BY SALIM SEGAWA
Apparently, 2013 is a year of good music and particularly Ugandan hip-hop. From different artistes releasing awesome singles, mixtapes and albums to signing management deals worth millions, we are certain that Uganda has more content to offer. Early this year, St Nelly Sade whose lugaflow lyrics have charmed many, released his debut album titled ‘The Translation,’ a music project that received immense response, others followed suit.
Now let me give you an insight on some of the top ten hip-hop albums to expect this year. No order followed.
1. Enygmatic – Enygma
Enygmatic is the title of Enygma’s debut studio album that will be available in October, a few months from now. In the past months, Enygma’s lyricism and wordplay have helped him to crawl into the Top five MCs in Uganda. His previous music projects have been a mirror of his reign. This album is worth waiting for as we expect it to have a unique sound.
Release Date: October
2. Victory Music – Ruyonga
He was recently listed among the top ten best MCs in Africa by DSTV, that’s an honor for his work already. Expect this album to sound conscious as Ruyonga tries to tell a story of his life through rapping. Having heard one of the projects off this project i.e ‘Tutuuse,’ we can all visualize the direction this album is taking.
Release Date: 9th August
3. Destination: Africa – The Mith
Known for his braggadocios steelo, the Klear Kut quarter and Kinetic Management signee’s sophomore album is worth the hype. With almost Vlog episodes of its making taking rounds in internet, The Mith has an African sound package for you. Expect different tradition percussion, live instruments and of course cohesive lyrics. His latest song ‘Winner’ tells the rest of the story… Did you listen to his debut album ‘The Week of September?’ mehn!
Release Date: N/A
4. I’m Benezeri – Benezeri
This highly anticipated music project is Benezeri’s second major project after his earlier released mixtape ‘Fighting Spirits.’ Judging from his previous work, Benezeri has something boisterous, lyrical and yet funky to deliver. Still juggling independently, Benezeri will treat his fans to an album release party at Jazzville Bugolobi.
Release Date: 11th July
5. Lift Off – AirporTaxi
This three member music group has been on there twos ever since they made a debut entry. Starting off as lucky winners of a talent show, AirporTaxi have thrilled every urban music fanatic. The sound of their music is urban and so are they. Apparently, Lift Off is their debut album and yes, they are investing in their best to deliver.
Release Date: N/A
6. M.A.D.E – M.A.D.E (Lyrikal Proof)
Late last year, he surprised his fans when he announced his new stage name as M.A.D.E. But he had a plan laid already. Lyrikal Proof who is under GuudEnuff Urban Records is working on his debut album titled “M.A.D.E.” an acronym for ‘Me And Destiny Eternal.’ Expect a fresh sound of Ugandan hip-hop.
Release Date: N/A
7. Klear Kut Reunion – Klear Kut
These guys have been illustrious ever since ‘All I Wanna Know.’ Apparently, these guys are working on a reunion album that will see the whole team together again. We should expect a lot, sorry A LOT from these guys. Their solo projects have helped them master their inner abilities.
Release Date: N/A
8. Trouble – Navio
With already two solo albums under his belt, the Rubaga crooner is set to release third solo album this year. From the look of things, his third album is taking the pop sound direction, something that might hype this album’s demand. Have you heard ‘Trouble’ yet? Google it man…
Release Date: N/A
9. ForePl@y – Santana
He came from hiding, rapped and conquered. Still swagging on his three master piece songs, Santana promises to release album this year. Don’t forget to keep him on the check.
Release Date: N/A
10. Kafulu Xenson.
Xenson, one of the pioneers of hip-hop in Uganda is working on sophomore album. His debut album ‘Villanguage’ is amazing; he managed to sell 400+ copies of his conscious hip-hop album in two weeks… Damn! That’s impressive.
Release Date: N/A
Twitter: @LostInKampala