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VOL.1 ISSUE NO. 010 APRIL 2015 RISING STAR:NAWGI
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Contents 132
GADGETS AND STYLE: THE MITH
08 94 96 110 118
Parties and events What happened where, who was there? As usual, we bring to you all the action! Ask Rwamiti Our veteran columnist discusses the issue of concerts, Album launches and lister's parties for artistes. SPECIAL FEATURE Are listener’s parties replacing music concerts in Uganda? FASHION SHOOT Multi-talented Ugandan singer A Pass is also a sharp dresser. Here, he shares what he's got for us! SPECIAL FEATURE: PLAN B Do our local celebrities have a plan B incase of eventualities? Or its a case of all eggs in one basket?
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LYRICS CORNER Nutty Neithan is slowly making his mark on the music scene. His new song 'Bakwe kyonywa' is featured. STUDIO DIARY Former Blue 3 member Lilian Mbabazi is back with 'Kuma Obudde'. Whats the story behind the song? CAREER CORNER Gaetano Jjuko Kagwa is a man of all trades. He's been here and he's been there. Just what is he upto now? GADGETS AND STYLE Hip-hop maestro and new SMASH presenter Tom 'The Mith' Mayanja talks about his favourite gadgets. TRIBUTE We have a special tribute to fallen dance-hall star AK-47.May his soul Rest In Peacd.
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INFORM. ENTERTAIN. EXCITE
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ALL THE HIP EVENTS COVERED
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SONG: KUMA OBUDDE
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PHOTO SHOOT: A PASS
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RISING STAR We introduce to you Swang Avenue's latest signing Winnie Nwagi. COUNT DOWN As usual, we count down the top hits rocking the country on the air waves REVIEWS Special song, video, movie and band reviews for you to checkout including smath hit song 'Wuuyo' by A Pass'" WHAT'S ON All the major upcoming events and parties in the entertainment scene
FORWARD
PUBLISHER’S CREDITS
Chano8
DIGITAL MAGAZINE
FOREWORD
W
elcome to the tenth edition of Chano8. The year seems to be in a rush isn’t it? Just recently we were celebrating Christmas yet two months later; half the year will be gone.
Unfortunately, it has been a rather sad beginning to the year for the entertainment industry after so many notables went to be with the lord.
CREATIVE EDITOR
Ruva Roy Collins ruva@chano8.com
staff writer
Gloria Batuta
staff writer
Kahuma Walter
managING DIRECTOR
David Mushabe
DIRECTOR FINANCE BUSINESS DEVelopment
gloria@chano8.com
walter@chano8.com
david@chano8.com
Elizabeth K. Mushabe
elizabeth@chano8.com
Noreen Munabi
noreen@chano8.com
The industry lost dance hall star AK47, Bobi Wine, Coco Finger and Koona presenter Miles Rwamiti lost their dads, Veteran radio and TV Journalists Dan Kyazze and Bbale Francis as well as NTV’s pioneer news anchor RaseMary Nankabirwa all passed on. Not to mention Gagamel Diehard fan Faith Katushabe and Juliana Kanyomozi’s dear fan Owori Vincent in addition to Harriet Kisakye who have all left us this year. May their souls rest in eternal peace. This is not to say it’s been all gloom and tears as we still had lots of happy moments and celebrations as life has to continue. We have exclusive interviews with celebrated radio and TV personality Gaetano Gaggwa, New star A Pass who share thier life’s journeys and career aspirations. Don’t miss all the hip events and colourful pictorials, columnist Miles Rwamiti, Studio Diary, Gadgets and style, Reviews and music countdowns among others. Cheers!
The Chano8 Team
Chano8 Magazine is a brand of Speeda Mobile Ltd All rights reserved. Plot 1-3 Coral Crescent Lower Kololo Terrace P. O. Box 25780 Kampala Uganda, E. AFRICA
chano8.com info@chano8.com chano8 @chano8 www.chano8.com
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Chano8 WUUYO PREMIERE
WUUYO
NEW KID A PASS
I support A Pass. The fans seem to say
Talented star A pass was selected as the first to kick-start the Guvnor theme night ‘Frenzy Friday’, which was hosted by NTV’s Douglas Lwanga and the fans responded in big numbers to support their own.
Michael Ross(L) with other fans join A pass
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Things got off to a slow start probably because the crowd was still in mourning mood after the shocking demise of dance-hall star A4 47 earlier in the week. But at about half past midnight, things got off to gear two with Lwanga starting by introducing the latest star on the music scene. The first session was dedicated to the fallen star as a tribute was
Chano8. April 2015
WUUYO PREMIERE Chano8
WUUYO
PREMIERES VIDEO
Some fans took to drinks
Fans dance to 'Wuuyo' at Guvnor
organised with some highlights and last interviews were compiled and relayed on screen for the fans. After the tribute to AK, The stage was then set for the man of the night and star of the moment A Pass who talked about his budding career and new song ‘Wuuyo’ in a recorded video message to the fans. He was then invited on stage to perform a few songs like 'Am loving' and ‘Tulikubigere’ before unveiling the ‘Wuuyo’ song which is a love song that he dedicated to the ladies. The light moment was when he introduced his father to the fans.
