Vinka has opened up about the challenges she faced when she was starting out in the music industry, revealing that negative comments and criticism pushed her into periods of stress and depression.
The singer said she struggled with the words people directed at her, particularly on social media, but gradually developed a tougher mindset as she gained more experience in the industry.
“When I had just started doing music, I went through stress and depression because of the words that were being spoken against me. But as I kept growing, I developed a tough skin and got used to people’s words,” Vinka said.
Vinka also reflected on her early days as a performer, recalling that her first stage performance was at Nsambya Girls while performing her song “Level.” She said the school setting made the experience less intimidating, although she still experiences stage fright before performances.
“My first time on stage was with a song called Level at Nsambya Girls. It was okay because it was a school event, so I didn’t find it difficult. Even on stage, I get stage fright, but it changes when the music starts. I don’t know what happens, but I just get into the mood,” she explained.
According to Vinka, her confidence has grown alongside her career, with improvements not only in her voice but also in her branding and overall approach to music. However, she says the desire to achieve more remains strong.
“I’ve matured as an artist, voice-wise and in terms of branding. If I had fears back then, now I’m a bit more solid, but I’m still hungry for more success,” she said.
Vinka said social media criticism was among the biggest challenges she faced as a rising artist, with some people abusing her online, overlooking her work and later criticising her.
She has now encouraged upcoming musicians not to allow the opinions of a few people to define their worth or determine their future in the industry.
“To rising artists, even when you face those challenges, that doesn’t mean one person’s opinion is how everyone sees you. Some people make negative comments about others just to satisfy something within themselves,” Vinka advised.