Singer A Pass has denied claims that his criticism of young artiste Warden Kartel was driven by jealousy or fear of competition, saying he was offering advice intended to help the rising performer.
A Pass had earlier questioned the lyrics in Warden Kartel’s viral freestyle, “Kikubye Akawuzi Kiwunya Enjaga,” arguing that the content was inappropriate for someone of his age. He also urged the adults around the young singer to guide him as he develops his music career.
His comments drew a response from Warden Kartel’s father, who defended the lyrics and suggested that A Pass was using the controversy to seek attention.
But A Pass dismissed the suggestion that he felt threatened by the young performer or feared losing his place in Uganda’s music industry.
“I don’t feel bad for Warden Kartel and it’s not that he is taking my position. If you have sense you can’t think like this. I speak from a perspective of people with sense,” A Pass said.
He added that his criticism was meant to help the young artiste reconsider his content and protect his future in the industry.
“This helps him if he cleans up and some of us are well — we have families and some money. So it helps him,” he said.
A Pass maintained that his comments were informed by experience, arguing that Warden Kartel could benefit from guidance as he builds his career.
The exchange has brought renewed attention to questions about parental guidance, creative freedom and the responsibility of adults managing the careers of children in Uganda’s entertainment industry.