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Iryn Namubiru (L) with pals
Chano8 WUUYO PREMIERe
DOVEY-DOVEY AFFAIR
Watchout for Wuuyo coming up next
Dave Dash (C) giving his support
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A Couple displays affection
WUUYO PREMIERe Chano8
AT CLUB GUVNOR
A Pass with fans
NTV's Robin Kristi joins in the fun
Dad was there to support
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Chano8 BUZZ TEENIES NEW TROPHY
unveiling a THE NEW BUZZ TEENE
Irene Ntale (C) poses with Ushers
The new trophy being unveiled
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he Buzz Teeniez awards are back and this year’s edition is scheduled to take place on Saturday 2nd of May at Kati Kati restaurant in Lugogo. Mountain Dew has sunk Shs100 million into this year’s edition dubbed; THE DORO EDITION. “Mountain Dew decided to sponsor Buzz Teeniez Awards because we pride ourselves in connecting with our target consumers; for this case the youth,” said Tracy Kakuru, the brand executive, who represented Mountain Dew Brand Manager Berna Kizza at the launch in Kampala re-
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cently. “We are also proudly associated with these awards because they are acknowledged by the entertainment industry. Therefore, building on their year-on-year success we believe they have once again proved to be one of the best award events in Uganda and the best platform to associate with,” she added. At the launch, a new trophy was also unveiled. With over six years holding the prestigious awards mainly targeted for the high school kids, Buzz Teeniez Awards has now decided
BUZZ TEENIES NEW TROPHY Chano8
new trophy Z AWARDS TROPHY
The events DJs enjoy the moment
to make a few amendments to make them bigger and better starting this year. The organizers of the awards have decided to change the trophy or call it accolade from a wooden look to a more quality chrome and granite. “We unveiled a new trophy for Buzz Teeniez Awards. The new trophy is in line with the fact that the event has come of age and wanted to make an authentic award unique to BTA. This award has been designed for Buzz
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and cannot be replicated for another event. The award is made of high quality Chrome and Granite, resistant to extreme weather conditions and corrosion. It weighs 3,125g and stands at 300mm high,” said a statement from the organizers. The new trophy was unveiled to the youth from different secondary schools in a tour that introduced the ultra modern plague. St. Joseph’s Nsambya SS is one such school where students were treated to free entertainment and drinks. Song bird Irene Ntale graced the unveiling alongside some officials from Crown beverages.
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Irene Ntale entertains fans
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Ntale's queen dancer shows off her sexy moves
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She danced and won Mountain Dew goodies
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This is our Mountain Dew swag
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Chano8 BUZZ TEENIES NEW TROPHY
BUZZ TEEN
Students enjoy the show
These young stars attempted some Michael Jackson moves
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Sharing a bottle of Dew
BUZZ TEENIES NEW TROPHY Chano8
IEZ DANCE
The excited students applaud the dancers
A student takes on the MC
They displayed serious skills on stage
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Chano8 EGYPTIAN DINNER
PARTY Egyptians Showcase Minister Nassasira (R) is inducted
When the Egyptian community hosted high ranking governement officlas for a state dinner, the evening turned colorful as traditional belly dancers and entertainers took centre stage with clitter.
The crowd cheers on the performances
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The dinner was graced by Third deputy prime miister Gen. Moses Ali and Information and Communication Technology minister John Nassaira. We have captured some of the colorful moments.
EGYPTIAN DINNER Chano8
TIME Super Dance Moves These guests were attentive The intricate performaces on stage
Thinking about the amazing dancers Capturing the moment
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CHANO8 MAGAZINE
The belly dancer who mesmerized
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They were a joy to behold
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Chano8 EGYPTIAN DINNER
And Minister Join i They looked surprised
Taking photos for memores
The ladies enjoying themselves
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EGYPTIN DINNER Chano8
n the celebartions Some of the invited guests
Second Deputy prime Mininster Moses Ali joined with stat minister for finance Fred Jachan Omach
She was scared by the 'donkey'
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Kenneth Kimuli aka Pablo performs
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CHANO8 MAGAZINE
PABLO LIVE Chano8
PABLO LIVE NIGHT Comedian dedicates special night to women as appreciation Pablo live is a comedy show hosted by celebrated Ugandan comedian Kenneth Kimuli aka Pablo. His last edition was different from the others because he hosted some special guests. Chano8 captured the moments.
