Ugandan music legend Moses Ssali, popularly known as Bebe Cool, has responded to critics and fellow artists who continue to refer to him as an “upcoming artist”—and surprisingly, he’s not offended by the label. In fact, he’s owning it.
In a bold and heartfelt interview, the “Wire Wire” hitmaker revealed that he considers himself an “upcoming artist for life”—until he reaches the personal goals he set when he first entered the music industry.
“People and some artists who say I am an upcoming artist—yes, all my career and entire life, I will continue being an upcoming artist until I reach my target,” Bebe Cool declared.
Still Not There Yet?
Despite decades in the game, countless awards, and a dedicated fan base, Bebe Cool insists he’s still climbing.
According to him, success isn’t just about fame or longevity—it’s about achieving deeply personal milestones, and he admits he’s still far from done.
“That is why I still work hard. If artists who are global like Burna Boy still go on media tours, who am I not to hustle?”
Inspired by Burna Boy’s Hustle
Bebe Cool drew inspiration from Nigerian superstar Burna Boy, who—despite his global recognition—continues to grind, do interviews, and push his music.
He pointed out that even A-list international acts never get too comfortable, and neither will he.
“Burna Boy is known all over the world, but he still does media tours, still talks to fans on the streets. That’s the spirit I admire.”
Critics, Take Note
In recent times, several younger artists in Uganda have thrown subtle (and not-so-subtle) shade at Bebe Cool—calling him “washed,” “out of touch,” or “still trying.”
But instead of clapping back with beef, Bebe Cool is flipping the narrative.
“So those young artists of Uganda who had started that Kaboozi of saying Bebe is an upcoming artist, I am surely an upcoming artist. For them, they made it already. They are successful and stable. But me? I haven’t reached my level yet.”
It’s a statement that not only humbles—but also quietly flexes the mindset of a veteran still hungry for greatness.
The Internet Reacts
Social media lit up with reactions from fans and fellow musicians:
“Real talk! That’s the growth mindset right there!”
“Bebe Cool still outworks some of these youngins. Respect the grind.”
“Being relevant for this long? He’s doing something right.”
Others took a more humorous route:
“Upcoming since Nokia phones were popping? Let’s all be upcoming, then!”
Why It Matters
In an industry where ego often outshines humility, Bebe Cool’s self-awareness stands out. It’s not every day that an established artist openly admits they haven’t “made it” yet, even when they clearly have the resume to prove otherwise.
His words send a powerful message to both up-and-coming and seasoned artists: Never stop setting goals. Never stop growing.
Final Word from Bebe Cool
“I will keep being an upcoming artist—because the moment you think you’ve arrived, you stop pushing.”
Do you agree with Bebe Cool’s mindset?
Should artists ever feel like they’ve “made it”? Or is constant hunger the real key to longevity?
Sound off in the comments and keep the convo going on The Pop Radar (TPR)—your #1 source for unfiltered celeb stories, music moves, and behind-the-scenes realness.
