Fally Ipupa: "We came to earth without a manual so we adapt"

For a man who lives in his jogging bottoms and "likes the loose side, as they say" Fally Ipupa has a strange obsession about being late.

"Um, maybe a watch!" says Ipupa when asked his favourite accessory. "It's essential they're on time, I'm very rarely late!"

High five on that: we're huge watch fans here at Square Mile, as our weekly WatchWeWant section attests. Perhaps we should get him on board? 

All jokes aside – we can't imagine he has the time: the Congolese singer-songwriter, dancer, philanthropist, guitarist and producer is one seriously busy dude. Having started out with soukous band Quartier Latin International, it is Ipupa's impressive solo-career that has made him a household name and led to tours around the world, from stadiums all over Africa to sold-out arenas in Paris and the USA.

Having recently dropped his sixth album Tokooos II (an edgy fusion of rumba with R&B, Hip Hop, Zouk and Afrobeats) Ipupa claims "the best is still to come."

We hear you, and we certainly can't wait to see what he does next.

Life

What upcoming project(s) are you most excited about?

I live to get back on the touring route, organising a big world tour and end with a double show here in Paris.

What is your greatest professional pride?

I think so far I'm pretty proud of myself. When I see the fruits of the work, I am happy. Mission accomplished!

The best is still to come.

If you could change one thing in your career, what would it be?

I don't regret anything, but by choosing, I'd probably erase some mistakes in my teens haha.

What do you hope to accomplish that you haven't done yet?

Ouhhh, a bunch of things. We're always learning, every day is a new opportunity to accomplish things, to seize opportunities.

Outside of your family, what is/was your biggest inspiration?

I am very inspired by women, everyone knows that, but there is also daily life and its experiences.

We came to earth without a manual so we adapt!

Tell us something that no one knows about you...

I admit I'm afraid of flying, and yet I'm always on the move!

Style

What is your favourite piece of clothing and what does it mean to you?

Jogging bottoms and t-shirts because they're easy to wear and I feel relaxed.

I like this loose side, as they say!

Favourite accessory and why is it special for you?

My watches. It's essential they're on time, I'm very rarely late!

What items do you take on vacation and why?

A watch to be on time, plus toothpaste and my toothbrush, I like having good breath.

Is there an item you threw away - or lost - that you really miss?

My recently lost watch and travel bags!

What's next on your shopping list?

Um, probably a watch! Haha I'm a watch addict I'll admit!

What would you buy if money weren't an item?

Waouuuuhhhhh. I would buy health and world peace. Especially with the current situation which is very complex for everyone.