T
here was extra energy exhibited at Pablo live hosted by Kenneth Kimuli aka Pablo in the last edition of the Monthly show at National theatre and it was a full house as fans turned up in big numbers to see what new tricks the funny man had up his sleeves this time round They were not disappointed at the show under the theme ‘Unbwoogable Women’ which was a new twist from the usual satirical themes based on politics and tribal sentiments. This time, it was a celebration of women as March was the month dedicated to women and women issues' of emancipation and empowerment as well as celebrating the achievements. In attendance was the newly appointed State Minister for youth and children affairs, Evelyn Anite and her husband Kampala central
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RDC Allan Kajik as well as traffic police officer Sgt. Modesta Akello who was engaged in a live interview with a comical twist by the host live on stage. “This month, I wanted to celebrate some of the women that have made an impact in society and who are exemplary leaders,” Pablo said. Trust Pablo for taking advantage of situations as he cracked the ribs of the audience by climbing on a chair so as to hug the touring police officer. Many people in the audience were left in a bout of laughter and tears. He had the crowd cracked to tears when he asked for a chair to hug Sgt Akello, popular for her towering frame and deication to work. Anite who got the audience laughing as well was in cracking mood as she narrated her life story and political journey and aspirations for the future. She made fun of herself
when she highlighted one of the key moments of her political career that took place in Kyankwanzi when she knelt in front of the president to beg him to stand as a sole candidate for NRM in 2016. “The reason I knelt before the President was a show of respect for him, it also stems back to my upbringing {from Westnile} and you see where it has got me now,” Anite joked. Pablo who was accompanied by fellow stand-up comedians Daniel Omara and Conan Tumusiime, treated the crowd to three hours of well delivered jokes that left many gooze bumped and a few teary eyes and stomachs aching. Not to forget was also electrifying musical performances from new gospel artiste Solome Basuuta and a dance performance from Roz Merrie of the Roz Merrie and Viccy dance duo, who added charm to the rather comedic night.
Chano8 PABLO LIVE
TOUGH: Bruno K. and Allan Toniks belt out ballads Pablo stands on a chair inorder to hug Akello
Youth Minister Evelyn Anite and husband Allan Kajik enjoying.
Daniel Omara (R) getting cozy The interview: Akello takes questions from Pablo
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PABLO LIVE Chano8
Gospel singer Solome performing
DANCE: Brenda Nantongo displays smooth moves
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Pablo with Roz Merrie showcase rare dance moves
Chano8 SINACH IN UGANDA
SINACH Christians at Miracle
members receiving the power of the holy spirit
Sinach performs alongside children and the choir
Nigerian gospel singer Sinach (born Osinachi Kalu) last month thrilled Christians at Pastor Robert Kayanja’s Miracle Centre Cathedral in Kansanga a Kampala suburb. The award winning musical artiste and song-writer who has written more than 200 songs moved the congregation with powerful vocals in a two-hour praise and worship session. Memebers of the congragation deep in worship
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Her popular song ‘This is your Season' got the whole church singing and dancing. The host Kayanja was in attendance with his family members as well as local leaders
Chano8. April 2015
SINACH IN UGANDA Chano8
EXCITES Centre Cathedral
TEARS: When the worship session got emotional
Kayanja poses with children
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Pastor Robert Kayanja and wife Jessica enjoy with family
Chano8 A NIGHT IN VEGAS
bebe Rocks @ A Special The ushers display bottles of Johny Walker
T Cool.
he classy theme night ‘A night in Vegas returned at club Guvnor where interesting things happened. First of all the whole setting and outlook of Guvnor situated at industrial area was changed to suit the theme. Then there was Bebe
Although things started at a slow pace with guests and revellers starting to show up at 11 PM, things got interesting at around midnight when bouncers dressed like Italian/Roman guards appeared and took positions at the entrance of the club followed shortly by skimpily dressed ushers. The guests, mostly young ladies then started flowing in close to 1:00AM dressed to kill, Most of
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Bebe Cool gets jiggy
them adhering to the dress code of black and gold. When the ushers started wheeling in the VIP guests, the ambience of the night changed. With flares sparkling the nightclub from the beautiful ushers, guests arrived in one after the other until the man of the Night Bebe Cool rolled in with his Gagamel crew at 2AM. He did not take long to have a feel of Vegas created in the heart of Kampala as the DJs and MC of the night announced he was next. Bebe Cool decided to perform mostly his new songs off his upcoming “Go Mama album’. Although the crowd is not yet familiar with most
A NIGHT IN VEGAS Chano8
cool Night In 'Vegas' A couple gets lovey-dovey
of the songs, Bebe continued the trend and even taught the fans the chorus to one of his favourite songs ‘African Woman’ also written by New kid on the block A Pass. So when the crowd got in the mood after Bebe performed ‘Everywhere I go’ he knew it was time to do the award winning block buster song song ‘Love You Every day. The fans got excited and took to the floor with some singing along as Bebe mixed and mingled easily. He took on the glamour girls who dominated the dance floor with some erotic dance moves before fizzling off to enjoy the classy atmosphere of Vegas inspired by American high-end casino
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life-style that many people crave to experience before they die. Just next to the dance floor was a corner reserved for the 'Rich Gang' who were in attendance with their leader Ivan Ssemwanga trying so hard to steal the limelight in a very difficult period in which rumors were making rounds that his estranged wife Zari Hassan had tied the knot with Tanzanian singer Diamond Platinumz. He kept buying expensive booze and throwing cash as usuall only this time, he took it to another level by getting closer to the revellers who kept staring at his gang in the hope of getting some cash.
