I almost gave up says Walter Chilambo

He had spent some time in the studio with his brother after he moved from Mbeya to Dar es Salaam before the opportunity to audition for EBSS came knocking.

He then went on to beat the odds to win the sixth edition EBSS reality TV show in November 2012.
He has since maintained the characteristic humility which he displayed throughout the contest, and so far the headlines have spared him. This week, he spoke to the Beat on life after EBSS. Here are excerpts of the interview.

What have you been up to lately?
I know that there are lots of unanswered questions out there but what I can say to my fans is that they shouldn’t worry. I am coming very differently. I have recorded some tracks. God willing, I will release my first single on February 8th. It’s a zouk and R&B fusion.

Do you have any plans for further studies?
When I joined EBSS I had just finished my Form Four a year earlier. I have the desire to go on with studies but in the meantime I have to fulfil my contractual obligations with Zantel that run until the end of the year.

Why do you think most past winner have not lived up to the expectations of viewers?
In this industry apart from the talent you need to have connections but also I think money and sometimes inability to do great music has contributed to this.  As far as I am concerned I have the belief that I  am in good hands, they’ll get me to a point I’ll be able to accomplish something.

Who are your favourite musicians?
I love Ben Pol, he inspires me. Actually I plan to do a duet with him. He knows that too, so I guess it’s just a matter of time. I also like Omario, of the defunct B2K. He’s the guy that made me start singing.

From the past contestants who else would say is a talented singer?
There were many talented singers. People like Norman Severino, and Nsami were exceptional. They were so good. They will go places I am sure.

What was your most embarrassing moment in life?
That was when I was denied the opportunity to record in local studios.  Others said I could not sing, others wouldn’t let me make down payments. Because of the rejection, I somehow gave up on music. It’s funny how I picked it up again with EBSS.

How has the fame affected your life?
I have been so notable, especially with children and girls.  The kids follow you around; cheer you whenever they see you. As for girls, you know them, some just can’t restrain themselves, they sometimes shout your name when they see you, ask for your phone number.

I have lost the freedom to live my ordinary life like the other day  I boarded a daladala, it got people worked up for all the wrong reasons

So, you no longer use public transport?
I board one, when I have to. I lead an ordinary life.

What did you do with the Sh50 million?
To be honest, the larger part of it is somewhere in a bank as I am yet to come up with a business plan on how to invest it. Money can sometimes be very tempting that one might just rush go buy a ride, clubbing and have all sorts of fun.

You mean you don’t go to clubs?
I rarely go to night clubs , except  in exceptional  circumstances such as the other day when  I accompanied Ben Pol’s  to a show at Billicanas  and that was my first time. Because before Ben Pol’s gig, I can’t even recall when I last went to club, it was so long ago.  I am also teetotaler.