanted to take on singing professionally.
4. If you had a chance to do it all over again, how different would you do it?
I wouldn’t change a thing. Whether good or bad, all those things put together have shaped me into who I am today.
5. Do you think the public and critics expect too much from you?
Well, never thought of it that way. But their opinions and criticism (constructive), do inspire me in many ways. So, I guess it’s a good thing.
6.What’s that other side of Juliana many don’t know?
I’m afraid of the dark. Can’t sleep if it’s too dark. Lol.
7.Many people have a feeling you have it all figured out, take us through some of those sad moments that saw you feel so alone and super sad?
When I lost my dad. That was one of the toughest moments for me because him and I were so close. I definitely felt so sad.
8. Do you sometimes feel like you are two people in one? Like the public person and the private person? Or are the two persons the same? Is the Juliana we see in public, the Juliana in private?
Definitely two different people. Like day and night.
9.Speaking of the media, how did it feel when people said all sorts of things concerning you and King Lawrence? Was there anything you learned from that moment?
It’s quite funny. I’ve been a public figure for quite some time so I’ve learned that people in my position have to be talked about. I don’t take tabloids too seriously. I think there are more serious things in the world to worry about than pay attention to some tabloid story.
10. Speaking of your son, how does he feel and react to the fact that his mum is a public figure? Doesn’t he ever question you when he sees all these bad things written about you?
My son has grown up knowing what mummy does for a living. He’s not so into public attention so I try to protect him from it.
11. About music, who are your Ugandan musical heroes? And what’s in store for this year?
There’s a couple of them. But one of them is Philly Lutaaya. One needs to listen to his entire music compilation to understand. Every single song he sang was a masterpiece. I don’t know how he did it. He was a genius.
12.Why have you succeeded in an industry where many have failed? What’s your magic formula for success?
I have no formula. I just go to studio, create music that speaks to my soul and then sing. That’s it.
13.Do you ever get nervous before a performance or concert? If yes, how do you handle it?
Of course, I do. If you don’t get a little nervous then something is not right. Nerves is a sign that you love what you do and want to give it your best. I always pray before I step on stage.
14.Speaking of relationships, are you seeing someone right now? And if you found the right person, would you be open to settling down?
Yes, I am. Settling down happens automatically once you’ve met the right person.
15.How do you keep in shape? Do you have a secret diet that keeps you in shape?
Lol.. not really. I just eat healthy, drink lots of water and work out whenever I can.
16.What’s the legacy you would love to leave? How would you like to be remembered?
As someone who cares a lot about the quality of life for women and children. I’ve contributed to that in my own small way but I hope I can do more.
17.If you had to select your top 5 Ugandan music artistes and songs at the moment, which ones would you choose?
Wow, my list is longer but anyway, my current top five right now are 5. Naava, 4. Michael Ouma, 3. Iryn Namubiru, 2. Radio n Weasle, 1. Chameleon.
18.What’s your motto or the advice you live by?
Live one day at a time.
19.What do you do when you are not singing or composing?
Travel, spend time with my family, spoil myself, and basically get a good rest because when I start working it can get so hectic.
20.Explain the Juliana music style in 5 words. Do you sing from personal experience? What’s the inspiration behind your songs?
Soulful, African, Current, Mature and Emotional. I’m inspired by my surroundings.
21.What are the five things you can’t live without?
Music, my Bible, my Books, TV and Internet.
22.Finally, what’s that one thing you wish people should ask you but they never do? What’s your answer to that one thing?
I guess I’ve been asked everything I’d want to talk about.
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