Chano8 A NIGHT IN VEGAS
Ssemwanga Buys 4Mill
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Ivan receives the Johnnie Walker Gold Reserve bottles that were brought in a golden briefcase, cuffed to an usher's wrist.
This is it: A lady shows off the Johny Walker
Excited party girls pose for our camera
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2
Ivan is then handed the keys to open the hancuffs. He opens the lock and unchains her wrist.
A NIGHT IN VEGAS
ion Golden Booze...
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There you go. He finally relaxes after receiving his drinks in good condition
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Let the party start: Ivan picks the golden bottles of Johny Walker to kick-start the fun
What happens in Vegas.... Bebe Cool sings with a female fan
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OKUZAALA KUJAGAANA
Billy Ocean doing his thing DANCE: Namatovu's song has become a favourite of
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BILLY OCEAN CONCERT Chano8
BILLY OCEAN THRILLS REVELERS AT KAMPALA SERENA HOTEL
B
Billy Ocean was in Kampala to 'turn back the clock' for fans over the Easter weekend. Fans who thronged the show left yearning for more after the two-hour non-stop performance excited many.
illy Ocean thrilled revellers over the Easter and many revelers will not forget the British singer taking them down memory lane as he performed some of the crowd’s favourite songs like 'Caribbean Queen', 'The colour of Love', 'Suddenly' among others. The crowd had nothing but praises for the legendary singer with most stating the show was worth every penny (300,000/=) paid. The 65-year old British-born Entertainer gave a very powerful but composed performance. His love ballads had fans on their feet especially “The colour of love”, which got the crowd heated up before performing his chart-topping hit ‘Caribbean Queen’ as the fans sang along.
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With the entry fee an issue in the buildup to the show, there was worry that the show could flop as the fee is on a higher end for many Ugandans. However, slowly the fans trickled in and eventually filled Kampala Serena Hotel’s Victoria Hall. The show started on as a low key event with majority of the audience above the 'youth age ' seated quite. However, when MC of the night comedian Alex Muhangi who also doubled as an organiser took to stage, he cracked a few jokes that warmed up the relaxed audience to set the stage for the veteran Soul/ RnB singer. Many fans also got a chance to win freebies from the sponsors of the night. So when the aging grey haired but extremely talented Billy Ocean fi-
nally took to stage, he proved that he can still sing despite his advanced age. TRACY BORA RAISES EYE BROWS The revellers also got extra entertainment from city socialite Tracy Bora who turned up in a black fish-net seethrough outfit that kept many people open-mouthed. The confident Bora made an outrageous fashion statement that displayed everything and left nothing to imagination with many wondering what had become of her. Although some observers commented that, Bora was out to show off her post baby body recovery, she seemed to have out done herself just like UK based Ugandan model Eva Mbabazi once did. What ever the case from the fashion angle, the show was a succes with revellers looking happy with what they had enjoyed from the performances.
Chano8 BILLY OCEAN CONCERT
Dressed
Tracy Bora raised eyebrows with this fish-net outfit
Simple but elegant in red Casual smart: Irene Ntale and pals in Black and white
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BILLY OCEAN CONCERT Chano8
To Kill?...
Rahma Mbabzi aka Lucky in a free flowing marternity dress
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Smart: They chose-hugging velvet and satin dresses
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Chano8 BILLY OCEAN CONCERT
Historical Sho
Comedian and MC Alex Muhangi
g the winners
Alex selectin
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BILLY OCEAN CONCERT Chano8
w Excites
la Veteran DJ Alex Ndau r ea n's whispers into Ocea
Magic of the saxophone spills over
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Chano8 BILLY OCEAN CONCERT
DIFFERENT FAC
Billy Ocean put up a powerful two-hour performance at Kampala Serena Hotel
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BILLY OCEAN CONCERT Chano8
ES , SAME VOICE
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Chano8 BILLY OCEAN CONCERT
The revelers came from all over the country and enjoyed themselves to the maximum as many took to the floor and danced
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BILLY OCEAN CONCERT Chano8
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Chano8 FAST AND FURIOUS 7
PREMIERES
Navio feels the fast and furious love
Urban TV's Cynthia was in a groupfie
Checki.com in partnership with Vivo Energy Uganda, hosted the much anticipated East African premiere of the action-packed movie Fast and Furious 7 at 3D Cinema Magic, Metroplex Shopping Mall in Nalya, Kampala.
