Noella Wiyaala is currently on a tour of Europe, having performed in Germany and Denmark in recent days- and everywhere she goes, she carries her traditional African roots with her, in her music, her performances and in her wardrobe.
The singer spoke to British Newspaper ‘The Voice’, and touched on several aspects of her life and career, including her influences growing up and how she views the perception of her as a ‘man-woman’.
Wiyaala told the interviewer that as a child, she used to occasionally watch Michael Jackson or Madonna videos, and practiced their dance moves solo.
“…Sometimes we might occasionally see videos of Madonna and Michael Jackson thanks to the one TV and generator in the village. After the TV went off, I would imitate both of them, their dance moves and everything. I didn’t know what they were singing about so I would make up my own words to fit the melodies.”
When asked about the tag of her masculinity, she said its something that has been with her since childhood, and that she doesn’t mind now as it’s a part of her brand.
“Am I actually a man dressed as a woman? Well, last time I checked, I’m all woman. But yes, it is kind of accurate. I was always a little boy more than a little girl. I played aggressive football and at school I was known as ‘man-woman’. I ride big motorbikes and I am very strong for a girl. So to be honest, since it has helped me to gain identity in showbiz, I’ve encouraged it a little!”
Wiyaala also sounded a hopeful note about the future of African music, saying it was on the rise and should be keenly watched out for.
“I want to tell your readers that I don’t believe Africa is a complete basket case. Africa is rising. There are many hugely talented young Africans and they are the future. I believe in that future.”
According to her, she has been compared to several artists such as Angelique Kidjo, Mariam Makeba, Brenda Fassie, Tracy Chapman and Katy Perry.
Check out the full Wiyaala interview over at Voice.