Top 10 Musicians in Uganda 2025

From the lively streets of Kampala to the dynamic clubs of Entebbe, a fresh generation of artists is challenging limits, reshaping the definition of being Ugandan within the worldwide music scene. Although the icons of earlier times such as Bebe Cool and Jose Chameleone laid the groundwork, the baton has been handed to a new wave that is transforming the industry with their varied styles and fearless innovation.

Currently, Uganda’s musical pulse is a vibrant blend of Afrobeats, dancehall, reggae, and hip-hop, with each rhythm narrating a fresh tale of culture, creativity, and talent. The surge of talent is unmistakable:  fresh artist appear, eager to make their mark on the local scene.

As Research 8020 Limited begins to highlight the top 10 musical icons of 2025, one fact stands out: this is not merely a list, it’s a reflection of the cultural revival taking place presently in Uganda. Prepared to explore the creators influencing the future of East African music? Welcome to the ascent of Uganda.

1. Eddy Kenzo

Eddy Kenzo dreamed of becoming a footballer, but he ended up representing Ugandan music on the world stage. He reigns as the top musician in Uganda, holding the number one spot in Research 8020 Limited’s ranking. His significant achievement was “Sitya loss” in 2014. A collective of children known as ghetto kids created a video dancing to his song that became viral, marking the start of his global recognition. He tops the charts with Masaka kids Africana performing “Tweyagela,” which boasts over 147 million views on YouTube.

2. Jose Chameleone

Hailing from a musical family, with three of his siblings involved in the industry, including Pallaso, Weasel, and the late AK47. His musical journey officially started in Nairobi, Kenya, where he was signed by Ogopa Deejays, who launched his debut track “bageya” featuring Redsan. Since then, he has become a sensation. He ranks #2 in Research 8020 Limited’s top 10 music chart with “Badilisha,” which has amassed over 22 million views on YouTube. His track “Wale Wale” transcended boundaries and united cultures.

3. Rema Namakula

Beginning her journey as a backup artist for Halima Namakula, who serves as her mentor in the music industry. In 2013, she embarked on a solo career and launched her debut track. However, her boss, Bebe Cool, dismissed her, which turned out to be a hidden blessing as she has been producing amazing music that has gained fame well beyond Uganda. Now, securing the third spot on Research 8020’s prestigious list of Uganda’s top 10 artists for 2025 is her masterpiece “Guttujaa,” which has attracted more than 17 million viewers. She continues to enchant the music industry with her remarkable voice.

4. Sheebah Karungi

She began her music career at 17, joining Obsessions Gal after the success of the song “Jangu.” At the age of 20, she initiated a solo career, and from that point, she has been transforming the music scene in Uganda. Securing the #4 spot in Research 8020’s esteemed 2025 rankings is a testament to her talent and determination. Her viral hit ‘Nanyuka’ not only topped the charts; it shattered them with an astonishing more than 9 million views on YouTube. She ranks second among female artists in Uganda’s top 10 artists.

5. Spice Diana

Spice Diana is making significant trends and impacts in the Ugandan music scene. She has constructed a ladder rather than making one. She is well-known not just in Uganda but also throughout East Africa and worldwide. Spice Diana popular song on YouTube is “Siri regular,” which has attracted more than 14 million views. She keeps producing hit singles and maintains a significant presence in the East African music scene, securing the 5th spot and becoming the third female musician in Uganda among the top 10 artists.

6. Radio and Weasel

Radio and Weasel established an unmatched power in Uganda’s music scene. The legendary pair established a legacy, their impact is still evident today, and they hold the #6 spot in Research 8020’s rankings. The track “Gutamiiza” holds the record for their most viewed song, boasting more than 8 million views. Regrettably, Radio died in February 2018 following an accident. This created a significant void in Uganda’s music industry, yet the duo remains beloved by their fans. Weasel has persistently put out music as a solo performer.

7. David Lutalo

David Lutalo has brought new levels in the Ugandan music industry. His songs evolve along the the themes of love, relationships and societal concerns. With his unique style and strong vocals, he has emerged as one of Uganda’s leading artists and keeps impacting the nation’s music lindustry. “Kabisi Ka Ndagala” has more than 8 million views. He has moved up one place from position 8 to secure the number 7 position on Research 8020 Limited’s prestigious 2025 rankings.

8. Pallaso

Hailing from a family of artists, Palaso embraced the trend. Palaso, the younger sibling of music legend Jose Chameleone, rose to prominence with songs such as “Mbuzi Zamalwa” and “Twaweza.” His music frequently addresses societal problems and individual experiences, earning him popularity throughout Uganda and East Africa. He has dropped from #7 to #8 in the 2025 rankings of Research 8020 Limited. His popular track “Bubble Remix” boasts more than 8 million views on YouTube. Palaso’s adaptability and energetic performances have driven his growth, and we’re eager to see him shine even more.

9. Bebe Cool

Bebe Cool didn’t merely uphold reggae in Uganda – he ignited the entire scene. Through his expertise in dancehall beats and dedication to genuineness, Bebe not only sustained reggae’s presence in Uganda but also established it as the leading influence in the industry. He maintains position #9 in 2025 Research 8020’s list of top 10 artists. His song “Love You Everyday” has surpassed 13 million views on YouTube. Bebe didn’t merely come to entertain; he challenged limits to elevate Reggae in Uganda. His influence is not only evident in his songs but is deeply embedded in the Ugandan music scene.

10. Ykee Benda

Ykee Benda elevated Ugandan music internationally by merging Afro beat with pop. Have you ever thought about whether Afrobeat could fit into Uganda? Ykee Benda introduced Afrobeat and combined it with a touch of East African essence. He has progressed from position #11 to #10 in Research 8020’s Limited ranking, with “Obangaina” as his most viewed song, garnering over 10 million views. Ykee hasn’t just followed trends; he has established them, making Uganda a center for African pop that resonates worldwide, and we eagerly anticipate what comes next.

And there you have it – the leading 10 music artists creating a stir in Uganda in 2025.

From well-known artists to emerging talents and fresh arrivals, these musicians embody the finest of the lively Ugandan music scene.

Access the complete report featuring 50 artists here.

For further information about this report and its compilation process, please contact us.

We trust you found this analysis of Uganda’s leading artists enjoyable!