Debate is growing in Uganda’s music industry after music executive Nyanzi Martin Luther and singer Badboy Kapeke questioned the rising trend of international collaborations among local artists.
At the center of the discussion is the “Morocco” remix by Joshua Baraka featuring Jamaican star Shenseea.
While some fans argue the remix boosts Uganda’s global visibility, Nyanzi believes such collaborations may not necessarily translate into a true international breakthrough.
“Joshua Baraka is not a celebrity in Uganda but rather outside Uganda. If you ask people who don’t follow music, you’ll see the difference,” Nyanzi said.
He argued that Uganda is yet to produce a fully established international music star and urged the industry to strengthen its domestic market before celebrating cross-border collaborations.
Badboy Kapeke also weighed in, saying collaborations should be based on mutual respect rather than hype.
“I cannot work with Shenseea unless she appreciates me. But I can work with Joshua,” Kapeke said.
Kapeke further claimed that he currently does not see any Nigerian artist worth collaborating with, describing many as having “fallen,” though he noted he remains open to working with select Ugandan musicians.
The remarks have sparked mixed reactions online, with some defending international collaborations as smart business moves, while others say the comments reveal underlying pride, tension, and competition within the music industry.
As the debate continues, questions remain over whether Uganda’s music industry is steadily stepping onto the global stage or still struggling with internal divisions and identity.
