Veteran singer Viboyo is using his experience to urge fellow artists not to rely solely on music as their only source of income. He emphasizes the importance of diversifying revenue streams to ensure financial stability in the industry.
Challenges in the Ugandan Music Industry
Viboyo points out that the Ugandan music industry is structured in a way that requires artists to perform live to make a living. Income is primarily generated through stage performances and online streaming, making financial security a challenge for many musicians.
Encouraging Business Investments
To overcome these limitations, Viboyo advises artists to explore other business opportunities beyond music, such as fashion and other entrepreneurial ventures.
“As artists, we look for money in concerts or private events, but if we had leverage, like selling merchandise, we could have more avenues for generating income from our art,” Viboyo said in an interview.
Concerns Over the Quality of Music Today
Viboyo also expressed concern over the decline in the quality of lyrical messages in modern music. He believes that political influences and financial incentives have taken precedence, affecting the depth and meaning of contemporary songs.
Despite this trend, he acknowledges that message-driven music still exists. Some artists, like King Saha, continue to produce music with strong messages, even while navigating political engagements.
Final Thought
Viboyo encourages both artists and audiences to seek out meaningful music and support creative ventures beyond performances. By diversifying their efforts, artists can sustain long-term success while maintaining artistic integrity.