Comedian Dolibondo (R) joined in the fun
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The mini-series features some top Holywood stars like Jason Statham, Tyrese Gibson, Vin Diesel, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson and many others where Movie enthusiasts and lovers of fast cars thronged the ultra modern hall to witness the much awaited action . Some of our very own local celebrities were in the crowd and we captured some magical moments over the busy Easter weekend
FAST AND FURIOUS 7 Chano8
Cheki's Roland Niwagaba
Keko and fan also furious
Ruyonga thinking about late Paul Walker?
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Chano8 EAST AFRICAN CARNIVAL
Fire @
E. AFRICAN CARNIVAL
As Bebe Cool and his Gagamel Band entertained fans at the annual event
It was a funfare family affair on Easter Monday as hordes of Gagamel fans filled up Kiwatule Recreation Centre for the annual East African Carnival.
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aster Weekend had some tension bulding up as police patrolled the city and some suburbs after a terror alert. The threat followed massive killings in Kenya where Al Shabab terrorists massacred innocent students at a Garissa University. However, this did not deter the determined fans and Easter holiday makers who poured and filled the recreation grounds in big numbers. The venue was filled with many vendors selling a variety of items ranging from food stuff to drinks. Being a public holiday, many families took advantage of the break from busy work schedules to relax and have some fun together. Therefore, the show kicked off as early as 7pm with different upcoming artistes entertaining the crowd and showcasing their potential. As it approached 8:30pm, the major artistes stepped on stage with their performances where Haji Haruna
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Mubiru of the’ Kitooke’ fame kicking off the session as fans cheered him on. He performed some of his old songs as well as new songs as fans sang along. However, Phina Mugerwa aka Masanyalaze raised the tempo higher with her electric performances that got the crowd charged with energetic dance moves before concluding her moment with her new song “Shut up” which observers say is directed at her rival Cindy who is said to have snatched a man Ken Mwisa from her. There was confusion when Hip-Hop superstar Keko stepped on stage and did some of her new songs but the crowd was not amused as most of them did not comprehend what she was singing. Many claimed they are only conversant with luganda despite Keko shifting to old songs like ‘This is how we do it’. She then ended by advising the revellers to ‘go to school’ and learn English. Being a Bebe Cool and Gagamel affair, it was not a surprise as main MC Omulangira Ndausi and his comedian colleagues mocked Bebe’s music nemesis Bobi Wine and Fire base crew for having nothing to show as their man tops charts across the
globe with the Gagamel fans cheering on. The much-awaited moment came at midnight as the evening’s host Bebe Cool, clad in dark shades, black Tshirt and black jeans, stepped on stage and the crowd went wild with excitement. He first introduced UK based singer Michael Chris whom he praised for inspiring him in music and being a pioneer modern Ugandan artiste. He then performed some of his popular songs like ‘Fire bon dem’ ‘Agenze’, ‘Nkola Byafayo’, ‘Nyonyi Nkezze’, 'Nkwagala’ and ‘Cococidiosis’ And it is when he started doing his latest songs ‘Everywhere I go’ and ‘Love You Every Day’ that, the crowd got emotional and sang along as he performed alongside the Gagamel band. Other performances of the night came from Santana, GNL Zamba, Mun-G, King Michael, A Pass, Winnie Nwagi, Irene Ntale and Big Eye among others. The show ended at around 1am with an After Party at newly opened Madiba’s Bar in Kiwatule.
CHANO8 MAGAZINE
Bebe Cool sings as a child joins him on stage at Kiwatule
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Gagamel Band members backing up Bebe Cool looked elegant
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Chano8 EAST AFRICAN CARNIVAL
Th e stars Joi n ed
King Michael Host Bebe Cool Mulangira Ndausi
Like father, like son: Henrick Ssali
Fire Brand: Brenda B. New star: A Pass
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EAST AFRICAN CARNIVAL Chano8
Be b e Cool ...
Are you ready?... GNL Zamba
NEW: Winnie Nwagi
Colorful: Kapalaga
Airborne: Mun-G Physically fit: Big Eye
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Aziz 'Azinonya' Azion
CHANO8 MAGAZINE
Bebe Cool shows rare strokes along side Gagamel's base guiterist Fauzik
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Chano8 EAST AFRICAN CARNIVAL
Fi re: Th e Exci t in g
Potential: Young dancers show case
Gagamel band Base guiterist Fauzik does his thing
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Acapella: Bebe Cool doing 'love you Every day' without instrumentation
EAST AFRICAN CARIVAL Chano8
Su p e r Perfroman ces
Bebe Cool introduces Michael Chris (R) to the crwd at Kiwatule
When the Maisha dancers got entangled on stage
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Irene Ntale with her queen dancers were a joy to watch
Chano8 east african carnival
A Lov e an d F
Being a family event, the concert attracted many couples as well as childrean who enjoyed them selves
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east african carnival Chano8
a m i l y Aff a i r
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Zzina AWARDS
Chano8 zzina awARds
WINNERS AND LOSERS AS GOODLYFe, BOBI WINE DOMINATE
The 2nd edition of the annual Zzina awards took place on April 10th at the Theatre La’Bonita with a number of artistes walking away in jubilation while others seemed disappointed with the verdicts. As usual, chano8 was there.
