Even in the world of pastries and baked delights, music finds a way to reign supreme. For Jonathan Walinda, a talented 23-year-old Ugandan chef based in Saudi Arabia, Ugandan music remains the sweetest melody that keeps him connected to home. While he acknowledges the industry’s strengths, he also believes there are necessary changes to propel it to even greater heights.
Who Is Jonathan Walinda?
Born to Norah Namuddu and Francis Walinda, Jonathan is a professional chef specializing in bakery and pastry arts. Raised in Uganda alongside his sister, Jonathan attended Kakiri Secondary School before embarking on a career abroad that has seen him rise as a talented and respected chef in Saudi Arabia.
Despite his culinary expertise, Jonathan remains rooted in his Ugandan heritage, which is reflected in his love for rice with any soup, his favorite meal, and his unwavering support for Ugandan music.
Music Preferences: Bubblegum Pop and Ugandan Stars
When it comes to music, Jonathan has a clear preference: bubblegum music—a catchy and upbeat genre designed to stay in listeners’ minds, even if only for a short while. His favorite Ugandan artists include:
- Pallaso
- Pastor Wilson Bugembe
- Goodlyfe Crew
He also gives special recognition to the Mayanja family, acknowledging their significant contribution to Uganda’s music scene.
For Jonathan, these artists embody the vibrant and dynamic nature of Ugandan music, making it a source of joy and pride for him while living abroad.
“Separate Music from Politics”
Jonathan believes one of the biggest challenges facing Uganda’s music industry is the influence of politics. Like many critics, he feels that political involvement has hindered the industry’s progress.
“The Ugandan music industry should leave politics in order to be successful like other countries,” he emphasizes.
This sentiment echoes the views of many stakeholders who believe that depoliticizing music could open doors to greater creativity, collaboration, and international recognition.
Balancing Work and Staying Connected
Despite his busy life as a chef, Jonathan makes it a priority to return to Uganda every ten months to reconnect with family and friends. During these visits, he enjoys unwinding at Kaazi Resort Beach, Busabala, his favorite spot in the country. The serene environment, coupled with his love for Ugandan music, provides the perfect escape from his demanding schedule abroad.
Ugandan Music Industry: Opportunities for Growth
Jonathan’s observations about the industry highlight areas for growth. By focusing on creative freedom, global collaborations, and leaving politics behind, Ugandan music could solidify its place on the international stage. Artists like Pallaso and the Mayanja family have already paved the way, proving that Ugandan talent has what it takes to compete globally.
Final Thoughts
Jonathan Walinda’s story is a testament to the universal power of music. Even while living thousands of miles away, Ugandan music remains a key part of his identity and connection to home. His passion for supporting local artists and advocating for a depoliticized industry reflects a hope shared by many fans and stakeholders—that Ugandan music will continue to thrive and gain the global recognition it deserves.
