Bebe Cool has once again unveiled his annual list, highlighting the top Ugandan artists who made waves in the music industry throughout 2024.
Bebe Cool shares his personal picks, along with insights and advice for the artists.
Here’s a breakdown of the 2024 Bebe Cool List:
Elijah Kitaka – “Dawa”
Bebe Cool applauds Swangz Avenue’s Elijah Kitaka for his exceptional talent, praising his unique voice and relatable style. He predicts a bright future for Kitaka, crediting his character as a solid foundation for long-term success.
Azawi – “Masavu”
For the third year in a row, Azawi shines on the list with her hit song “Masavu.” While acknowledging her musical brilliance, Bebe Cool advises her to steer clear of political commentary to avoid dividing her fanbase, using himself as a cautionary example.
D Star (Ozambe) & Mudra
The duo’s hit “Ozambe” became a viral sensation thanks to its strategic use of TikTok challenges. Bebe Cool highlights the impact of social media in amplifying music and praises their innovation in creating a chart-topping hit.
Kapeeke – “Swiriri” and “Shu”
A new face on the list, Kapeeke impressed with his catchy tracks and vibrant online presence. His fashion-forward approach and dance clips have helped him gain traction, making him a promising newcomer.
Acidic Vokoz
While lacking a single standout track, Acidic Vokoz earns his spot through energetic performances and a dedicated fanbase that filled Cricket Oval Lugogo. Bebe Cool advises him to refine his song titles and incorporate sing-along hooks for broader appeal.
Springs of Life Choir – “Lukusuuta”
Bebe Cool celebrates the rise of gospel music, praising Springs of Life Choir for creating a song that resonates deeply with listeners. He applauds gospel artists for holding their own alongside secular musicians.
Pastor Wilson Bugembe – “Toonta”
Pastor Bugembe’s latest release, “Toonta,” is hailed as a powerful hit that bridges church gatherings and mainstream platforms. Bebe Cool commends his ability to captivate audiences with his music and message.
Dokta Brain & Kataleya & Kandle – “Nkuwulira”
After consulting with industry insiders, Bebe Cool included “Nkuwulira” on the list, acknowledging its appeal despite initial hesitation.
Nandor Love – “Kinawoolovu”
Nandor Love’s infectious song “Kinawoolovu” dominated clubs and social media in late 2024. While enjoying the track, Bebe Cool advises her to match her stage performance with the song’s energy to maintain momentum.
Ava Peace & Dax Vybz – “Tabu”
Bebe Cool lauds Ava Peace for her confidence and passion, predicting success under the mentorship of Jeff Kiwa. He also acknowledges Dax Vybz’s contribution to the track.
Aaronx – “Njalwaala”
Aaronx’s journey from taxi conductor to a recognized artist is a testament to perseverance. His classical music style has earned him respect, even if it poses challenges for live performances.
Pretty Banks – “Insido”
Pretty Banks impressed Bebe Cool with her simple yet captivating track “Insido,” proving that less is sometimes more in music.
Lil Pazo
Lil Pazo’s hit secured him a spot, though Bebe Cool urges him to refine his artistic approach to maximize success without resorting to controversial content.
Alien Skin
Alien Skin’s massive appeal remains a mystery to Bebe Cool, who calls on fans to dissect his phenomenon. Despite limited mainstream airplay, his songs resonate deeply with the youth.
David Lutalo & Rema Namakula – “Love Commissioner”
This collaboration is celebrated for its vocal chemistry and consistent contribution to Uganda’s music industry. Bebe Cool expresses gratitude for their artistry.
Joshua Baraka – “Dalila” & “Digii IV”
Bebe Cool beams with pride as he acknowledges his nephew Joshua Baraka’s international success. He emphasizes the importance of Ugandan artists breaking beyond local boundaries.
Bebe Cool – “Circumference”
Finally, Bebe Cool gives himself credit for his disruptive marketing strategy in releasing “Circumference.” He predicts it will be a major hit in 2025, setting the stage for his upcoming Break the Chains album.
Closing Remarks
Bebe Cool concludes by congratulating the artists who made it onto the list and encouraging those who didn’t to keep striving. He emphasizes that the list reflects his personal opinion and is not a definitive measure of success.
He also calls for meaningful discussions about the state of Uganda’s music industry, urging stakeholders to focus on identifying challenges and proposing solutions rather than engaging in blame games.
