Veteran Tanzanian musician Lucas Mkenda, popularly known as Mr Nice, has addressed claims that he is broke and struggling, asserting that change is inevitable as life progresses. In a candid interview with Dr King’ori, the ‘Fagilia’ hitmaker set the record straight about his financial status and lifestyle, emphasizing that his priorities have evolved over the years.
Mr Nice, who dominated the East African music scene in the early 2000s, dismissed allegations that he has lost wealth and friends due to financial difficulties. “Some people say I have nothing and that is why I have no friends. Back then, I did not have kids, right now I have three kids. Things must change whether you want it or not. I am almost 50, I cannot live the same way I was back in the day,” he said.
The singer further clarified that his decision to drive less does not reflect financial struggles. “People want to see me in a car every time, but when will they see me if I keep driving all the time?” he quipped.
In 2024, reports suggested that Mr Nice had gone bankrupt and relocated to Kenya. However, he remains active in the entertainment scene and continues to make music. He also used the interview to address a peculiar trend he has noticed when he visits social spots. “Why can’t someone ask for food instead of asking for alcohol? You can’t come to a bar and beg me to buy you alcohol,” he remarked.
Reflecting on his upbringing, Mr Nice shared that he was raised by a single mother, having had a strained relationship with his father. “After I met my dad, I was very shocked. I would be sent home because of a lack of school fees, yet the school I attended was built by my father and handed over to the government. I do not even know most of my relatives from my dad’s side. I was brought up by my maternal uncles and grandmother.”
As a seasoned musician, Mr Nice had words of wisdom for upcoming artists. He noted that talent alone is not enough to succeed in the music industry. “Most upcoming artists do not understand that having a talent is not enough. You might have money and no talent, yet a song can still be produced for you. On the other hand, you might be talented but lack money, and no one will even look at you. Singing without capital is just noise. I got a lot of support from my mum.”
With these words, Mr Nice underscored the importance of financial preparedness in the music industry and emphasized the value of adapting to life’s inevitable changes.