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he Goodlyfe crew of Radio and Weasel were the top achievers this year after scooping four awards that included Best RnB song (Neera), Best music group, song writer of the year (Radio) and Song of the year (Neera) closely followed by Bobi Wine who took the Concert of the year (Size yo) and Inspirational song (Byekwaso) awards. Besides the winners, the night saw some performances from artistes like rising star Nutty Neithan of the 'Bakuwe Kyonywa' fame, Winnie Nwagi from Swangz Avenue and Spice Diana. But the outstanding performances came from Cindy with her ‘Zalawo’ song, A-pass with ‘Wuuyo’ and ‘Tuliku bigere’. Team No Sleep’s Pallaso who first opened up his act with a tribute song to his fallen brother AK47, also performed AK’s 'Tukikolemu' before he concentrated on his own ‘Go down low’ and ‘Twatoba’. It was
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Khalifa Aganaga who climaxed the evening the most with his energetic act and he even went and interacted with the already excited crowd. Other winners of the night included A Pass (Rising star award), Dancehall artiste went to Ziza Bafana, Lugaflow went to Gravity Omuttuju, performance of the year going to Bebe Cool, Nessim won the best producer, Maro scooping the best collabo for ‘Mubi bubi’(Ft David Lutalo), showbiz personality taken by Desire Luzinda and in more competitive categories, Eddie Kenzo beat Bebe Cool, Goodlyfe and Bobi Wine to win the Male Artiste of the year while Sheeba was able to overcome Cindy, Irene Ntale and Spice Diana for the female category as Amooti won the best commedian accolade in a category that had Anne Kansiime, Alex Muhangi and Afande Kelekele. The Honorary award was given to the late Elly Wamala and the award was picked up by her daughter Fiona Wamala.
However, the low point during this year’s awards was that, most big names in the industry didn’t grace them and representatives were seen fetching the awards on their behalf. Artistes like Bobi Wine, Bebe Cool, Chameleone, Goodlyf, Desire Luzinda, Kenzo and Sheeba were all missing. MC Kats, Douglas Lwanga, Leila Kayondo and Hellen Lukoma, Mary Luswata, Roger Mugisha, Salvado, former Miss Uganda Bizu and Innocent Nahabwe, the chairman organizing committee handed over some awards to the winners.
The Honorary award was given to the late Elly Wamala and the award was picked up by her daughter Fiona Wamala.
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Former Miss Uganda Bizzu announcing a winner at the colorful night.
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Chano8 ZZINA AWARDS
Red Carpet a
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ZZINA AWARDS Chano8
nd Fashion ...
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And the Winn
Break through: A Pass Amooti won best comedian award
SMART: Ushers hold the award plagues
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ZZINA AWARDS Chano8
ers are... Daglous Lwanga Presented: Roger Mugisha
Best collaboration: Mubbi Mubbi Top comedians Salvador Idringi, Afande Kelekele and Anne Kansiime join winner Amooti on stage
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Curvy Desire Lusinda sings
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Cindy wowed the crowd with her queen dancers
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Galaxy FM's Mr Mosh.
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Afande Kelekele doing his thing
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These school-girl outfits excited the crowd
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Chano8 ZZINA AWARDS
The Crowd...
Cooling it down with a drink
Salvador and Mary Luswata were all over each other
Time to update social media
Lydia Jazmine (C) gives a standing ovation with pals
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IZZINA AWARDS Chano8
Attention: Fans follow proceedings on stage
It was a full house at Theatre La'Bonita
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Chano8 KABAKA BIRTHDAY DINNER
KABAKA A
A
BUGANDA KING CELEBRAT
fter the Kabaka’s Charity run on Sunday, Monday 13th April marked the culmination of a weekend of celebrations to mark the 60th birthday of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II. There was pomp and glamour as Buganda loyalists, friends and guests thronged Bulange Mengo to join the Buganda leader in celebrations with others lining along the Royal Mile.
The Kabaka flanked by Nnabagereka Sylivia Nagginda, started the day’s activities by touring the Masengere building and planted a tree in commemoration. He also unveiled a monument of a lion erected atop the new Masengere buildding. During the celebrations, President Yoweri Museveni donated a Toyota Land Cruiser VX to the Buganda king as his birthday present which was presented to the Kabaka by Vice President Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi. School children and various local musicians entertained the Kabaka and his guests who included Tooro King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru, the Vice President Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi, Deputy Chief
Kabaka Ronald Mwenda Mutebi II cuts the birthday cake
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KABAKA BIRTHDAY DINNER Chano8
T SIXTY
ES BIRTHDAY IN STYLE
Justice Steven Kavuma, former FDC leader Dr Kizza Besigye, Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago and former premier Apollo Nsibambi among others However, the most colourful event was the birthday dinner that assembled the crème de la crème of the country. The star-studded celebrants included government officials, royals,loyalists, business community and local leaders. It was however, the local artistes who stole the show at the dinner with some top artistes invited to grace the occasion where a few like Bebe Cool, Juliana Kanyomozi Eddie Kenzo (who was with Rema), Geoffrey Lutaaya and wife Irene Namatovu, Dr. Hilderman and Pallaso among others were selected to perform.with some like Bobi Wine turning up with their spouses. Sheebah Karungi turned heads with her dress code and dance moves that left guests startled. Some guests like Buganda Prime minister Peter Mayiga could not resist the temptation of joining her on stage. We present to you the colorful celebrations through the lenses.
