The Top Ugandan Songs of All-Time - Starting Eleven
I asked some friends to name their top 5 songs ever, from Tanzania. My Ugandan alter-ego, Richard Nshuti Mayanja, also contributed, thanks to all he has learnt around Museke. I also asked Google Gemini & other AI bots. You know AI is my friend these days right? I also contributed my top 5.
My first time in Uganda was in 2011, thanks to my work at Google. Prior to that, I knew some songs from my Museke days, and some East African friends from Rwanda, Uganda, etc. These days dovetailed with my time at MIT and then later at Stanford. When I visited Kampala, I hanged out with a lot of top musicians there, thanks to Museke. A Caucasian Googler friend of mine had told me, Kampala is the party of capital of Africa. I attest. I have a lot of research and evidence to back this. I only went there twice and I bet this has not changed in a decade.
I wanted to do a list of top 5, but there are too many songs. So I have aggregated 11, to represent Uganda in the World Cup of #MusicWeDeyFeel. The starting eleven. Drop your opinions, props, suggestions in the comments section. Here we go, in no particular order, you can suggest who plays centre forward, sweeper, maestro, left wing back or goalkeeper in the comments.
Sitya Loss - Eddy Kenzo - (2014)
Sitya Loss is a Luganda phrase meaning "I am not afraid of any loss" or "I do not fear making a loss"). This song talks about resilience and determination to live life fully despite past and present struggles. Eddy Kenzo lost his mother at a young age and lived as a street child for many years, drawing from his own life experiences for this mega hit. The track became an anthem of hope for many, reportedly uniting people in various situations. Edrisah Musuuza scored international tours and collaborations thanks to this, and helped elevate Ugandan music across Africa and oceans.
If the song is joyous in the music, then the music video took that overboard. It went viral thanks to the featuring Ghetto Kids, dancing with infectious energy and joy, perfectly capturing the song's positive and celebratory spirit. Ghetto Kids has become a major export too, gaining international fame alongside this YouTube sensation. In fact, this might be the first Ugandan song to make it to the Ghanaian conscience properly. The video was widely shared by influential figures and celebrities, like Ronaldinho, Puff Daddy, and Ellen DeGeneres. Its success directly led to Kenzo winning the BET Award for Best International Viewers' Choice in 2015, a historic first for a Ugandan artist.
Born in Africa- Philly Bongole Lutaaya (1987)
I was not familiar with Philly Lutaaya's music. He's a legend in the Ugandan music scene. This all-time selection's lyrics praise Africa as a "great rich land, rich in history". It also promotes unity, peace, and hope. The title track became a de facto anthem of African pride and a symbol of national identity.
The song helped Philly Lutaaya become 1 of Africa's greatest musicians of the era, leading to international recognition and tours. Nigerian-Swedish musician Dr. Alban even named one of his albums after the track as an homage.
The song says: "I was born to dance, I feel the rhythm," "I was born to sing, I feel the music". This title track became a de facto anthem of African pride and a symbol of national identity. The song's success and Lutaaya's fame provided him with a powerful platform to make his landmark announcement about his HIV-positive status in 1988. He used the song's visibility to launch an anti-AIDS campaign, releasing the album Alone and Frightened and touring schools and churches to raise awareness and fight the immense stigma associated with the virus. His legacy continues through the work of the Philly Lutaaya Initiative Association and a community organization established by his daughter, which help those affected by the virus.
He sounds like he was about positivity, More vim for that!
Nabikoowa (Juliana Kanyomozi) - 2008
Juliana Kanyomozi for me is one of the best singers or female voices ever from Africa.
Nabikoowa is one of the greatest songs from the Pearl of Africa. This empowerment anthem led Juliana to win the "Artist of the Year" accolade at the Pearl of Africa Music (PAM) Awards in 2008, making her the first woman to do so. Ground breaking, she became a leading female voice in the male-dominated Ugandan music industry. Check out her track Kanyimbe too which I think is one of the best gospel tracks from Africa, ever.
Juliana Kanyomozi for me is one of the best singers or female voices ever from Africa.
Nabikoowa is one of the greatest songs from the Pearl of Africa. This empowerment anthem led Juliana to win the "Artist of the Year" accolade at the Pearl of Africa Music (PAM) Awards in 2008, making her the first woman to do so. Ground breaking, she became a leading female voice in the male-dominated Ugandan music industry. Check out her track Kanyimbe too which I think is one of the best gospel tracks from Africa, ever.
