By Robert Gira
He may not have the aura of the average pop idol or music celebrity, but Silas Edward Olara is the new gospel music star on the scene. Deep facial and body scars that make him seem older than he is testify of his near brush with death when he was involved in a motor accident a couple of years back.
The immensely gifted but unassuming singer is the silky-voiced tenor soloist behind popular hits like Konya Ya I Bot Rwot and Ting Yesu Malu. The Lira based artist combines inspirational lyrics with a freestyle reggae genre, to come up with hits that are unmistakably a brand of its own.
While his star may be rising, Olara is not entirely cured from the physical trauma of the accident. It would have been an easier option, for someone with a similar story to lie back and exploit his handicap to lobby for handouts from sympathetic donors.
One of Olara `s eyes is badly damaged and surgery is pending due to lack of funds. The excruciating and constant pain on his back has affected the quality of his life but not the resolve to make a positive contribution in society. Equally inspiring is the fact that Olara has recently completed his graduate studies.
He currently volunteers with children `s charity organisation and is involved in mentoring the youth and budding artists. The captivatingly mellow praise song You Gave Me Love, is nothing short of a divinely inspired work of a genius. But this particular piece also speaks of Olara `s aspiration to give to others what his maker has given him, love and a chance to live again.
Silas Olara appeals to well-wishers from within and outside Uganda to finance his project to set up a recording studio and sponsor the production of a new album. Funds are also required for an eye surgery and correction of other ailments.
girarobert@yahoo.com
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