By Our Reporter

The team that will be bringing legendary Congolese artiste, Awilo Longomba to Uganda next month has unveiled the Ugandan acts that will also be performing at the show.

Jackie Chandiru who is returning from a musical break following a stint in rehab over drug abuse is one of the acts lined up to perform alongside the Congelese star. She could not hide her excitement as she took to social media to share the news with her fans.

“I will be jamming on the same stage with the legend, Awilo Longomba come April 5th at the Kampala Serena Hotel,” Chandiru shared on her social media platform.

She will be performing alongside other Uganda musicians including award winning gospel singer Levixone, dance hall queen Cindy and guitar maestro Charmant Mushaga for the memorable night.

The Awilo Longomba show is slated for April 5th at the Kampala Serena Hotel.

The post Jackie Chandiru to share stage with legendary singer Awilo Longomba appeared first on BigEye.UG.

Comedienne Agnes Akite

By Our Reporter

Comedy enthusiasts are in for a rib-tickling treat this Friday at a comedy show hosted by comedy star Agnes Akite in the spirit of Women’s Day at Theatre Labonita.

The stand-up comedian is behind the reigns on this one as she prepares to hold a show dubbed “Arise Woman Comedy Jam’’ fueled by Tusker Malt Lager starting as early as 7pm.

‘Arise Woman Comedy Jam’ is a show designed to celebrate and empower Uganda’s women. The show will depict the effortless grace and strength that women of today are challenged with. Their resilience as well as challenges will be shared through many light-humored comical skits and stories addressing issues that women face daily.

The comedians taking center stage are an all-female line up of our favoured suspect female comedy stars including Cotilda Inapo, Leila Kachapizo, Dora, Richmouth, the Fun Factory ladies amongst many other acts.

For a long time now, Akite has steadily been rising into stardom not only among her gang of comedians but also with comedy lovers and supporters since her maiden appearance in the industry back in 2012. She has also featured in popular comedy shows around town with the likes of Alex Muhangi’s “Comedy Store” which have earned her a loyal and spirited fan base.

The star had her first breakthrough as an actress in The Hostel series under the character ‘Arach’ which used to air on NTV in early 2009 before finally taking the big leap into stand-up comedy.

We can’t wait to see what these comic queens have cooked up for us as we prepare to surely listen to those sidesplitting hearty jokes.

The post Uganda’s top female comedians team up for Women’s Day comedy show appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

In an industry dominated by men, and where music promoters, bars and club owners are likely to favour men over women, female deejays in Uganda have shown that they can break through and overcome these gender diversity challenges.

Talented and ambitious DJ Mary Jo proved no less on Thursday at Nexus Lounge as she hosted and headlined the 3rd edition of the Uganda Waragi Ladies’ Affair. Stepping onto the stage a few minutes after 11pm, the deafening cheers from the overflowing hyped crowd were enough to tell why the popular deejay is one of the country’s favourites.

The event was organised to celebrate the achievements of women in commemoration of International Women’s Day 2019.

The performances from the all-female deejay line-up of the night proved that the highly energetic and young deejays had risen to the occasion and fitted well into this male-dominated role. The female deejays XZYL, Lolah, Sheila ATS, Kathy and Nelly Rwaxxy, who have all grown to become as popular as they are influential, showed off three things that they have in common – girl power, the love for the decks and not being afraid to mix it up.

On what has made her successful this far, event host, Adero Marianne, popularly known as DJ Mary Jo remarked, “I have been in the industry a little over 10 years now and I am proud to see more and more females taking on the challenge. Deejaying is known to be the life of the party. You need to be able to resonate and understand your crowd, their mood and the music they love.”

DJ Mary Jo added that at the time she began, female deejays weren’t a thing. “Today, our hustle has become more respectable and popular,” she added.

Cindy and the Band, who starred as guest performers, proved to be the icing on the cake as they lured the crowd with popular jams like Total Satisfaction, Amateeka and Onina.

The event went on till dawn.

The post Female deejays showcase their artistry in celebration of Women’s Day appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

Amakula International Film Festival is back. Heralded as Uganda’s premier festival, it is returning for its 12th edition which is scheduled for March 15th to 17th this year at the Uganda Museum in Kampala.

According to the organisers,  this year’s festival boasts a diverse pool of films which include 19 shorts, seven documentaries and nine features – representing 17 nationalities which make up the selection this year, with majority of the films coming from across the African continent.

“We are proud to announce that the number of Ugandan films participating at Amakula has continued to increase over the years with this year’s section boasting a total of 19 local films which shall be screening – and ultimately competing – alongside some of the best independent films from across the world at the moment,” the organisers said in a press statement.

This year’s programme has been divided into two sections – The Day Section (Midday-7pm) and Evening Section (7pm-Midnight) to be hosted in the Museum Exhibition Hall and Museum Gardens, respectively. The Day Section will be open to the public free of charge and will mainly feature short/documentary film screenings and panel discussions, while the Evening Section will be marked by a Drive-in cinema experience where the feature films in selection will be screened. Audiences will part with UGX10,000 each to access the drive-in.

During the festival, the best films will also be honored in four categories – Best Short, Best Documentary, Best Student Film and Best Feature – with the ultimate winners to be unveiled by an independent three-member panel of film experts.

This year’s edition marks four years since Bayimba Foundation, a leading local arts charity, took over charge of the festival with the goal of repositioning the annual cinema showcase as a major platform for film and cultural development in Uganda.

The post Amakula Film Festival returns for 12th edition appeared first on BigEye.UG.

Roy Mubiru (L) poses for a photo with Cameroon Gitawo

By Our Reporter

Ugandan power lifter Roy Mubiru is living his dream. The US-based powerlifter who has been raising the Ugandan flag high across the globe is set to compete in the World Power Lifting  Association championship taking place this May in Ukraine.

Mubiru who has previously been bankrolled by South Africa based Ugandan socialite Cameroon Gitawo could not hide his excitement after he received a big boost towards preparations for the world championship recently.

President Museveni last week contributed $8,000 (about shs 30M) towards Mubiru’s preparations. This happened while the President attended the Kiboga district youth mindset change workshop where Mubiru presented him with a medal he won at the annual Bay State Open Championships last year, on his way to qualification for the world championship.

