Get To Know CDave Honcho
CDave Honcho burst into the Ugandan music scene when he released single after single during the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown. Before that, he was well known as a dancer, something that he credits for both his sound and following. Since his debut, CDave Honcho has proven that he is in the music scene to stay with his consistent output which culminated in an EP, Vwoo Busy. He is finally right where he has always wanted to be, doing his own music and working hard toward cementing himself as a global star. He kindly spared some moments to share with us more about his journey and aspirations.
Who is CDave Huncho?
I'm a multitalented passionate Ugandan artist who started out as a dancer. Prominence in dance led me to music. I'm also a student and businessman. I'm a happy soul and an inspiration to so many youth in Uganda. I feel like I do all different types of sounds and I don’t like specializing in one area. A combination of all that is that I'm smart, hard working, a dream chaser, patient and a visionary.
When and how did you get into music
I started doing music during lockdown in terms of releasing my own music. I released singles including collaborations with artists such as Kavali King, Mark Mick and Iryn Namubiru, and an EP called Vwoo Busy. Before that I was doing shows and was well known as a dancer. I won the 256 Teen Choice Awards as best performer in 2018. I had this vision since I was in elementary school where I was the guy representing my class, dancing or rapping. I always wanted to do music, I just needed to use dance to get me there. I used it to learn the journey, study the game and study different artists. That’s how this whole thing came about. I joined my dance fanbase with my music fan base and it went well.
Do you remember your first impactful performance of music? How has that experience affected your journey
That was in form one in high school. My school had this event where the new students would compete talentwise. By then for me it was dance and I ended up winning and was named the best dancer in form one. The next year I was named the best dancer overall. That opened my eyes because before I went to stage someone actually told me oh man, don't do this. But I did it and I won. It was impactful musically because for me I describe dances as the physical interpretation of sound. Dance contributes to my flow, speed and the way I speak.
What’s your creative process?
I really treasure my privacy and peace of mind. I'm actually a very outgoing person but privacy gives me the peace of mind to get creative. I love traveling so much. It gets me creative because for me traveling feels like experiencing music itself. I don’t just go to the studio. I take my time to learn, process what I have been through, and let my ego out. My creative process is visual, I have to envision myself somewhere and get there. The people around me are very inspiring. I also exercise and play rugby. Basically my mental state has to be good all-round.
Who and what inspires your work?
I look up to so many people. I don’t have a role model in particular but I’m inspired by people’s different work, creativity levels, achievements and downfalls. Because I learn from that. I'm inspired by everyone that pushes their dream and never gives up on it.
What has been your experience navigating the creative industry in Uganda and how do you feel about the state of music specifically?
My experience in navigating the creative industry in Uganda has been cool. Of course, it's tough because you have to put in the work. People consider you upcoming but I don't see myself as that. I feel like if I'm given the right endorsements or resources, I’m an international star and I don’t limit myself to one area code. There have been good and tough times. Some people do funny stuff to get the work out. Others you know, pray and put in the work so I feel like my experience has been great. It's a journey and that is the most interesting bit of this whole thing- the ups and downs, the people with you, the people that sneak you. I'm grateful because in a period of less than two years, I’ve had my music streamed from different parts of the world and toured many media stations as a dancer and as an artist. I've been privileged to be a young artist with a cause, an amazing fanbase and the talent. Working with Iryn Namubiru was huge. I used to see her on TV when I was a kid. I was shocked.
Where's your favourite place to go partying in Kampala?
A private party in Ekondo. My kind of vibe right now is getting an Airbnb and vibing with my boys.
What have been some roadblocks on your journey?
First of all, the economy, The Ugandan music industry isn’t treasured enough. People don’t invest enough, and that makes it hard for artists. There is also too much corruption and that can kill morale. Personally I try to mind my business and put out good music.
What have been some highlights?
I’m glad to be working with Xpressions. They have a great organization, I love their vision and how they show that they really care and respect the artists. I’ve also made some music with some big artists in Nairobi like Ndovu Kuu. There is also so much coming through that I can't fully talk about at the moment. I’ve also had a lot of support - shout out to the sponsors, Xpressions, my rugby squad, my schoolmates, friends, business partners and all who believe in my music.
Are you working on some new music?
Yes, I am always writing new music. I am also trying to do more music videos this year, both locally and outside. I also want to do more shows and get a chance to bond with my fans.
