Ugandan music heavyweight Bebe Cool has released the much-anticipated Bebe Cool List 2025, spotlighting artists and songs he believes defined the year and offering assessment of the industry’s state.
According to Bebe Cool, although 2025 was marked by controversies and disruptions, it performed better than 2024 in terms of creativity, driven primarily by younger artists who pushed boundaries and challenged traditional norms.
Bebe Cool – Break The Chains (Album)
Topping the list is Bebe Cool himself, following the release of his globally inspired album Break The Chains. Rooted in Afrobeat and Afro-tech, the project marked a bold reinvention that resonated strongly beyond Uganda’s borders.
With standout tracks like Hidden Agendas, Cheque ft Joshua Baraka, Home, Motivation, Hips Don’t Lie, and Rectangle Love, Bebe Cool credits the album for reviving album culture in Uganda, insisting that true professionalism in music begins with body-of-work projects rather than singles.
Joshua Baraka – Wrong Places
Praised as the most globally competitive young Ugandan artist, Joshua Baraka earned his place with Wrong Places, a single off his 12-track album Juvie. Bebe Cool applauded Baraka’s willingness to sound different, invest heavily, and focus on the international market, noting that his music currently represents Uganda strongly on the global stage.
Elijah Kitaka – Ekyange, Daily Bundle, Go Remix ft Karole Kasita
Named the best local male Ugandan artist of 2025, Elijah Kitaka impressed with consistency, creativity, and versatility. Bebe Cool highlighted his unique voice, fashion sense, humility, and the support of Swangz Avenue as key ingredients for his inevitable global breakthrough.
Dax Vybz – At My Door, Good Idea ft Elijah Kitaka
Dax Vybz returned to the list with two notable releases, earning praise for carving his own path without leaning on family ties. Bebe Cool credited his growth, discipline, and persistence as signs of a rising star.
Kapeke – Kaba
Making a comeback to the list, Kapeke impressed with his style, catchy hooks, and stage presence. Bebe Cool predicted that his uniqueness could see him outshine many contemporaries if he stays consistent.
Lydia Jazmine – The One & Only (Album)
Despite lacking a massive hit, Lydia Jazmine earned recognition for her 16-track album, which appealed to lovers of soft music. Bebe Cool emphasized that investing in an album elevates an artist’s professionalism, especially in an industry dominated by male acts.
FYNO – Che Che
Songwriter-turned-performer FYNO finally landed a personal hit with Che Che. Bebe Cool praised the song’s success and acknowledged the long journey it took for FYNO to shine as a solo artist.
Vinka – Lala
Vinka made the list with Lala, a calm and sweetly executed song that Bebe Cool described as simply good music deserving appreciation.
Ray G – Ow’ishe
Although Ray G’s 2025 output did not surpass his 2024 success, Ow’ishe secured him a place on the list, with Bebe Cool noting his continued rise.
Uncle Chumi – Gwokute Gobba
Bebe Cool applauded Uncle Chumi for turning perceived weaknesses into strengths, crediting Gwokute Gobba for its originality and impact.
Sheebah Karungi
Returning from maternity leave, Sheebah was recognized for her comeback effort. Though Somebody was not a massive hit, Bebe Cool commended her resilience and ability to reclaim attention after a year-long break.
Tracy Melon
Despite lacking a standout hit, Tracy Melon made the list due to her strong visibility and buzz throughout 2025.
BEST COLLABORATIONS OF 2025
Top Collaboration
- See You Tonight – Cindy Sanyu & Omega 256
Bebe Cool hailed the song as one of 2025’s finest, praising Cindy Sanyu’s unmatched musical authority and Omega 256’s promising talent. He ranked it alongside Wrong Places and Ekyange as potential Song of the Year contenders.
Other Notable Collaborations
- Kapati – Alien Skin & Naxx
- Wanula – Ava Peace & Temperature
- Ekisododo – Lil Pazo & Latinum
- Misolo Boka – Mad King ft Nandor Love
WARNING TO THE INDUSTRY
Bebe Cool concluded by warning of a steady decline in quality, stating that 2025 was weaker than 2024, continuing a downward trend from previous years. He attributed this to laziness, false confidence, excuses, and drug abuse.
ALSO READ: Bebe Cool drops the 2024 Bebe Cool List
Drawing from his own journey, from hustling in Nairobi to performing on global stages and meeting international icons, Bebe Cool urged Ugandan artists to think beyond the local market, leverage modern advantages, and prioritize hard work, discipline, and global ambition.
According to him, with better technology, government support, and world-class studios now available, there is no excuse for Uganda’s music industry not to rise higher.