In an interview with local media, Mubiru expressed gratitude for the recognition of his talent and revealed that meeting the president is a dream come true for him.  “I have been dreaming about meeting the President and getting recognised for my talent since I started my powerlifting career in 2008,” he noted.

He further revealed that he would not have reached this milestone if it was not for his funder Cameroon Gitawo who came to his rescue in the past. “If I had not met Gitawo to invest in my career, I wouldn’t have come this far. Meeting the President doesn’t come lightly because if I wasn’t a champion, I wouldn’t have met the President but all thanks to Gitawo.” He added.

Gitawo sponsored Mubiru during the RM Power lifting Championship & Cross Fit’ in April 2018.

Mubiru is the first Ugandan powerlifter to ever qualify for the World Powerlifting Championships.

The post Ugandan powerlifter Roy Mubiru praises Cameroon Gitawo for helping him live his dream appeared first on BigEye.UG.

Eddy Kenzo performs at the Girls Fest.

By Our Reporter

Friday was International Women’s Day, and to celebrate the day, Reach A Hand Uganda (RAHU) hosted a mega festival dubbed “Girls Fest” which was held at the Lugogo Hockey Grounds. The  all-day event brought together young people, artistes, and women leaders among others to celebrate girl and women empowerment under the theme, “Gains from Equality”.

From board games to yard games to dance competitions to music performances, revelers who started streaming early in the morning were kept well entertained throughout the day.

Performances kicked off shortly after 2pm with some of Uganda’s top artistes including Eddy Kenzo, Spice Diana, Jackie Chandiru, Naava Grey, Lydia Jazmine, Geosteady, Navio and Beenie Gunter among others taking to the stage, much to the delight of the crowd who cheered on every act. There was also a showcase from international artists, Micheal Franti and SWrap.

To keep the audience engaged, the artiste performances were interluded with dance showcases and deejay sets which saw deejays like Kathy, Karo among others take over the turntables and had crowd dancing away to their favorite songs.

The Girls’ Festival provided a platform for partners to share their interventions, good practices and successes emerging from their work on gender equality. They exhibited products and services, discussing key topics like Gender Based Violence, Life skills, and male involvement in women empowerment.

Speaking at the Festival, Humphrey Nabimanya, the Founder & Team Leader of RAHU, highlighted the positive strides that have been made towards women and girl empowerment and called for continued championing of gender equality.

“Our hope for this Girls’ Festival, is that it will stimulate the much needed discussion on gender issues. This Girl Fest should serve as a reminder that we need to take a holistic approach to Women and Girl empowerment, including preventing violence against women and girls, protecting their sexual and reproductive health rights, improving girls’ access to education, and enabling women to participate in political processes.” Nabimanya said.

The post Uganda’s top musicians celebrate women at the Girls Fest appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

Uganda’s female comedians joined the rest of the world in celebrating International Women’s day as they staged a mega show dubbed “Arise Woman comedy jam” on Friday evening at Theatre La’bonita.

Hosted by stand-up comedian Agnes Akite and sponsored by Tusker Malt, the show was marked by bouts of laughter as different acts took to the stage to crack jokes on a range of topics mainly evolving about social issues.  Laced in humour, the show was also used to highlight some of  the different issues  that women in Uganda and around the world face in their day to day lives.

The evening’s line up included Titin, Kobusheshe, Leila Kachapizo, Dora, Richmouth, and The Fun Factory ladies who staged skits that had the crowd laughing out loud.

According to Agnes Akite,  “The Arise Woman Comedy Jam” is an annual event aimed at celebrating women through comedy. “We set up this event to celebrate women through comedy.  The Comedy Jam will continue to bring you the best hilarious production annually in celebration of women,” said Agnes Akite.

She further noted that part of the proceeds from the show will go towards supporting women who are running charity initiatives across the country. This year’s proceeds will go to supporting the “Home of Hope” in Jinja, which is equipping disadvantaged children with life skills.

The show ended at 11pm.

The post Uganda’s top comediennes crack up revelers in Women’s Day show appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

Singer Irene Ntale on Saturday night left revelers in awe after she threw a spellbinding performance at the Johnnie Walker Unplugged show that took place at Design Hub.

The songstress who stepped on stage at 8pm kicked off by dedicating the night to the ladies in the house in celebration of Women’s day.

Armed with her adorned guitar, she went on to thrill the crowd with an acoustic performance that lasted for over three hours as she sang  several of her big hits such as ‘Stamina Daddy’, ‘Gyobera’, ‘Love Letter’ and ‘Olindaba’ among others. Revelers danced and sang along to most of the songs, an indication they were indeed having a good time.

It was an engaging performance as she invited revelers to sing along with her some of the crowd’s favorite songs, drawing applause from the audience.

Organised by Fezah and sponsored by Johnnie Walker, the show ended at 11.30 pm.

“It’s Women’s Day so we thought there wasn’t a better way to celebrate women and their impact on society than through an exceptional artiste like Irene Ntale who is an icon of progress for many young women,” said Elijah Kitaka, CEO Fezah.

The Johnnie Walker Unplugged show is a monthly musical showcase set in a studio-like setting that gives fans an intimate and up-close experience of their favourite Ugandan musicians performing to live instruments.

The post Irene Ntale thrills revellers in unplugged show appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Bash Mutumba

In the last half a decade or so, the biggest musical export from East Africa, has undoubtedly been Diamond Platnumz. Together with the 5 artists signed to his WCB Wasafi record label, Naseeb Abdul Juma has proved that despite the reign of West African music, East Africa has something to contribute to Afro Beat. Musically, financially and otherwise, Ugandan musicians have 6 major things to learn from the Tanzanian Bongo Flava star:

1. Social media is the new mainstream media

Wait! I know you’re about to lash out at me on how inaccurate that statement is, but Diamond has proved otherwise – at least musically speaking. After him and his record label being denied airplay by all top media houses in Tanzania, he defied odds, and signed a new artist – Mbosso – who has achieved unprecedented success in just one year of unveiling.