"Nabikoowa" is a Luganda phrase meaning "I am tired of it" or "I have had enough". You can tell what the song is about based on this. The song declares independence and strength after enduring emotional pain in a relationship. Some lyrics: "Ebyokulumwa omutima olukedde, Nabikoowa nange" (I have had enough of the early morning heartaches). "Ndifuna omulala kanoonye" (I will find someone else and look for love) and "Siyinza kukudira no, no nedda" (I cannot go back to you, no, no, never) and "Wampita ffala Walowooza ndibye" (You called me stupid/foolish, you thought I was blind).
In the song, the singer realizes her own value. This is a valuable song in its own right. It was written by Silver Kyagulanyi.
Jamila - Jose Chameleone (2004)
Uganda - Buganda kingdom - Luganda language. Enter Joseph Mayanja. My long-lost Ugandan cousin. 1 of the most famous Ugandan musicians who is popularly known as Jose Chameleon. Do you know that Chameleon renamed himself Chamillion or Cha100000? Million, mulitple zeros, riches. His music is extremely rich. His biggest hit is surely Jamila.
This all-time track was sung by singer Rachel Magoola and the pioneering Afrigo Band. This is a Lusoga phrase meaning "where were you?". It also features lines in the Lugwere language. The song's lyrics is about a wife confronting her husband about his prolonged absences, suspecting he is cheating with a woman named Margaret. The idea that the side chick has an English name brought a smile to my face hehe. This track is a national treasure: being voted "Song of the Millennium" as well.
The song's instrumentation and arrangement by Afrigo Band is top notch, blending traditional and popular music rhythms. The song's legacy inspired the 2021 cover by artist Ykee Benda, which was also nominated in this poll. He got Rachel Magoola's blessing and supervision to introduce the classic to a new, younger generation, ensuring its continued relevance. Apparently, Rachel Magoola became a Member of Parliament!
Bread & Butter - Radio & Weasel (2009)
This is a one in a million song by Radio & Weasel. It was a massive hit in 2009, widely regarded as the best song of the year in Uganda at the time. I knew this too, because of Museke. This track is part of the album of the same name, which included another massive hit, Kuku. Uganda is huge for the dancehall and this track cements that, with its reggae vibes.
Mozwey Radio was born Moses Nakintije Ssekibogo and he tragically passed away in 2018, and he combined with Weasel, Douglas Mayanja. Yesyouguessedit, he is related to Joseph (Jose Chameleone) and Pallaso, they are brothers, in fact. Goodlyfe Crew (Records) is the music label and collective that launched and made them a household name. Goodlyfe Crew as a label, crew, and production house was founded after Radio & Weasel departed from the Leone Island crew led by Jose Chameleone. Another huge hit they had was "Nakudata".
Kyarenga - Bobi Wine (2018)
Were you looking for the Ghetto President himself, Bobi Wine? Yes, you have found him. It is only fitting that the all-time classic from him which makes it onto the field is tied to culture and politics. The song became a national sensation in Uganda, with massive airplay and popularity. Kyarenga" won the "Song of the Year" and "Afro-Beat Song of the Year" awards at the 2018 Zzina Awards. "Kyarenga" is sung mostly in Luganda, with some English phrases.
The song was released during his burgeoning political career, becoming a political anthem. The title means "it's enough" or "it's too much". The music video featured Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu in various professions and wearing a red beret (a symbol of his "People Power" movement). Robert was connected to the masses! The song's concert was even blocked by police, that is impact! Some of his biggest hits include Abalungi Balumya (2007), Kiwani (2007) which made it to the Queen of Katwe soundtrack, Wendi (2012), Aidah (2016),
Namagembe - Maddox (2000)
I did not know about Maddox, I think his heyday is before my time. Maddox Ssematimba or Madoxx Sematimba is 1 of the greatest reggae musicians from Uganda, in a country that drinks reggae for supper. Namagembe was released in 2000 as part of Maddox's debut album Tukolagane. The album's lead track, "Tukolagane" and "Nakatudde" are other huge hits. Namagembe is a timeless classic, and surely as one of the best Ugandan songs of all time.
"Namagembe" is a reggae ballad sung in Luganda, and its title is a name of a woman. Not an English name here, hehe. The song is a plea to this woman, who has been away for a long time, to return. I recognize Nkwagala from the song - which means "I Love You" in Luganda. I have known this line for a while, but no, I have not used it on a lady before lol. Maddox Ssematimba is highly respected for his original and authentic sound, that can hold a candle to reggae artists worldwide.
