Ugandan rapper Jocelyne Tracy Keko, popularly known as Keko, has voiced her frustration with Ugandan DJs, accusing them of not showing enough love for their country’s music industry. Her remarks have sparked a heated debate about patriotism, cultural pride, and the challenges faced by local artists in gaining recognition at home.
DJs Prioritize Foreign Music Over Ugandan Talent
Keko, a celebrated rapper and one of Uganda’s music icons, criticized local DJs for prioritizing foreign music over Ugandan works. She pointed out that while DJs freely play genres like Amapiano — a popular music style originating from South Africa — they demand payment to feature Ugandan songs. This, she argues, highlights a lack of genuine support for the local music industry.
“In Uganda, people often say they love their country, but their actions tell a different story. For instance, DJs feel comfortable playing Amapiano, yet they expect to be paid to play Ugandan music,” Keko remarked.
Her statements have ignited discussions on social media, with fans and artists alike weighing in on the double standards within Uganda’s entertainment scene. Many agree that local DJs need to do more to uplift Ugandan music and give it the same enthusiasm and airtime as they do for foreign genres.
The Struggles of Returning Home
Keko also opened up about the challenges she faced upon returning to Uganda after spending six years in Canada. The rapper expressed disappointment in how some of her former collaborators treated her, expecting her to start her career from scratch despite her significant contributions to the music industry.
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“I left Uganda and went to Canada for six years. When I returned, the people I had worked with wanted me to start from scratch, which seemed unrealistic to me,” Keko revealed.
Her experience sheds light on the struggles many Ugandan artists face when they attempt to reintegrate into the local scene after spending time abroad. The lack of continuity and support can make it difficult for returning artists to regain their footing.
The Bigger Picture: Supporting Ugandan Music
Keko’s frustrations echo a broader issue within the Ugandan music industry: the lack of consistent support and appreciation for local talent. Despite the country boasting a vibrant music scene with unique sounds and styles, Ugandan artists often find it challenging to compete with the dominance of foreign genres on local airwaves.
Many believe that DJs play a critical role in shaping public tastes and promoting local music. By giving more airtime to Ugandan songs, DJs can help elevate homegrown talent and foster a sense of pride in the country’s cultural heritage. However, this requires a shift in mindset and a collective effort from all stakeholders in the entertainment industry.
The Call for Change
Keko’s candid remarks have struck a chord with many Ugandans who share her sentiments. Fans have taken to social media to call out DJs and other industry players for not doing enough to promote Ugandan music. Some have even suggested creating initiatives to incentivize the promotion of local talent, such as organizing events that exclusively feature Ugandan artists or introducing policies that require a certain percentage of local music on radio and in clubs.
Additionally, artists themselves are being urged to collaborate more and create high-quality content that can compete on both local and international stages. By working together, artists, DJs, and other industry stakeholders can help build a more robust and self-sustaining music industry.
Conclusion
Keko’s criticism of Ugandan DJs has sparked an important conversation about the need to support and promote local music. Her call for greater patriotism and respect for Ugandan artists is a wake-up call for the entire entertainment industry. By valuing and uplifting homegrown talent, Uganda can ensure that its music continues to thrive both locally and globally.
As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the future of Ugandan music depends on the collective effort of all stakeholders to prioritize and celebrate the unique sounds and talents that the country has to offer. Whether through increased airplay, collaborative initiatives, or simply showing more appreciation for local artists, the time for change is now.
