Local R ‘n’ B music powerhouse Lawrence ‘Lulu’ Khwisa has said his experience at the Kigali Up Festival in Rwanda was so enriching and he has drawn so many lessons from it.
During the festival which took place from July 26 to 28 at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, Lulu shared the stage with globally recognised reggae music icon Alpha Blondie. Another local artist, Third Eye, was signed up for the festival as well, but failed to make it.
In an interview on arrival, the Lilongwe-based artist said he has been exposed to a new angle of music and the energy and commitment that foreign artists invest in their trade left him baffled.
Lulu said: “I have performed at different festivals, but this one really stood apart. I met guys such as Americans Joey Blake and Kenny Wesley who are really good even without an instrument. It emphasises the point that an artist has to be good on his own before he steps in the studio.”
He said he will strive to instil a similar work ethic so that he fulfils his long-time dream of establishing himself on the international platform.
Third Eye, real name Mandela Mwanza, said he failed to make it to the festival because of some personal commitments which required him to be in the country on the dates the festival was scheduled to take place.
Jacobs Events through Wendy Harawa brokered the deal for the two to participate at the festival, and she says it is part of their initiative to help as many Malawian artists to gain international exposure and recognition.
The organiser of the festival, Popo Marigande, said the music event aims at celebrating the Rwandan culture.
