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Cinderella Sanyu, known as Cindy Sanyu, is a dancehall artist, afro-pop singer, and songwriter hailing from Uganda. Born on August 28, 1985, in Kampala, Cindy is also the fifth child in a family of eight, belonging to the Munyoro/Itesot tribe from the Mbale district.
Growing up in Ntinda barracks due to her father’s military service, Cindy recalls experiencing the smell of tear gas during military training activities. Despite her petite stature preventing her from joining the school choir, Cindy’s mother introduced her to singing at church.
Cindy’s educational journey began at Wenale Primary School in the Mbale district, followed by Ngora High School for her senior one and two years. She later attended Wenale View Secondary School Mbale for senior three and four, concluding her A-level education at Mbale Progressive High School. Cindy, however, did not pursue further education after high school, opting to dive directly into the music industry.
Her musical inclinations emerged early, with Cindy starting to sing at six years old in her Ntinda church. At the age of 16, she participated in a talent search organized by Capital Radio, a prominent Ugandan radio station, and began collaborating with music producer Steve Jean. Under his guidance, Cindy entered the Coca-Cola Pop Stars contest, resulting in the formation of the girl group Blue 3 in 2003.
Cindy Sanyu’s prominence expanded when she became one of the original members of Blue 3, alongside Lilian Mbabazi and Jackie Chandiru. She has shared stages with notable artists such as Psquare, Wahu, Tiwa Savage, Shaggy, and Davido. Cindy’s solo career took off with her 2009 album “Ayokya Ayokya,” featuring hits like “Mbikoye” and “Nawewe.” Regarded as one of the leading female dancehall artists in East Africa, Cindy’s recent hit, “Boom Party,” has achieved top rankings in Uganda and across the continent.
In addition to her musical pursuits, Cindy is the proud owner of a band named Band Cindy.
Cinderella Sanyu, popularly known as Cindy Sanyu, is a versatile Ugandan dancehall artist, afro-pop singer, and songwriter. Born on August 28, 1985, in Kampala, Cindy rose to prominence as one of the original members of Blue 3, a group comprising Lilian Mbabazi and Jackie Chandiru. The group earned notable nominations, including Video of the Year at the 2005 and 2007 Pearl of Africa Music Awards, as well as a nomination for Best East African Group at the 2005 Kora Awards.
In 2005, Blue 3’s song “Frisky” received a nomination for Best East African Video at the Tanzania Music Awards. The following year, the group was again nominated for Best Group and Best Performer at the Channel O Music Awards.
Cindy’s solo career kicked off in 2008 when she departed from Blue 3. Her debut single, “Mbikooye,” earned her a nomination for a PAM Award in 2009 as a talent to watch. Cindy’s first solo album, “Mbikooye,” featured chart-topping songs like “Nawewe” and “Outta My Mind.” She collaborated with P Square on the hit “You and Me.”
In 2010, Cindy released the hit song “Only,” followed by “Selecta” in 2012, which gained international recognition. Noteworthy collaborations include working with Psquare, Juliana Kanyomozi, Fidempa, Bobi Wine, Byaxxy, and others.
2019 proved to be a significant year for Cindy as she released her biggest hit, “Boom Party,” which topped charts and garnered multiple award nominations. In addition to her musical pursuits, Cindy ventured into acting, earning nominations for her roles in movies like “Bella” and “November Tear.”
Cindy’s personal life has seen various relationships, including marriages and divorces. She shares a daughter named Amani with her ex-husband Mario Brunette. Cindy was also engaged to Joel Okuyo Pyrnce, a filmmaker.
Cindy Sanyu’s notable songs include “Mbikooye,” “Ayokya Ayokya,” “Boom Party,” “Run This City,” “Copycat,” and “Mwoto,” among others. She has faced controversies, including disputes with former Blue 3 members, explicit photo leaks, and conflicts with fellow artist Sheeba Kalungi. Despite the challenges, Cindy remains a prominent figure in the Ugandan music scene.
