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What is your actual name, and how did you come up with the name “Tip Swizzy”?
Nicholas Mukalazi is my given name. When I ventured into music, I aimed for a moniker with lasting impact, leading to the creation of “Tip Swizzy.” “Tip” conveys a hint, and “Swizzy” was inspired by a Seventh-Day Adventist pastor who frequently used the term to refer to the present day.
When did you decide to pursue a career in music?
I was in Senior Two at the time; the exact year escapes me. However, my passion was always in singing, steering clear of aspirations to become a pilot or lawyer.
Initially, you were known for dancing. Why did you transition to music?
It wasn’t a shift, but the group I belonged to primarily focused on dance. For me, music took precedence over dancing; I utilized dance as a breakthrough tactic and also set a standard.
Why did you part ways with Big Talent?
Kenzo called a meeting and informed me that I was no longer needed in the group.
How long were you associated with Big Talent?
For five years.
Was it challenging for you to go solo?
Before my dismissal, I had already devised my next move. I had an inkling that it might happen, and I even hinted at it in songs by referencing the brand. Mozello, a dancer, and my manager are also affiliated with the Helicopter label.
How did you manage to produce videos and record songs when finances were limited post-Big Talent?
Frank Jah, my cousin, played a crucial role in my career. He extended significant support in terms of video shoots and audio recordings. At one point, I even worked for him, sustaining my presence in the industry.
Share insights into your family background.
I was born in Makindye to Bruce Mubiru, who is no longer with us, and Nora Nakasi. After their passing, I was brought up by Frank Jah’s mother. I have five siblings.
Can you mention some of your notable songs?
My repertoire includes Bolingo, Shake Your Body, Nkulungula, Azonto, Kikube, Agaliko, Akabimbi, Bam Bam Shile, and Nyola, among others.
How do you approach collaborations with other artists?
I collaborated on Bolingo, Kokode, Nkulungula, and Shake Your Body with Kenzo. Additionally, I worked on Baby Say My Name with Spice Diana, Stylo with Khalifa Aganaga, Gal You Murder with Dax Kartel, and Give It To Me with Fefe Busi, among other projects.
What genre of music do you favor?
I am a versatile musician, making it challenging to pinpoint a specific genre. I can seamlessly blend different styles in a single song.
Who is your preferred artist to collaborate with?
I enjoy working with artists who bring a unique style to the table, often found among emerging talents. However, my favorites include Sheebah and Nutty Neithan.
Around four years ago, you were likened to “Uganda’s Cabo Snoop.” Did this comparison aid your music career?
It initially served its purpose in helping me establish a name for myself. However, I now promote myself solely as Tip Swizzy.
Do you still maintain communication with Kenzo after parting ways?
We have not engaged in direct conversations. However, if our paths cross, we exchange greetings.
Would you credit Kenzo with making a significant impact on your music career?
While Big Talent laid the groundwork, it would have been more beneficial if the collaboration had been sustained to completion.
What challenges do you encounter in Uganda’s music industry?
A major challenge is the absence of robust record labels. Despite the abundance of talent, many artists’ skills remain underutilized.
Overcoming the Kenzo phase…
WHAT EXACTLY LED TO YOUR DISMISSAL?
I never formally signed a contract with Big Talent, but I assisted them as a friend. In return, they facilitated my career progression. Kenzo proposed remixing my first song, Bolingo, which we did. I joined the group, participated in their events, and collaborated on songs, but eventually, he started neglecting me. I was never compensated for my participation in events and promotions. Despite being an integral part of the group, I had to cover my audio and video production costs and transportation. They only provided me with meager amounts like 20,000 or 50,000 shillings.
I aspired to become a star. After contemplating, I requested advance notice of their shows and information about the offered compensation, given my contribution to their earnings. Consequently, I skipped performing with them on Christmas Day, a first for me, and did not attend a show they had on Boxing Day. On December 27 of the previous year, Kenzo convened a meeting, terminated my involvement, and I subsequently established my label, Helicopter.
EDUCATION:
I attended numerous schools, and I can’t recall all of them. However, St. Augustine Primary School, Peace Infant School, and Bethel Primary School are among those I remember. For high school, I enrolled in Courts High School, Crested High School, and Royal College School. I opted not to pursue college due to the perceived inefficiencies in the Ugandan education system.
Tip Swizzy Songs
