Big Talent singer Eddy Kenzo, born Edrisa Musuuza, has defended his recent Grammy Awards nomination amidst criticism from netizens.
Over the weekend, Eddy Kenzo was among the African artists nominated for the 2026 Grammy Awards. His song ‘Hope and Love’ collaboration featuring Mehran Matin is categorized under the Best African Performance category alongside African giants like Tyla, Ayra Star, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, and Omah Lay.
The monumental achievement left Ugandans questioning how he managed to secure the prestigious nomination, as the selected song was unknown to music lovers.
In an interview, Eddy Kenzo explained that the selection was not based on popularity or YouTube views, but on uniqueness, quality in terms of melody, instrumentation, and the creator’s originality. While his song might not be appealing or even popular to some people, it met the eligibility rules.
The criteria are on their website, and I urge everyone to read them. People do not want to do research. It has nothing to do with popularity or having many views. It is about the technical aspect of the music, what you are selling to the world. It is all about what you are doing.
This is the second time Eddy Kenzo has received a Grammy nomination, making him the first Ugandan to do so. He explained that the milestone was a win for Uganda as a whole and was glad to see the country flourish in all fields.
ALSO READ: Eddy Kenzo Shines Again: Lands 2026 Grammy Nod for “Hope and Love”
He thanked Ugandans for supporting him despite the criticism and negativity he has been receiving recently.
Ugandans have helped me. This is my home, even when I go abroad. Most of the good things I have, I have earned from Uganda. The prayers and love that people have shown me. With the kind of influence I carry, many have tried to suffocate my brand, but people have continued loving me. They have been attempting to taint my name, but they have not succeeded.
@galaxyfmug It’s not about the popularity, it’s about the uniqueness, quality instrumentation and originality – @eddykenzo speaks out on his second #GRAMMYs nomination #ZzinaLifeStyle ♬ original sound – 100.2 Galaxy FM Zzina!
