Viking Dingdong says he began selling roast fish after the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted his emerging singing career and his money started running out.
The DJ and recording artiste recalled securing a New York performance shortly before the shutdown. He initially expected the disruption to last only a couple of weeks, but became increasingly concerned as the months passed.
With performances curtailed, he turned to preparing fish stuffed with vegetables and roasted in foil. A friend who sold clothing had a space in Enterprise where he could operate.
Dingdong said the work helped him bring in money during an uncertain period. Preparing the fish was physically demanding, and he recalled his hands being repeatedly pricked by fish bones.
His broadcasting income also fell. According to Dingdong, his radio pay was halved because sponsorship had dried up.
He described the food business as a practical response to an urgent need for income while entertainment work remained disrupted.