Top 10 Musicians in Uganda 2024

We will delve into the echoing music scene of Uganda and highlight the talented artists who have captivated audiences with their electrifying performances and chart-topping hits. But it’s not just about the music, it’s about the power of music as a form of artistic freedom and a stimulus for democratic calls.

Bobi Wine has fearlessly used music to rally the Ugandan people against the dictatorship of the sitting president Yoweri Museveni hence becoming an influential voice for change and inspiring a nation. Join us as we celebrate the immense talent and the profound impact top 10 musicians have had on Uganda’s political and social landscape.

1. Eddy Kenzo

Eddy Kenzo is a Ugandan musician and songwriter who gained international recognition for his hit song “Sitya Loss.” His journey to success wasn’t an easy one. He grew up in a challenging environment and faced many obstacles along the way. However, his passion for music never wavered.

He started his career by performing at local events and gradually gained popularity in Uganda. It was in 2014 that Eddy Kenzo’s song “Sitya Loss” went viral and became a global sensation. The accompanying dance video featuring a group of talented Ugandan children gained millions of views on YouTube, propelling Eddy Kenzo to international fame. Since then, he has released numerous hit songs and collaborated with renowned artists from around the world. He is the biggest artist in Uganda. His most viewed song on YouTube is “Tweyagale.” The song has garnered over 145 million views

2. Jose Chameleone

Jose Chameleone grew up in a musical family. Chameleone’s passion for music was ignited at a young age and he began performing in local bands and clubs. In the late 1990s, Jose Chameleone released his debut album, “Bageya,” which marked the beginning of his successful music career. He quickly gained popularity with his unique blend of Afrobeat, reggae, and dancehall sounds. Chameleone’s charismatic stage presence and powerful vocals captivated audiences and he became known for his energetic performances.

Throughout his career, Jose Chameleone has released numerous hit songs including “Mama Mia,” “Valu Valu,” and “Wale Wale.” His music often addresses social issues and carries messages of love, unity, and African pride. His song “Badilisha” has over 18 million views hence the song with the greatest number of views. He is holding the impressive position of number 2 in the top 1o musician list in the country. Chameleone’s ability to connect with his fans through his music has earned him a dedicated following not only in Uganda but also across Africa and beyond.

3. Rema Namakula

Rema Namakula started her music career in the early 2000s and gained recognition for her unique voice and soulful performances. Rema’s music is a fusion of Afrobeat, R&B, and Ugandan traditional sounds creating a distinct and captivating style.

Throughout her career, Rema has released several hit songs including “Siri Muyembe,” “Gutujja,” and “Banyabo.” Her music often carries messages of love, empowerment, and social issues that resonate with her fans. “Guttuja” is currently her most-viewed song with over 15 million views.

Rema’s powerful vocals and emotional delivery have earned her a dedicated following both in Uganda and across Africa. This makes her the best female musician in Uganda. She is currently sitting at number 3 on the top musician list in Uganda.

4. Sheebah Karungi

Sheebah Karungi started her music career as a member of the all-girl group called Obsessions but later embarked on a successful solo career. Known for her energetic performances and catchy songs, Sheebah has released numerous hit tracks including “Ice Cream,” “Nkwatako,” and “Wankona.” Her music style encompasses a mix of Afrobeat, dancehall, and contemporary pop which has garnered her a large fan base both in Uganda and across Africa.

Sheebah’s rise to fame has been marked by her determination and hard work. She is currently #4 in the top 10 musician list. Her most listened-to song is “Nakyuka” with over 8 million views.

5. Spice Diana

Spice Diana’s music career took off in 2014 when she released her debut single “Onsanula.” Since then, she has become one of the most popular and successful artists in Uganda. Her music style is a fusion of Afrobeat, dancehall, and Ugandan pop creating a unique and infectious sound. Some of Spice Diana’s hit songs include “Jangu Ondabe,” “Bajikona,” and “Ndi Mu Love.” Her music is known for its catchy melodies, relatable lyrics, and energetic performances. “Siri Regular” has over 8 million views which became her most-viewed song. She ranked at number 5 on the top 10 musician list.

