By Moses Abeka
”There is more politics in the music industry than in the parliament”, goes Bobi Wine’s on spot analysis of the local music industry.
The industry may not be so diverse but so complicated. The law of the jungle rules supreme as almost every artiste strives to set up a kingdom and an album launch or a hit song is equivalent to a coronation ceremony of sorts! (No wonder many artistes have adopted animal stage names)
So we have dancehall queens, hip hop kings, kadongo kamu chief… blah… blah… While this may stimulate competitive spirit, when your block falls, the high wall separates you from the fans. Left in the cold, our affection and warmth is needed. We are humans, be it a celebrity. We are all susceptible to err.
While steadily climbing the ladder to super stardom, Rabadaba, slipped and is yet to get on his foot again since the controversial incident involving the deceased Ras Thaddeus.
At the time he needed his fans the most, they turned their backs on him despite the new remorseful and laid back ”Luga raga” king’s behavior.
Away from home, at almost the same timing, Chris Brown slipped; landing bad press and radio play black out. However, the understanding fans got him back in the spot light. One wonders what would have happened if he were Ugandan!
Is our national political history a portrayal of our society? Are Ugandans so forgiving? Closer to home, Iryn Namubiru walked through hell as fellow artistes remained tight lipped when she was behind bars in Japan.
But the history is not all gloom. Chameleone has enjoyed a soft spot several times despite physical abuses and related incidences. Could we extend the same hand of affection and heal as a nation? Are we so unforgiving?