How does he do it? Well, thanks to Tanzania’s big social media usage, almost everyone part of his company has a cult of followers on Instagram(with Diamond himself flying high at 6.3+ Million), who are always directed to YouTube, iTunes and other digital music platforms to support any new piece of work from any Wasafi artist. Promotional challenges are also hyped, involving fans singing and/or dancing to the song in question, and are posted by the artists themselves. In the end, even the perceived weakest artist in Wasafi is able to garner at least a million views within a week of release for a video, and two weeks for an audio.

For a Ugandan musician, earning a million views within a month of release of a video is a miracle usually celebrated. Also, no single show by Diamond Platnumz or any of his artists goes unnoticed; more about that in the next one.

2. Teamwork is everything

While a Ugandan musician will have one manager to handle everything: show bookings, stage management, costumes, welfare, photography and videography, security, payment, studio sessions, PR and all; Diamond has an individual or more for each of those items, for each artist. The team has the duty to make sure nothing goes unnoticed. Behind the scenes sessions of music video shoots, media tours and performances are always made ready for viewership on YouTube and Instagram.

Also, music recording sessions are usually seamlessly executed, as the artists spend a lot of time together as a family. They all have home studios on top of the main studio at the headquarters.

Management-wise, Diamond put the best names in the industry on board to make his label grow: Babu Tale, Mkubwa Fela and Salam SK do mentor younger managers like Ricardo Momo, Makame and Sandra to handle all artists accordingly.

He also has a video production company of his own(Zoom Production) in partnership with Director Kenny to cut costs, since all Wasafi musicians shoot big budget videos. The partnership with tycoon Joseph Kusaga to start Wasafi Media also proved he is a team player.

3. Scarcity increases demand

Unlike Ugandan musicians who do up to 20 shows or more a week, Diamond and his musicians are rare on stage, so their expensive charges are justified. If it is not his Wasafi countrywide and Kenya festival, Diamond is on tour across the world. His international performance fee is rumored at $60,000.

4. Be humble

Despite the flossing on social media and in music videos, everyone who has met Diamond says he is a very humble man. He respects every single person in their right. This one is a little hard to believe because fame easily gets to people’s heads.

5. International collabos are a fame catalyst

As Ugandan artists have failed to gain much from international collabos, say Jose Chameleone with Kelly Rowland, Beenie Man and Konshens, A Pass with Konshens, Pallaso with Davido etc; Diamond has made a killing off them. His first international hit was “Number One Remix” featuring Davido, he went on to shine brighter, with collaborations with Ne-Yo, Morgan Heritage, P Square, Miri Ben Ari, Rick Ross, Patoranking etc.

6. A star’s private life is the world’s business

This doesn’t necessarily mean he has to show everything that happens in his life to the public, but he is well aware his fans are so interested in his private life, and he capitalizes on that. Diamond has made sure drama between him and his partners like Zari, Hamisa and Tanasha makes him the talk of the East.

These are indeed ambitious things for a Ugandan setting, but if you wonder how the Tanzanian sensation does it, there you have it!

The post 6 Things Ugandan musicians should learn from Diamond Platnumz appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Bash Mutumba

I was and still one of the few people that think King Saha is being falsely accused of conniving with Weasel to produce late Mowzey Radio’s music and take credit for it. However, his recent claim on National TV that he wrote Jose Chameleone’s Swahili classics; Valu Valu and Badilisha, is downright unbelievable.

During the Horizon Vibe show hosted by UBC TV’s seasoned presenter, Calvin Da Entertainer, King Saha maintained that he wrote the two songs for his then boss. “Yes I did. While at Leone Island, I did a lot of stuff. I might be bad at some things, but music isn’t one of them. I am very good at music. I went through many hands, but in the end, my talent never wavered.” He stressed, despite the shock-wave that covered the entire room.

When Dr. Chameleone was contacted about the issue, he couldn’t conceal his disappointment, “I can’t believe even a seasoned TV presenter couldn’t attempt to save the viewers from such blatant lies. If it’s true that he wrote the songs, why doesn’t he have any other which sounds like them? Leone Island nurtures talent, so Saha is good, and he is my friend and brother. But I don’t know what made him say such lies.”

In a personal point of view, I will give you one reason why I believe Saha is falsely claiming ownership of writing rights of the two songs. They are both Swahili songs, a signature of Chameleone since 1999, way before King Saha started singing. And also, he(Saha) has never released a known Swahili song, needless to say we are not sure if he can even speak the language.

I would like to think that perhaps there was a miscommunication and King Saha meant something else. Perhaps the rumored scenario that involved Chameleone’s late brother Akay 47 during the production of “Owakabi” is what happened with the former Leone Island singer. It is said that while Chameleone was recording the song, Akay reportedly came in and suggested the word “Owakabi” to be used in the hook, and so it was, but it doesn’t mean he wrote the song. Perhaps something similar to this is what happened with King Saha.

The post Why King Saha’s claim that he wrote “Valu Valu” and “Badilisha” for Chameleone is false appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

Dancehall singer Beenie Gunter will be the main act at Evoke’s “Neon at the Bridge” Party that is slated to take place this Saturday at the new Nile Bridge in Jinja.

With several hit songs like ‘Kill a man’, ‘Tompaana’, ‘Tubayo’, ‘Olina work’ and ‘Pon Mi’ among others under his belt, revelers should expect a powerful and memorable performance.

He will be performing alongside Noble and Adore, the Evoke dancers, the all new Evoke band, Bantu Vibes, Izaya the composer, and DJ Ssesse among others.

Sponsored by Tusker Lite, Evoke Night is an event that celebrates raw talent by providing a platform for young and talented performers to express themselves through art and the “Neon at the Bridge” show will mark its first-ever regional edition.

The show will take place at the new Nile Bridge on Saturday 16, March. The event will also feature performances of spoken word, vocal play, poetry, beat-boxing and a fashion showcase in a party which promises to light up Jinja town.

Also on the menu are contemporary dances, performances from an array of guest artistes, as well as a live band and DJ mixes from some of the best DJs in the business.

