Exclusive: Cleo Ice Queen speaks on her life

Zambia’s hip-hop queen, Cleo Ice Queen chats with LusakaVoice about her personal life and music.

LusakaVoice:Being nominated Best female Sourthern Africa, what does it mean to you?

Cleo Ice Queen: I’m pretty excited, motivated and encouraged.

LusakaVoice: Since getting into music what challenges have you faced?

Cleo Ice Queen: Well there used to be the financial challenge but now that the hard work is paying off… the challenge is making good timeless music.

LusakaVoice: Which is the most treasured moment in your career so far?
Cleo Ice Queen : Sharing the stage with the likes of Psquare, Davido and many others. Getting nominated for awards is always a treasure

LusakaVoice: Do you feel accomplished musically?Cleo Ice Queen: Not quite yet… I have a lot of work to do

LusakaVoice: Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

Cleo Ice Queen: Probably at the peak most of my career. Businesses, music, fashion, TV…. doing the best and the most and giving back to my community

LusakaVoice: Why aren’t there more female artists doing hip hop?

Cleo Ice Queen: I think there are a number of stereotypes that come with being a female hip hop artists. It’s a matter of overcoming the stereotypes. So maybe some females are not ready for that

LusakaVoice: Are there any artists or band you admire and wish to work with locally/ internationally?

Cleo Ice Queen: Locally – TSean
International – Jack U

LusakaVoice : What is the best piece of advice someone has ever gave you?

Cleo Ice Queen: Be brave… enjoy your youth but remember you will be judged

LusakaVoice: What do you do when you are not making music?
Cleo Ice Queen: I lie down, read, spend time with loved one’s and watch series

LusakaVoice: If you were given another chance to be in Big Brother would you take it?
Cleo Ice Queen: it depends… lol

LusakaVoice: What is the first thing you do when you wake up?

Cleo Ice Queen: I can’t believe it’s time to wake up already.. lol

LusakaVoiceWhat is your favourate restaurant and food?
Cleo Ice Queen: the Deli restaurant. I love healthy nutrient rich food and Indian food

LusakaVoice. One thing you cannot do without?
Cleo Ice Queen: phone

LusakaVoice: How do you balance your career and family?
Cleo Ice Queen: It’s tough but I think God gives me the sanity and grace to achieve it all
Look out for my debut album which I will be launching alongside upcoming artist Kaladoshas in Ndola, Livingstone, Chipata, Lusaka and beyond. It’s gonna be massive.