Sundiata – an artist’s life

1. Describe yourself in three words?

Confident, physical and affectionate.

2. If you were an animal, what animal would you be?

I am a Taurus, so I would be a bull.

3. What is your favourite food?

Grilled fish and provisions.

4. Are you superstitious?

Absolutely not, but I do appreciate little mysteries and uncertainty.

5. What is your philosophy on life?

Live every day like its your last day. But be defined by your actions. So make sure your actions are relevant and don’t do anything you will regret.

6. What was your childhood dream?

Strangely enough, I wanted to be a baker.

7. What does happiness mean to you?

Happiness is to be aware of oneself in the environment one is in and to be able to function with your body, mind and soul. It is complete contentment with who you are and what you are doing in the present.

8. What song is stuck in your head?

“Talking Blues” by Bob Marley.

9. What are the things you cannot live without?

I cannot live without good food, something to do and the people who mean a lot to me around me.

10. Whom do you wish to emulate in life?

Simple people inspire me. Like everyday people I would want to emulate. Like market woman and the fisherman. They are great symbols. You can learn a lot about overcoming adversity. I admire their perseverance and productivity.

11. What traits do you find most attractive in a mate?

Self confidence and the ability to assert yourself, express empathy, understanding and generosity.

12. What is the most interesting person, place, or thing that you have had the opportunity to meet, learn or experience?

When I visited USSR, I realised it was very cosmopolitan, and it was beautiful and historical.

13. What is an interesting facet of your personality that most people do not know about you?

I am extremely protective of things I value and I am very brave. I would put my life on the line to protect something that I love.

14. Do you have any vices, flaws or weaknesses?

Yes, I can be extremely stubborn.

15. What was your most embarrassing experience ever?

In 1962, the twist was very popular and I entered a competition in Trinidad. In the finals, I twisted off the stage and ended up in the hospital for three days with amnesia.

16. What is your pet peeve?

People who take advantage of people. They exploit other people and then try to justify it. People who infringe on people’s rights and freedoms.

17. Do you have any regrets?

I am lucky, I have no regrets, but I wish I had more hours in the day.

18. What is the one thing you would like to accomplish before you die?

I want to finish my body of work.

19. What is the best compliment you have every received?

I was applying for a new job, they told me I had impeccable manners.

20. If you could live your life all over again, would you choose a different path?

Absolutely not. But I would like to have more children. I have a 14-year-old daughter named Zara.