The post Beenie Gunter to headline “Neon at the Bridge” Party appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

Former NTV presenter Kleith Kyatuhaire is enjoying greener pastures abroad. We have learnt that the former T-Nation is now thriving as a businesswoman in Dubai.

This after she opened up to us in phone interview about her endeavours in Dubai.

“I have been working with Get Quick International for close to five years now and the company was named the best Shipping Company in Africa recently,” she said.

“I cannot complain about life in Dubai.  Everything is going on smoothly.” She added.

She serves as the Executive Marketing Manager at Get Quick International, a Dubai based company that deals in shipping, Flight and Accommodation booking and brokering among others.

On how she got into this line of business, Kleith said she had gone to Dubai for holidays but because she used to get many calls from people who wanted to visit Dubai and were willing to pay to take them around, she decided to join Get Quick, a company that did the same but on a bigger scale.

She has been in Dubai since 2016 and recently returned home for a short holiday.

The post Former NTV presenter Kleith Kyatuhaire opens up about working in Dubai appeared first on BigEye.UG.

Polly Kamukama, the festival curator giving his remarks during the opening of the 2019 Amakula Film Festival.

By Our Reporter

The Amakula Film Festival, which is now in its 12th edition, kicked off on Friday afternoon at the Uganda Museum with the screening of acclaimed Ugandan feature film, “Kony – Order From Above”.

Based on actual happenings, the movie tells a story of two youth, Otti and Aguti who fall in love during the tumultuous northern Uganda Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency. They are however separated when Otti is abducted at age 11. When they are finally later reunited after she is also abducted, Kony picks interest in Aguti and makes her his wife. Otti is then tasked with the security of Kony’s latest wife Aguti, leaving him torn between loyalty to the rebel cause and his love for her.

Directed by Ayeny T. Steve, the movie also highlights the atrocities committed by warlord Kony in northern Uganda.

The opening day also saw the screening of different short films and documentaries, before later concluding with a drive-in cinema where feature films, “Veronica’s Wish” and “Five Fingers for Marseillies” were screened.

According to Polly Kamukama, the festival curator, this year’s selection features 19 Ugandan titles out of the total 35 films that will be screened during this year’s festival.

“The festival is looking to solidify its reputation as a true champion of Ugandan cinema by dedicating a significant chunk of its program to local films and filmmakers.” Polly Kamukama explained.

The festival will run until Sunday, March 17, and will be crowned off with the Golden Impala Awards where the best films from across the continent will be recognised in five categories including the Best Uganda Feature Film.

The post “Kony – Order From Above” opens 2019 Amakula Film Festival appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

Saturday night was surely one to remember, especially for party lovers who travelled to Jinja to experience the first regional edition of the Evoke Nights which was dubbed ”Neon at the Bridge.”

The event that started at exactly 9pm attracted a host of revelers for the one-of-a-kind musical event held at Forest Resort with a picturesque view of the new Nile Bridge.

Sponsored by Tusker Lite, the event had the new Nile Bridge dressed in attractive bright neon colors, giving the crowds an amazing view of the venue well into the night. The event featured performances from the all-new Evoke Band, an array of guest artistes including Noble the Beat Boxer and Adore, Isaiah the Composer and Bantu Vibes who had revelers engaged and enjoying every moment of the show.

The highlight of the night was a performance from Beenie Gunter, who graced the stage with his popular dancehall hits like ‘Kill a man’, ‘Tompaana’, ‘Tubayo’, while his hits like ‘Olina work’ and ‘Pon Mi’ had everyone in the crowd off their feet.

Also, on the menu were contemporary dances from Evoke dancers, a live band session and crazy DJ mixes from some of the biggest DJs like DJ Sesse that had the crowd jamming to the music mixes played all night long.

“We have just experienced a marvelous start to our new season! Evoke is going regional for the first time and we are all excited to work with great talented minds all over the country,” said Timothy Bukenya, Creative Director, Evoke.

The post Beenie Gunter lights up “Neon at the Bridge” party appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

It was fun and excitement on Friday evening as Kyambogo University held their Campus Carnival at East end pitch. The students who had just concluded noisy and stressful Guild election campaigns and voting had the perfect opportunity to wash off the fatigue and welcome the weekend in style.

Usually the organizers open gates to the event by 7pm, but this was not the case as the party kicked off at 6pm with DJ Ali Breezy on stage playing the latest selections to the joy of early revelers at the pitch. By 8pm, the pitch was full to capacity.

The students were also treated to exciting and energetic performances by a host of top artistes.

Geosteady opened the night with his latest hit ‘Finally’ which left revelers raising dust from the dry pitch. Nina Roz, dressed in all black with a golden hat and orange shoes took to the stage to perform her hit songs Anayinama and Olumya Bano. The most exciting performance of the Night was by John Blaq popularly known for his song Tukwatagane.

The carnival which was sponsored by Smirnoff Ice Green Apple was aimed at taking a fresh, fun and high energy Smirnoff Ice Green Apple experience to Campusers. The next stop will be Mbarara.

The post Kyambogo students blow off steam at campus carnival appeared first on BigEye.UG.

Andrew Kaggwa, one of the judges for the Golden Impala Awards

By Our Reporter

Ugandan film, “Kony – Order From Above” took home the top gong in the Golden Impala Awards as the Amakula International Film Festival, which is now in its 12th edition, concluded on Sunday at the Uganda Museum.

The movie, which was the opening feature film at the 3-day festival that kicked off on Friday, saw off stiff competition from three other Ugandan movies that included “27 Guns”, “Her Broken Shadow” and “Veronica’s Wish” to win Best Ugandan Feature Film award.

Directed by Ayeny T. Steve, it tells a story of two youth, Otti and Aguti who fall in love during the tumultuous northern Uganda Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency. They are however separated when Otti is abducted at age 11. When they are finally later reunited after she is also abducted, Kony picks interest in Aguti and makes her his wife. Otti is then tasked with the security of Kony’s latest wife Aguti, leaving him torn between loyalty to the rebel cause and his love for her.

The drama convinced the 3-man jury it was deserving of the coveted Golden Impala award ahead of the other movies.

In other awards, Subira(Kenya) won the Best Non Uganda Featured Film while Chilli On The Lips(Cameroon) was named the Best Documentary and the Best Short Film award went to Doubt Out (France).

