Her dreadlocks sway to the rhythm of her music that has made her a gem on East Africa's music scene. Nazizi, 26, 'first lady' of the Necessary Noise duo as she is popularly called, is also part of the East African Reggae Bashment Crew. Edgar R. Batte talked to her.

How many skirts do you have?

Zzero... I have none. I am more comfortable in jeans and trousers. I don't remember a day when wore a skirt. (breaks out into laughter) .

What makes you tick?

The fans, because they keep me going. They make us feel our work is positive and appreciated which keeps us doing more.

What drives you crazy?

Artistes fighting instead of building the industry. We still have a long way to go. We shouldn't fight because someone has a better song than ours but work harder. Most artistes crave for the model size 8, since agents want to promote a 'sexy' siren image.

Has this affected you?

No. Regardless of what promoters want to sell, it is the music that we do that sells in the industry. I am an African, so why should care about what the western people find good? I don't think that bothers me.

Do you ever get male fans mobbing you?

Yeah. As an artiste, I have to be accessible to my fans and at the same time be careful

because I have an image to protect.

How many times do you visit the beauty parlour?

Never (chuckles)

What has been your craziest buy?

I bought rims for my car for Kshs.160, 000.

If you had to describe your persona, what are the five words you would use?

That's hard (breaks out into laughter). I don't know what to think of myself...I think am ambitious, focussed, hardworking, different and guess a bit complicated.

Anyone special in your life you share these attributes with?

I have a boyfriend. We've been together for three years now.

What makes him special to you?

He's very understanding of my work. He is the only person who truly understands me.

Anything you detest?

I hate being alone, by myself.

What is your favourite drink?

Club Pilsner.