Eno Mic - Ziggy Dee (2001)
This is one of the songs that I was introduced to first from Uganda. This song speaks volumes, give it a mic. The title translates to "This Mic". This track propelled Adam Mutyaba to national fame with Ziggy Dee a household name. Apparently, Adam Mutyaba went into politics, with gospel music in tow. Powers.
The phrase "Eno mic ya Ziggy Dee tesaga" roughly translates to "This mic of Ziggy Dee is serious/doesn't play around," showcasing his prowess and abilities. The song has swagger. "We are dancing in the middle, touching in the middle,. Kampala do not tell". Imagine you are in Kabalagala dancing and this song is played by the deejay! Heat! Club banger! Big songs have big legacies. Eno Mic's boomers loudly. The Disney movie Queen of Katwe paid Ziggy Dee for the rights to use "Eno Mic" in the film. Prowess.
Where You Are -Blu3 (2009)
Eno Mic was introduced to me, but I would argue this Blu3 song introduced new-age Ugandan musicians properly to the rest of the continent, no matter where you are. At the time, I was learning more Kiswahili from my friends so I understood a lot of the non-English lines in this song. The way the ladies dovetail their melodies with the guys from Goodlyfe Crew was just so great. Lilian Mbabazi, Jackie Chandiru, and Mya Baganda shined on this track alongside Mowzey Radio & Weasel. This is one of Uganda's most significant and timeless songs, from the same girl group stable that brought us Frisky, Burrn, Nsanyuka Nawe, Ndibeera Nawe, etc.
Hitaji was their debut hit which had Cinderella (Cindy Sanyu), but I think Where You Are was a bigger track. The song blends Afropop, R&B, and dancehall, with lyrics in both English and Swahili, helped it find success beyond Uganda's borders. "Nakutamani mapenzi wangu, Unaenda wapi" - "I desire your love, my dear, where are you going?". The song went places, becoming a major staple across Africa thanks MTV airplay too, dominating that chart. The song naturally dominated radio airplay and clubs in Uganda and across East Africa. It was nominated for "Best East African Song" at the 2010 Tanzania Music Awards.
Eno Mic was introduced to me, but I would argue this Blu3 song introduced new-age Ugandan musicians properly to the rest of the continent, no matter where you are. At the time, I was learning more Kiswahili from my friends so I understood a lot of the non-English lines in this song. The way the ladies dovetail their melodies with the guys from Goodlyfe Crew was just so great. Lilian Mbabazi, Jackie Chandiru, and Mya Baganda shined on this track alongside Mowzey Radio & Weasel. This is one of Uganda's most significant and timeless songs, from the same girl group stable that brought us Frisky, Burrn, Nsanyuka Nawe, Ndibeera Nawe, etc.
Hitaji was their debut hit which had Cinderella (Cindy Sanyu), but I think Where You Are was a bigger track. The song blends Afropop, R&B, and dancehall, with lyrics in both English and Swahili, helped it find success beyond Uganda's borders. "Nakutamani mapenzi wangu, Unaenda wapi" - "I desire your love, my dear, where are you going?". The song went places, becoming a major staple across Africa thanks MTV airplay too, dominating that chart. The song naturally dominated radio airplay and clubs in Uganda and across East Africa. It was nominated for "Best East African Song" at the 2010 Tanzania Music Awards.
Wire Wire - Bebe Cool (2019)
This last selection was really hard, but I think we had to complete the Ugandan trilogy of all-time biggest reggae musicians. Cool down bebe, and let Bebe Cool enter. Wire Wire featured prominently in the pool and this huge hit takes the last spot. It was released in 2019. The song is a vibrant, high-energy dancehall track that translates to "Connect, Connect" or "Network, Network". Do you see why I added it? Hehe. Bebe!
Apparently, the lyrics of "Wire Wire" talk about about creating social and financial connections ("wiring money" or networking) to elevate one's status and enjoy life. Erm, nah, this is not about fraud, but about having connections and a "network" of people who can help you achieve success. Do you like the song better now? Take from me as a blogger haha. It is a "Feel-Good" anthem. The accompanying music video performed very well online, accumulating millions of views on YouTube too.
Many thanks to friends like who contributed to this - Angelo Izama, Dennis Ernest Ssesanga, Donald W Rukanga, Elijah Bee, Harold Turyasingura, Jackie Namyalo, Lucy Amaniyo, Patrick Adengo, Richard Mugisha, Ruth Aine, etc.
Have more #MusicWeDeyFeel to contribute? Drop a comment.
Check out this playlist of songs that were nominated, etc on YouTube.
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