HRH The Kabaka with Nabagereka Sylvia Naginda and Tooro King Oyo
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Couples
Sheebah was with Pallaso from TNS
Ghetto President Bobi Wine with wife Berbie
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Frank Gashumba was not with Shiela
KABAKA BIRTHDAY DINNER Chano8
Pairs
Eddie Kenzo was with baby mama Rema
Desire Luzinda with Kirumira Jr.
Roger Mugisha with the cuties pose
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Businessman Godfrey Kirumira at the dinner Doctor Hilderman finally shows up
Dr Martin Aliker with his wife relaxing
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Godfrey Nyaka with wife Charlotte
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KABAKA BIRTHDAY DINNER
This couple looked vey smart and smitten
Desire Luzinda with the girls having fun
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Irene Namatovu dances to 'Okuzaala Kujagaana tunes'
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Eddie Kenzo with his dancers entertain guests at the dinner
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Sheebah Karungi got guests excited as she performed go down low. The Katikiro Peter Mayiga could not resist the temptation and jumped on stage along with Kirumira (L) and business mogul Emmanuel Katongole (R)
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The Party Just
Rema is back from Maternity leave Juliana Kanyomozi
Prince Daudi Kintu Wasajja chats up some guests
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Got Started
Floral: Ghetto president Mubanda Bobi Wine
Myko Ouma (C) and Bebe Cool doing live
The Business community take to the floor
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Chano8 ASK RWAMITI
Q& A
ALBUM LAUNCH OR Miles Rwamiti is a presenter on NTV’s program ‘Kona ne NTV’. He is an authority on music and Ugandan celebrity lifestyles. Every month we select questions from the public about the music industry for him to answer.
U
gandan music and musicians are still undergoing a lot of changes and among those are how our music is promoted. You have to understand why they do what they do. In more developed countries, when an artiste releases a song, they invite a number of various influential names from different media, record labels and distribution firms to listen and give their opinion. That is what they call a listener’s party or gathering. This party or event is aimed at gauging if the song is worth being on the album or headlining a tour. Here In Uganda, the first real album launch was by (Emperor) Orlando, I remember that was when moneybags Micheal Ezra spent alot of money, hence starting this fever of Album launches. An album launch requires at least 6 recorded songs for it to be called a real album. Here, people release a song and organise a concert and dub it an album launch. This is because of the circumstances under which they produce this song. If you ask any songwriter, you will find these artistes come asking for a hit song. They want a song that will sell. So when he finds it, he is in a hurry to premiere or launch, so as to make money before the audience forgets the song.
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They incur a lot of costs, recording, videos and promotions and so they feel the need to capitalize on this 'hit song' before it’s hype dies out and make some money off it. For example Ziza Bafana had a concert at Club Ambiance, Gravity also did a concert at Freedom City within the same month which were both losses for both of them. It also drains a lot to throw this concerts in the long run. If you re-
ASK RWAMITI Chano8
LISTENER'S PARTY? you and also instils discipline. He can take you from small performances to focus on the big events and so on.
member King Saha did a ‘Mulirwana’ concert, it wasn’t an album and he ended up doing a lot of songs that belonged to other artistes despite the fact that ‘Mulirwana’ was a hit song. Most times you will find our artistes launch songs not albums. The artistes have no time to compile a full album after all the hit song they will be riding on will be gone by the time the album is complete. A few artistes have had complete and successful album launches such as Mesach Ssemakula with ‘Abakazi Abaguma’ and Radio and Weasel’s first album at Africana. These concerts sold out. David Lutalo also had a successful show titled ‘Akantu’. But now some of the trending artistes are wisening up and trying to understand the difference between launching an album and a song. Bebe Cool is launching an album this year, he started talking about it last year and he has been in the studio trying and working hard to compile it. From what we hear, it is going to be an upscale and organized event. I hope people will learn from it and
Most times you will find our artists launch songs not albums. The artists have no time to compile a full album after all the hit song they will be riding one will be gone by the time the album is complete. do things properly. Another example is Juliana, she doesn’t just throw concerts around she takes her time. I believe the way forward is clear, they need better management first of all. A manager that cares about the quality of music you’re producing and is not piling onto the pressure to earn money. The right manager is the one that will make you a high value profile, stop you from bar fights change your image to see that it makes money for
Secondly, they need to find other businesses to invest in wisely. Just because an artiste only relies on his music for money, it means he only eats when he performs so he is always broke. They need to plan and save if music is to be sole money earning business. Instead of spending all night in funny bars, rest, sleep and look for new ventures to earn money. For example Bobi Wine might be one of the richest artistes in the country in the next decade, simply because he has invested a lot of his time and effort into farming. Soon he will be selling the country lots of food. There is no reason why these artist es can not acquire different skills to sustain their lives rather than encounter the misfortune of asking the public for help when they fall sick. People also need to marry wisely not just because a girl looks beautiful you marry. They have to marry women that will help them to success and out of poverty. Artistes like Bobi Wine and Silver Kyagulanyi have wives that have helped them rise and stay comfortable. The person that you marry also matters. If you marry someone that costs a lot more than you earn, how do you survive. The venue where you hold your concert also matters, when you understand your audience. It is paramount to know your audience and see where to take a concert and also understand which other artists can help you excite your crowd. Not every artiste can have a concert at Serena or attempt to hold one at Nakivubo stadium either.