Jury member Cristiano Civitillo expressed disapproval with length of many of the screened Ugandan movies, saying they were unnecessarily too long.

“The perfect cut is when everything that is been put together is so fundamental to the story that removing a single clip would make the structure collapse and the story not understandable.” He said.

He, however, noted that there has been great improvement in the quality of local productions.

The post “Kony – Order from Above” shines at Amakula Film Festival appeared first on BigEye.UG.

Roden Y accepts his award at the 2019 HiPipo Music Awards. Photo by Bash Mutumba.

By Our Reporter

The 8th edition of the annual HiPipo Music awards was held on Saturday at the Kampala Serena hotel where several artistes walked away winners.

Here is the full list of winners:

AFRICA

Africa’s Number 1
1. Yemi Alade
2. Wizkid
3. Tiwa Savage
4. Fally Ipupa
5. Diamond Platnumz (Winner)
6. Davido

Africa Best Male Artist
1. Wizkid
2. Sauti Sol
3. Patoranking
4. Fally Ipupa
5. Diamond Platnumz (Winner)
6. Davido

Africa Best Female Artist
1. Yemi Alade
2. Vanessa Mdee
3. Tiwa Savage (Winner)
4. Sheebah
5. Daphne
6. Butera Knowless
7. MzVee

Africa Song of The Year
1. Starboy Wizkid Ft. Terri X Spotless X Ceeza Milli – Soco
2. Sauti Sol Ft. Nyashinski – Short N Sweet
3. King Monada – Malwedhe (Collapse Song) (Winner)
4. Fally Ipupa Ft. Keblack & Naza – Mannequin
5. Diamond Platnumz Ft Omarion – African Beauty
6. Davido – Assurance

Africa Video of The Year
1. Yemi Alade – Bum Bum
2. Shatta Wale – Gringo (Winner)
3. Sauti Sol Ft. Nyashinski – Short N Sweet
4. Patoranking – Available
5. Nasty C & Runtown – Said
6. Flavour Ft. Diamond Platnumz – Time To Party

Best Francophone Africa Act
1. Charlotte Dipanda Ft. Yémi Alade – Sista
2. Daphne – Jusqu’à La Gare
3. Dj Arafat Dosabado Afro – Décalé
4. Fally Ipupa Ft. Keblack & Naza – Mannequin (Winner)
5. Serge Beynaud – Babatchai
6. Shan’l – Tchizambengue
7. Toofan – Toofan – Affairage

Best Song from Western Africa
1. Davido – Assurance (Winner)
2. Falz – This Is Nigeria
3. Mr. Eazi – Pour Me Water
4. MzVee Ft. Patoranking – Sing My Name
5. Olamide – Science Student
6. Starboy Wizkid Ft. Terri X Spotless X Ceeza Milli – Soco
7. Tekno – Jogodo
8. Tiwa Savage Ft. Wizkid & Spellz – Ma Lo
9. Yemi Alade – Bum Bum

Best Song from Southern Africa
1. AKA Ft. Kiddominant – Fela In Versace
2. Ammara Brown – Akiliz
3. Jah Prayzah – Ronika
4. King Monada – Malwedhe (Collapse Song) (Winner)
5. Nasty C & Runtown – Said
6. Roberto Ft. Patoranking – Contolola
7. Cassper Nyovest – Baby Girl

Best Lusophone Africa Act
1. Yola Semedo – Amo-Te
2. Preto Show & Biura – Sacanagem
3. Nelson Freitas – Mariana
4. Mr. Bow- Eu Pago (Winner)
5. Kyaku Kyadaff – Mónica
6. Cle Entertainment – Hino

Africa Fans Favorite Fresh Talent
1. Yovi (Nigeria)
2. King Monada (South Africa)
3. Joyce Blessing (Ghana)
4. Shekhinah (South Africa)
5. Mankind (Kenya)
6. Natacha (Burundi) (Winner)
7. Mbosso (Tanzania)

EAST AFRICA

Song of The Year Kenya
1. Willy Paul and Nandy – Njiwa
2. Victoria Kimani – Wonka
3. Sauti Sol Ft Nyashinski – Short N Sweet (Winner)
4. Otile Brown & Sanaipei Tande – Chaguo La Moyo
5. Khaligraph Jones X Timmy Tdat – Kasayole
6. Akothee Ft. Mcgalaxy – Oyoyo

Song of The Year Tanzania
1. Vanessa Mdee Ft. Gnako – Wet
2. Navy Kenzo Ft. Diamond Platnumz – Katika
3. Nandy – Ninogeshe
4. Maua Sama & Hanstone – Lokote
5. Harmonize Ft. Diamond Platnumz – Kwangwaru
6. Alikiba – Mvumo Wa Radi (Winner)

Song of The Year Rwanda
1. Alpha – #Yes
2. Buravan – Oya
3. Charly and Nina – Try Me
4. Meddy & The Ben – Lose Control
5. Passy Ft. Butera Knowless – Mbaye Wowe (Winner)
6. Sheebah & Bruce Melodie – Embeera Zo
7. Uncle Austin Ft Meddy – Everything

Rwanda Video of The Year
1. Riderman Ft. Dream Boyz – Romeo And Juliet
2. Queen Cha – Winner
3. Meddy – Adi Top
4. Deejay Pius & Lady Jaydee – Manawe
5. Butera Knowless Ft. Ben Pol- Darling
6. Bruce Melodie – Blocka (Winner)

Tanzania Video of The Year
1. Vanessa Mdee Ft. Gnako – Wet
2. Rayvanny & Diamond Platnumz – Mwanza
3. Navy Kenzo Ft. Diamond Platnumz – Katika
4. Mbosso – Hodari (Winner)
5. Harmonize – Atarudi
6. Alikiba – Mvumo Wa Radi

Kenya Video of The Year
1. Victoria Kimani – Wonka (Winner)
2. Sauti Sol Ft Nyashinski – Short N Sweet
3. Sauti Sol Ft. Burna Boy – Afrikan Star
4. Kaymo & Stigah – Gathigiriri
5. Kambua – Count Your Blessings
6. Blinky Bill – Don’t Worry

