And the award goes to…

“Prince” Nicholas, InterConnection Uganda’s P.R. Manager invited Fredrik, Rudi, and me to the first installment of the VIGA Awards (the awards show for Ugandan Gospel music). Outside of working at InterConnection Uganda, Nicholas is also a DJ for Beat FM, and has been working during his free time to organize this show.

Johnorable was invited to speak as the guest of honor. However, that morning we got word that his car had broken down (yet again) in Masaka while he was following around the CFU team. So with the possibility of John missing the awards show altogether, Fredrik was appointed as his substitute to give the keynote speech. Oh boy. Let’s just say Fredrik was feeling a bit out of place in that position.

Anyway, we spent a little over four hours watching some ‘live’ music. The DJs were having quite some trouble. Every now and then the microphone would drop out, or a CD would skip, or the volume was too high.

But let’s talk about the music. You know, Gospel has come a long way. That night we heard everything from the traditional stuff…

Music

…to Gospel Rap.
VIGA, oh my

Eventually, we got word that Johnorable was on his way, so Fredrik was off the hook. Well, not quite actually. A few minutes later Nicholas comes up to him and says, “Hey, get ready…you’re going to give an award out.”

So a few minutes later, the host announces, “To give the award for best traditional Gospel artist is Mr. Fredrik Winsnes, from Microsoft.”

Fredrik gives an award

“Free software anyone?”

He did alright, aside from getting a name that had like fifty k’s and w’s all in a row.

At the last award, Artist of the Year, John gave his speech about his political life, his religious life (ex-seminarian), and how he felt a little unworthy to give out the award.

Then he called me up. What?! No……

And I, feeling very awkward at this point, was asked to announce the last award winner.

Called up

And it was all a rockin’ good time…

3 Responses to “And the award goes to…”

  1. Dear

    THE MICROFT AND THE FAITH BROTHERS INCOOPERATED (FBI) MEMBERS IN UGANDA DOING THEIR THING DURING THE AWARDING OF THE GOSPEL ARTISTS AT KAMPALA SERENA HOTEL ON 24TH MAY.
    MANY THANKS FOR THE GENERIOUS SPIRIT.WHY DON’T WE CATCH UP AGAIN COME EASTER MONDAY 2008.

    YOURS IN THE VIGAS

    JEFF
    AKA ENZYM MARTINE

  2. Dear the viga management.

    It’s at heart that we did enjoy all that transpaired as in for the viga event .
    I greatly hope for the better come next year.May the good LORD bless your trails.

    JEFF MARTINEZ.

  3. purblouh aka Richard kanyali says:

    Dear management of the VIGA we thank you so much for the great transformation in our gospel music.
    This is gonna raise the gospel music.But i request you look at thequality of the music and how touching it is then
    go ahead with yo work.
    God bless you so much
    India-Bangalore,kamnahali
    Garden city college