Uganda’s entertainment industry has been thrown into fresh controversy after Ugandan executive Nyanzi Martin Luther and singer Badboy Kapeke made bold remarks questioning the value and direction of international music collaborations.
The debate follows Joshua Baraka’s remix of “Morocco” featuring Jamaican dancehall star Shenseea—a move that many fans viewed as a strategic step toward global recognition.
However, Nyanzi Martin Luther dismissed the collaboration as unnecessary, arguing that Ugandan artists may be prioritizing foreign validation over building solid recognition at home.
“It was unnecessary for Joshua Baraka to collaborate with Shenseea for a Morocco remix. Those whites, after seeing our hits, say we do a remix of that song, but we Ugandans can’t decide because we praise them,” Nyanzi said.
He further claimed that Joshua Baraka is more recognized outside Uganda than locally, suggesting that Uganda is yet to produce what he considers a fully established international artist.
Shortly after, Badboy Kapeke added fuel to the discussion, stating that he would not collaborate with Shenseea unless he felt genuinely appreciated. He instead expressed willingness to work with Joshua Baraka.
“I cannot work with Shenseea unless she appreciates me and I feel it’s genuine. But I can work with Joshua,” Kapeke said.
Kapeke also claimed he currently sees no Nigerian artist he would collaborate with, arguing that many of them have “fallen.” He clarified that he remains open to working with select Ugandan artists—particularly those who, he says, respected him early in his career.
The remarks have divided industry observers. Some argue that international collaborations are critical for expanding Uganda’s music footprint, while others say local dominance should come first.
The controversy highlights a deeper industry conversation—whether Ugandan artists are strategically expanding or prematurely chasing global co-signs.
written by @enock katamba
- Mr. katamba Enock: Professional designer with experience in web designing who started this activity in 2022 at Kyambogo University . Contact me on : (+256-758287080)
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