East Africa Super Hit
1. Vanessa Mdee Ft. Gnako – Wet
2. Sheebah Ft. Runtown – Weekend
3. Sauti Sol Ft. Nyashinski – Short N Sweet
4. Khaligraph Jones & Timmy Tdat – Kasayole
5. Harmonize Ft. Diamond Platnumz – Kwangwaru (Winner)
6. Alikiba – Mvumo Wa Radi

East Africa Best Video
1. Vanessa Mdee Ft. Gnako – Wet (Winner)
2. Sheebah – Omwooyo
3. Sauti Sol Ft. Nyashinski – Short N Sweet
4. Navy Kenzo Ft. Diamond Platnumz – Katika
5. Diamond Platnumz – Sikomi
6. Bruce Melodie – Blocka

UGANDA

Artist of The Year
1. Vinka
2. Sheebah (Winner)
3. King Saha
4. Fik Fameica
5. Eddy Kenzo
6. David Lutalo

Best Female Artist
1. Fille
2. Rema
3. Sheebah (Winner)
4. Spice Diana
5. Vinka
6. Winnie Nwagi

Best Male Artist
1. King Saha
2. Geosteady
3. Fik Fameica
4. Eddy Kenzo
5. David Lutalo (Winner)
6. A Pass

Best Duo/Group
1. B2C
2. Voltage Music | Aka Kent & Flosso (Winner)
3. New Chapter Africa
4. Brotherz Muzik
5. Sauti Ya Africa

Best Breakthrough Artist
1. Chosen Becky (Winner)
2. Daddy Andre
3. Hanson Baliruno
4. Kenneth Mugabi
5. New Chapter Africa
6. Nina Roz (Winner)

Best A-Cappella Group
1. Spring Gents
2. Sauti Ya Africa
3. Jehovah Shalom (Winner)
4. Cape Brothers
5. Canaan Gents

Must Watch Talent
1. Alvin Kizz
2. Cosign
3. John Blaq (Winner)
4. Katera Afrika
5. Kendriq Killa
6. Pia Pounds
7. Rasta Gadee
8. Viola Nakitende
9. Hitnature
10. Vip Jemo
11. Nshuti S Mbabazi (Winner)

Best DJ
1. Dj Bryan
2. Dj Fikie
3. Dj Hearts
4. Dj Shiru
5. Dj Slick Stuart & Dj Roja (Winner)
6. Selector Jay
7. DJ LL

Album of The Year
1. A Pass – African Yayo
2. Desire Luzinda – Transition
3. Eddy Kenzo – Roots
4. Juliana Kanyomozi – Bits & Pieces
5. Sheebah – Omwooyo (Winner)

Video of The Year
1. David Lutalo Ft. Solidstar – Mile (Director NG Films)
2. Fik Fameica And Wembly Mo – Sconto (Director PEST)
3. Irene Namatovu – Nsambila Nyuma Nga Janzi (Director NG Films) (Winner)
4. Levixone – Turn The Replay (Director J Blessings)
5. New Chapter Africa – Kampala
6. Sheebah – Omwooyo (Director Seed Visuals)
7. A Pass, Rouge, Fik Fameica – Midnight Drum Ft. Dj Maphorisa (Director Sam Coleman)

Song of The Year
1. A Pass – Didadada (Producer HerbertSkillz)
2. Bobi Wine – Kyarenga (Producer Sir Dan Magic) (Winner)
3. Chosen Becky – Bankunza (Producer Nessim)
4. David Lutalo – Nkwagalira Ddala (Producer Mozart)
5. Fik Fameica – Property (Producer Artin on the beat)
6. King Saha – Biri Biri (Producer Andre on the beat)
7. Levixone – Turn the Replay (Producer Nessim)
8. Lydia Jazmine and Daddy Andre – You and Me (Producer Andre on the beat)
9. Sheebah – Beera Nange (Producer Nessim)
10. Vinka – Chips Na Ketchup (Producer Nessim)

Best Audio Producer
1. Artin Pro
2. Daddy Andre
3. Diggy Baur
4. Eno Beats
5. KaySam Ku Mapessa
6. Nessim (Winner)
7. Yaled

Best Video Director
1. Darlington – Zero One Media
2. J Blessings
3. Marvin Musoke (Swangz Avenue)
4. Nolton and George (NG Filmz) (Winner)
5. Pest – Grate Make
6. Zyga Pix

Best Song Writer
1. Black Skin
2. Daddy Andre
3. Dokta Brain (Winner)
4. Jamie Culture
5. Nince Henry
6. Yesse Oman Rafik

Best Hip-Hop/Rap Song
1. Da Agent – Who Is Me
2. Feffe Bussi – Who Is Who (Winner)
3. Fik Fameica – Mafia
4. Flex D’paper – Yenze Aliko
5. Mc Yallah – Mpambana
6. Navio Ft. Ice Prince & The Mith – Paper

Best Rnb/Soul Song
1. Cosign – Obeera Wa (Winner)
2. Kenneth Mugabi – Nkwegomba
3. Maro Ft. Rema – Nsiima
4. Naava Grey – Twaala (Taata)
5. Rema – Touch My Body
6. Sheebah – Beera Nange
7. Shifah Musisi – Ebirowozo

Best Ragga/Dancehall Song
1. A Pass – Didadada
2. Fik Fameica – My Property
3. Fille – Sabula
4. Lydia Jazmine & Daddy Andre – You and Me (Winner)
5. Slick Stuart, Dj Roja Ft. King Saha – Very Well
6. Ziza Bafana – Nazaala
7. Mun*G Ft. Nutty Neithan – Atakutya Gwentya

Best Reggae Song
1. Naava Grey – Nvuuma (Winner)
2. Phila and Richie – Ofuge Mukama
3. Prodigal – Love Yiyo
4. Voltage Music | Aka Kent & Flosso – Byafaayo
5. Weasel & King Saha – Mpa Love
6. Destiny Nsonga – Aliwa

