An exclusive interview with Suzan Kerunen, an acclaimed Ugandan fusion singer and
songwriter. In this insightful conversation, Suzan shares her journey, inspirations, and
vision for uniting communities through music. Stay tuned for a deep dive into the artistry
and passion behind Suzan’s remarkable musical legacy.
Pachagazine: Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Suzan: Suzan Kerunen is a Ugandan fusion singer and songwriter deeply rooted in her
heritage. Her music reflects a profound love for her culture and a commitment to conserving
the environment for future generations.
Pachagazine: If your voice could paint a picture, what would it depict, and why?
Suzan: If my voice could paint a picture, it would depict a calm, green world, brimming with
joy, laughter, tranquility, and peace. I love nature and find immense inspiration in its
serenity.
Pachagazine: Your music often blends different cultural influences. Can you share a moment
when a particular culture’s music profoundly inspired you?
Suzan: It was when I traveled to Khartoum and experienced Arabic orchestra and their
indigenous music for the first time. It was very rewarding.
Pachagazine: You’ve performed in various countries. Can you tell us about a memorable
interaction with a fan that touched your heart?
Suzan: It was in Nairobi, when a Luo man walked to me after my concert and sang one of my
songs back to me word for word. It was nice to know someone was truly listening.
Pachagazine: Your lyrics often evoke vivid imagery. What’s the most unexpected place or
situation that inspired a song’s lyrics?
Suzan: I was on a tube in Scotland when I wrote a song called Anyira. I was thinking about
past experiences in my childhood; they became very vivid that cold winter morning.
Pachagazine: Many artists have pre-performance rituals. Do you have any unique rituals or
habits you do before taking the stage?
Suzan: I pray.
Pachagazine: Collaboration is a big part of the music industry. Is there an artist you dream of
collaborating with, and what kind of song would you create together?
Suzan: I would like to collaborate with Youssou N’dour and Angelique Kidjo. The song would
be a beautiful fusion of culture from West Africa and Uganda.
Pachagazine: Your music videos often have a visually stunning aesthetic. How involved are
you in the creative process of translating your songs into visual storytelling?
Suzan: I am involved all the way actually. I work closely with my team.
Pachagazine: Nature seems to be a recurring theme in your music. Can you share a moment
in nature that left a lasting impression on you and found its way into your songs?
Suzan: The recent melting glaciers from the Rwenzories ended up in my home, a place called
Wang Lei in Packwah Nebbi. It’s a historic place where my story as an Alur begins.
Pachagazine: If you could choose one word to describe the emotion you hope your music
evokes in listeners, what would it be, and why?
Suzan: Authentic.
Pachagazine: Your vocal range is truly remarkable. Are there any vocal exercises or
techniques you swear by to maintain such control and expressiveness?
Suzan: The good good old lip and tongue trills. And of course I follow a disciplined diet with
less sugar, and no toxic products.
Pachagazine: Many of your songs explore themes of introspection and self-discovery. How
has your own personal journey influenced the direction of your music?
Suzan: My personal journey is the center of my strength and inspiration. I keep my eyes and
mind on it.
Pachagazine: As an artist, you’re constantly evolving. What’s one aspect of your musical
style or approach that you’re currently exploring or experimenting with, and how do you
envision it shaping your future work?
Suzan: I am exploring more of Jazz, and other classical knowledge to complement my craft.
Especially my composition power and collaboration.
Pachagazine: Your music carries a sense of timelessness, resonating with audiences across
generations. What legacy do you hope to leave behind through your music, and how do you
envision it continuing to inspire future generations of artists and listeners alike?
Suzan: I hope to create a generation of young artists who will represent Uganda as cultural
music ambassadors. I hope my craft continues to fight and advocate for the conservation of
indigenous sounds from Uganda.
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