Sage: The latest singing sensation shares about music and her life

Chemutai Sage

Everyone is currently talking about Sage, the new female superstar in the industry.  Her single ‘Masikini’ is one people can’t get enough of and her collaborations with Octopizzo and Jay A have catapulted her to even greater heights. The USIU alumnus is clearly gifted. She is an exceptional piano and guitar player.

Sage started out back in 2011, not knowing whether her kind of music would ever garner audience in Kenya. Through patience and perseverance, she has made it.  Focus in the music industry is shifting to a blend of Afrobeat and neosoul, which gives artistes like Sage an opportunity to share a platform with some of the acclaimed performers. In an exclusive one on one interview I had with her, she had a lot to share about herself.

Is Sage different as an artiste and as a person?
Sage is the same person in real life as she is on stage. I just have a name for real life and another for performance.  Although in music I guess I am more romantic. I always pour my heart out.

How and when did you begin your music career?
I began my music career in 2006. I recorded an album that didn’t do quite well. It was disappointing. I later went on to do background vocals for Muthoni the Drummer Queen. In September 2011, I went solo and it turned out to be the right choice. So here I am two years later.

All of your songs have received positive acclaim, how does that make you feel?
It makes me feel great and yet makes me feel under so much pressure to maintain the positive vibe. I really appreciate it because for so long I was discouraged from singing my type of music. Shout out to all my amazing fans. I love you all!!

You have amazing vocals. Some people think your voice is somehow
similar to Beyoncé’s voice.

Thank you. People have compared my voice to very many different talented musicians. But I feel that it’s just what people do. Sometimes it may be because I draw my inspiration from some of them so I may sound like them because of a similarity in style. Although being compared to Beyoncé would make anyone smile. I’m glad.

How was your childhood like?
It was great-very liberal. I had ample space and time to mold my life. I always reminisce of that time and period in my life

What do you think of Octopizzo and Jay A?
I think they are both awesome artistes. Octopizzo has been very helpful to me through this musical journey and I really appreciate him as a person. I did ‘So alive’ with him at the beginning of the year and it was a total success. Jay A is a very cool guy too. Our collabo ‘Dumbala’ is a project I’m happy about.

Are you dating?

Yes I am dating. I’m very much in love.

Which label are you signed to?

I am not signed but I record with one producer, Dillie, who is the founder of Grand Empire records. He’s amazing.

Future projects and collaborations we should look out for?
I’m working on my album to be released sometime soon. I also have another new single about to drop. Watch out for it.

Your inspiration comes from?

Love, life and all things musical