Best Band Song
1. Betina Namukasa – Eriiso
2. Chris Evans Kaweesi & Maureen Nantume – Kisaaganda (Winner)
3. David Lutalo – Nkwagalira Ddala
4. Henry Mwanje – Togumenya
5. Irene Namatovu & Geoffrey Lutaaya – Baby Girl Baby Boy
6. Jamie Culture – Nambi
7. Mary Bata – Madowadowa

Best Contemporary Folk Song
1. Afande Miah – Tondhoba
2. Daxx Kartel – Abawuulu
3. Irene Namatovu – Nsambila Nyuma Nga Janzi (Winner)
4. Maureen Nantume – Akambe
5. Sheebah – Omwooyo

Best Kadongo Kamu Song
1. Abdul Mulaasi – Mukomusajja
2. Afande Kadabada – Mudhankanu
3. Eddy Buyondo – Batamivu
4. Jackie Kizito – Tufumba Fekka (Winner)
5. Menton Rass – Empande
6. Ngobi Joel Ft. Willy Mukaabya – Ekibuuzo

Best Zouk Song
1. Chosen Becky – Bankunza (Winner)
2. Dianah Nalubega – Sukali
3. Evelyn Lagu – Kasita Bakuleka
4. Geosteady – Wakikyenga
5. Juliana Kanyomozi – Zaabu
6. Sasha Brighton – Kwata Kwata

Best Afrobeat Song
1. Bobi Wine – Kyarenga
2. Fille – Love Again
3. Geosteady – Finally
4. Jose Chameleone – Mateeka
5. Kalifah Aganaga & Dr Chameleon – Kiboko
6. King Saha – Biri Biri
7. Sheebah – Wankona (Winner)
8. Tip Swizy – Squat Stand

Best Afropop Song
1. A Pass, Rouge, Fik Fameica Ft. Dj Maphorisa – Midnight Drum
2. Allan Toniks – Romance
3. Ceaserous – Kola Nabino
4. Jacobz Nsaali – Coconuto
5. Nina Roz – Olumya Bano
6. Vinka – Chips Na Ketchup (Winner)

Best Social Message
1. Gibson Fitting – Enkoko
2. Juliana Kanyomozi – Naliko Omukyala (Written by Peter Nawe)
3. Mariam Macqueen – Muslim Girls
4. Maureen Nantume – Akambe (Written By Desire Kats) (Winner)
5. Sandra Nankoma – Kaddugala (Written by Sandra Nankoma)
6. Sarah Musayimuto – Fistula
7. Swahaba Kasumba – Ekanzu (Written by David Ssenyonga)

Supa Diva Stand Out Act
1. Fille – Sabula
2. Irene Ntale – Gukuba
3. Naira Ali – Sikyalinda
4. Rema – Touch My Body
5. Spice Diana – Ndi Mu Love
6. Winnie Nwagi – Matala (Winner)

Best School Act
1. All School Stars – Jubireewo
2. Kyaddondo SS Matugga – Welcome To My World (Winner)
3. St. Francis Junior School Buddo – Champions
4. St. Juliana High School Gayaza – Amazaalibwa
5. Winston Standard Senior Secondary School – Future
6. Kaloke Christian Primary School – Afaayo

Best Song from Eastern Region
1. Afande Kadabada – Mudhankanu
2. Byg Ben Sukuya – Mukyelema
3. Genious Drey – Acece
4. Kim Nana – Podium (Winner)
5. Kmas Wandyembe – Shina
6. Via Kalikwani And Harriet – Watya Mukama

Best Song from Northern Region
1. Adong – Yata (Winner)
2. Bush Boy – Adwogi Ne
3. General Ice – Oroma
4. Jenneth Prischa – Angee
5. Okeng Borntown Ft. Daxx Kartel – Gurunet
6. Pine Avenue5 All-Stars – Amoko Tama
7. Twisky Fingaz & Lucky Angel – Zingili

Best Song from Southern Region
1. Juicy Landy & Mr. Spelling – Nsanyuse Okulaba
2. Kent Yo Mbega – Nedila Ngeye
3. Lindah Blessing – Ntegedde (Winner)
4. Morison Ft Emron – Yegwe
5. Omukajanga Virus – Who Is Who
6. Tonny Rich Ft Chris Johnz – Akagere

Best Song from Western Region
1. Amani Amaniga – Karamu (Winner)
2. Emily Kikazi – Yansharabamba
3. Mat Henry & Cj Champion – Muhara Wa Bishop
4. Medotex – Bayoroba
5. Ray G Rhiganz – Tayari
6. Shine Omukiga – Iwe

Best Religious/Gospel Song
1. Baby Gloria – Mbu Ndi Lubuto
2. Coopy Bly – Wakayima
3. Fr. Joseph Tamale – Ave Maria
4. Levixone – Turn The Replay
5. Ntanda Umar Samir – Subhanallah
6. Sandra Suubi – Nsiimye
7. Swahaba Kasumba – Omwezi Guno (Winner)

Best Religious/Gospel Video
1. Baby Gloria – Mbu Ndi Lubuto (Winner)
2. Fr. Joseph Tamale – Ave Maria
3. Iryn Namubiru – Nsiimye
4. Levixone – Turn The Replay
5. New Chapter Africa – Kankwebaze
6. Ntanda Umar Samir – Subhanallah

Best Cinematography
1. Sam Coleman For A Pass, Rouge, Fik Fameica – Midnight Drum Ft. Dj Maphorisa
2. Pest Grate Make For Fik Fameica And Wembly Mo – Sconto (Winner)
3. NG Films For Lily Kadima – Wekunkumule
4. Musoke Mavin For Winnie Nwagi – Matala
5. Jahlive For Tip Swizzy & Sheebah – Munyiiza

Written Record Of The Year
1. Chosen Becky – Bankunza (Written By Nince Henry)
2. David Lutalo – Nkwagalira Ddala (Written By David Lutalo)
3. Fik Fameica – Property (Winner)
4. Rema Namakula – Siri Muyembe
5. Sheebah – Beera Nange (Written By Dokta Brain)
6. Who Is Who By Feffe Bussi (Written By Feffe Bussi)