Spice Diana has collaborated with various artists both locally and internationally showcasing her versatility and talent. Spice Diana has received numerous awards and nominations for her contributions to the music industry. She continues to captivate audiences with her music and remains a beloved figure in the Ugandan music scene.

6. Radio and Weasel

Radio and Weasel’s music journey began in the early 2000s. They gained widespread recognition as part of the music group Goodlyfe Crew. They were known for their unique blend of Afrobeat, reggae, and dancehall music which resonated with audiences across Uganda and beyond. Some of their popular songs include “Bread and Butter” “Nakudata,” and “Juicy Juicy.” The most viewed song is “Hellena” with over 7 million views.

Sadly in 2018, Radio passed away leaving Weasel to continue their musical legacy as a solo artist. Despite the loss, Radio and Weasel’s impact on the Ugandan music scene remains significant. Their music continues to be enjoyed by many and they currently hold position 6.

7. Pallaso

Pallaso comes from a musical family with his older brothers being the renowned Ugandan artists Jose Chameleone and Weasel. He began his music career as part of the group called the Goodlyfe Crew alongside his brother Weasel. In 2014, he ventured into a solo career and has since released numerous hit songs that have gained him popularity both in Uganda and beyond.

His music is a vibrant blend of Afrobeat, dancehall, and Ugandan pop creating a unique and infectious sound. Some of his popular tracks include “Twatoba,” “Amaaso,” and “Malamu.” Pallaso’s music is known for its catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and energetic performances. “Bubble remix” featuring Vector is the most viewed song with over 8 million views. He has collaborated with various artists both locally and internationally, further expanding his musical influence. He is ranked at number 7.

8. David Lutalo

David Lutalo is a talented Ugandan musician who has made a significant impact in the music industry. His music career began in the early 2000s when he released his debut album titled “Kapapala.” Since then, he has become one of Uganda’s most beloved artists, known for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. As of now, he is number 8 in the top musician list.

Some of David Lutalo’s popular songs include “Kwasa,” “Manya,” and “Kwasa Bodas.” “Kabisi Ka Ndagala” is the most listened-to song with over 5 million views. His music is a fusion of different genres including Afrobeat, reggae, and Ugandan pop creating a unique and captivating sound. His music resonates with people of all ages and he has gained a massive following both in Uganda and beyond.

9. Bebe Cool

Bebe Cool’s music career began in the late 1990s when he joined the music group Firebase Crew. He later embarked on a successful solo career, gaining popularity with his unique blend of reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeat music. Some of Bebe Cool’s popular songs include “Love You Every Day,” “Go Mama,” and “Katono.” “Love You Every Day,” has the highest number of views with over 10 million views.

Throughout his career, Bebe Cool has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to Ugandan music. He has collaborated with both local and international artists further expanding his reach and influence.

10. John Blaq

John Blaq’s music career took off in 2018 with the release of his hit single “Tukwatagane.” Since then, he has become one of the most popular and successful artists in Uganda. His music style is a mix of Afrobeat, dancehall, and Ugandan pop creating a unique and catchy sound. He is holding the position #10.

Some of John Blaq’s popular songs include “Do Dat,” “Makanika,” and “Hullo.” His music is known for its infectious beats, relatable lyrics, and his smooth vocal delivery. John Blaq’s energetic performances have captivated audiences across Uganda and beyond. “Do dat” is currently his most-viewed song with over 5 million views.

Uganda’s music scene is on fire now with an incredible lineup of artists dominating the charts. The extraordinary talent is propelling the music scene in Uganda to new levels.

View the full report featuring 50 artists here.

To find out more about how this report was compiled or to get in touch, please contact us.

Thank you for joining us on this musical journey across Uganda!