Best MDD Act (In Music/Film/Drama/Documentary)
1. Cindy & Quad-A for Bella
2. Amooti Omubalanguzi for Apaasa Paasa (Winner)
3. Your Music Your Voice

Best Artist In Diaspora
1. Ang3lina
2. Nick Rasta – Ghetto King
3. Mc Norman (Winner)
4. No.1 Suspect Badman
5. Rashy K
6. Rickman

Best Ug Collabo
1. Beenie Gunter Ft Navio – Kill A Man
2. Brotherz Muzik & Sheebah – Tomorrow
3. Fik Fameica & Vinka – Katubikole
4. Lydia Jazmine & Daddy Andre – You and Me
5. Maureen Nantume & Chris Evans – Kisalaganda
6. Slick Stuart, Dj Roja – Very Well Ft. King Saha (Winner)
7. Spice Diana Ft Weasel – Thirty Two (32)

Best Cross Boarder Collabo
1. B2c Ft. The Ben – No You, No Life (Winner)
2. Beenie Gunter Ft. Skales – Olina Work
3. Eddy Kenzo & Harmonize – Pull Up
4. Irene Ntale Ft. Mr. Eazi – Post Me
5. Navio & Vanessa Mdee – Nielewe
6. Sheebah Ft. Runtown – Weekend
7. Winnie Nwagi & Slim Prince – Fire Dancer

Best On-Stage Performer
1. Winnie Nwagi
2. Sheebah
3. Roden Y Kabako (Winner)
4. Fik Fameica
5. Eddy Kenzo
6. Cindy

Best Choreography
1. Ghetto Kids Triplets (Winner)
2. Galaxy Kids
3. Masaka Kids Afrikana
4. Hypers born talented

Life Time Achievement Award
Annet Nandujja

Video Trailblazer Award
Coopy Bly for Wakayima

Decade Afrotunes Lyricist
David Lutalo

Best Global Act
Joanita Zachariassen

National Medal of Honor for Arts and Sports
Golola Moses

Genius Producer of the Generation
Henry Kiwuwa

Commendation for Social Responsibility
Ghetto King, Nick Rasta

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Isaiah Katumwa addresses media during a press conference to officially announce his annual jazz show.

By Our Reporter

The annual Isaiah Katumwa concert this year is promising to be everything Ugandan music lovers ever wished for, with one of Africa’s finest, Angelique Kidjo confirmed to perform. Described by Times magazine as “Africa’s premier diva” Kidjo will headline the April 30, 2019 at Kampala Serena Hotel along with Darren Rahn. The concert will coincide with International World Jazz Day.

Addressing the media at a press conference held on Monday evening at the Kampala Serena Hotel, the organiser, Isaiah Katumwa expressed his delight that jazz fans will be treated to two international jazz artists of the highest grade; the classy afro-rhythmic tunes of Beninese singer-songwriter, Kidjo and the multi-talented artiste and saxophonist, Rahn.

“This year we bring you two international acts with great influence in both jazz and African music culture. We are looking forward to an evening that will be defined by the rich and eclectic sounds of two of the most outstanding jazz icons of our times,” said Katumwa.

With a rich discography to her name, Angelique Kidjo is best known for hit singles such as, “Agolo” “Wombo Lombo” and “Malaika” among others and is also a widely recognised activist on top of her musical influences and creative music videos.

Darren Rahn on the other hand is a Canadian-born saxophonist with a love for contemporary jazz. The artiste boasts over 25 number one radio singles and multiple Grammy nominations over the past 11 years of working as an artist, producer and mixing engineer. He has scored several hit songs with his best-known works being “Talk of the Town” and “What Cha Gonna Do for Me.”

“Angelique Kidjo and Darren Rahn are both phenomenal jazz artistes of great talent. Kidjo was named one of Africa’s most iconic figures by BBC and that alone qualifies her as the perfect for us at this concert because Johnnie Walker is an icon progress,” said Annette Nakiyaga, Head of Luxury Portfolio at Uganda Breweries Limited, which is sponsoring the concert under its Johnnie Walker brand.

The Isaiah Katumwa concert is an annual celebration of African jazz artistes who have made it big internationally.

The post “Wombo Lombo” star, Angelique Kidjo to headline Isaiah Katumwa concert appeared first on BigEye.UG.

Patrick Idringi Salvado

By Our Reporter

There is no denying that the film industry in Uganda is slowly but surely becoming a force to reckon with. Latest word coming out of Uga-wood is that there is a star-studded movie hitting our screens soon.

The film is dubbed “Bed of Thorns” and is directed by Eleanor Nabwiso, a household name in the industry, with a reputable lineup of movie accreditation to her name.

The all-female crew production addresses the issue of gender based violence, through the eyes of “Stella’ played by media personality Malaika Nnyanzi who is supposed to get married. However, her girlfriends, Jessica (Diana Kahunde), Quiin (Martha Kay) and Becky (Agnes Kebirungi) know about her fiance Robert (Michael Wawuyo Jr) physically violating her and want to save her from him.

Comedian Salvado Idringi and actor Housen Mushema are also part of the cast for the film that will premier later this month.

The premier is slated for March 30th, 2019 at Century Cinema, Acaia Mall.

The post Malaika, Salvado to star in upcoming movie appeared first on BigEye.UG.

Music duo Hit Nature shake hands with Masters Music CEO after signing a partnership deal.

By Our Reporter

The future is looking bright for rising music duo, Hit Nature. This after the “Twazikoze” hit makers scored a mega deal with Masters Music, a local audio & video production house.

The duo which has been previously managed by The Weezy has now entered into a partnership deal with Masters Music who will help with their music production and promotion.

Speaking to media, Magic Washington, the lead producer at Masters Music, revealed that the record label has the infrastructure and platforms to help rising musicians grow to greater heights.

“A song should never be bigger than an artiste,” Washington noted. “We have what it takes to help any rising musician become a success.”

“We have the financial muscle and infrastructure to help them streamline their business. We will produce for you the best sound and also provide accessibility to different platforms where you can promote your music.” He added.

The duo expressed excitement about their arrangement with the record label and promised to release more hit songs this year.

The post “Twazikoze” hitmakers, Hit Nature land mega deal appeared first on BigEye.UG.