You can also join the debate on facebook/chano8 Please send your entertainment and gossip inquiries to askrwamiti@ chano8.com and I will respond to them in the next issue twitter: @mrwamiti
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Chano8 SPECIAL FEATURE
LISTENER'S PARTY OR CONCERT? Are listener’s parties replacing music concerts in Uganda?
“Ugandan artistes have a tendency of organising concerts dubbed 'Album launches' to showcase thier work and mint money. However, many music critics have argued that most of these concerts do not qualify as Album launches. So are lister's parties the way forward? "
W By Magazine writer.
h e r e w i l l Ugand a ’ s music i ndu s try be in 20 years, 30 years or 50 years? Will fans throng Nakivubo stadium or Kyadondo Rugby Grounds to watch the grand children of Jose Chameleone or Bebe Cool perform? Will listener’s parties take precedence? As an optimist, I still believe that Uganda’s music concert industry will still be alive even with the many changes happening. Today, we are witnessing more and more listening parties. Unlike previous years, where the mark of a musician’s success in a particular year was holding an album launch/ concert, it is a different ball game.
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Listening parties taking over? Musicians are no longer enthusiastic about concerts ever since the advent of the listening parties championed by Aly Allibhai of Talent Africa. Lugaflow maestro, GNL Zamba is finally releasing his Album, “Dreaming in colour” soon. He has organized a listener’s party for his 12 track album under his Baboon Forest Entertainment Music Label. GNL who compares the album to Nirvana says it is a very passionate album
filled with defiance, love and compassion and it is for that sole reason that he wants to listen to it with his core fans at an exclusive invite only event. Even though he is still one of the few Ugandan rappers to have a full house sold out concert when he launched his Koyi Koyi (riddles of life) album at Kyadondo in August 2009, GNL is coy about holding a concert. He maintains that holding a listeners’ party for him is a kind of fantasy. “I love the idea of filling the club with music lovers who follow my genre. I hate accidental visitors. I expect
Today, we are witnessing more and more listening parties. Unlike previous years, where the mark of a musician’s success in a particular year was holding an album launch/ concert, it is a different ball game.
SPECIAL FEATURE Chano8
GNL Zamba is planning a listener's party
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Bebe Cool had a successful concert at Serena
According to Aly Allibhai, who has held listeners parties for most musicians under his tutelage, it is something international labels have been doing for years. Most of artistes signed on to Talent Africa these fans at my listening party to rate and critique my music so much so that when it is all done, I walk away with positive criticism,” He explains. According to Aly Allibhai, who has held listeners parties for most musicians under his tutelage, it is something international labels have been doing for years. Most of artistes signed on to Talent Africa “These are always exclusive invite only events with guests who are influencers. The listener party helps drum hype for an album,” He explains.
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He further explains that the listeners’ parties are more grounded, more intimate because of their invitation only nature. They are also perceived to be classy because listeners can finally rub shoulders with the voices they want to reason, talk and argue alike.
cial gatherings.
One challenge these listeners parties face according to Allibhai is that with technology, some people go ahead and preview the albums using online platforms and tools. This weakens the impact of the parties so much so that when they are held, some pass off for mere so-
“After the songs are played, everyone in the room, on stage and off, has a stack of cards numbered 1 through 10. And as we listen, everyone rates the music. A "1" means you pretty much hate the song and a "10" means you love it,”
He however says that the ideal situation is to fill a club or auditorium with music lovers and then have a panel of two or three guests on stage: some friends, some colleagues, maybe a musician or two.
He admits that it can get heated at
SPECIAL FEATURE Chano8
'One Man Onesections million' Julie Mutesasira, a gospel artiste, still had The issues with some concert targetted the A-listers of chrsitians beacause of the baseball shirts and jeans she likes.
times as the invited fans talk about the songs.
Time to look beyond album launches? I think it is foolhardy to rubbish the album launches/ concerts all together. Listen to this: A Chameleone listener’s party.., a Bobi Wine or Bebe Cool listener’s party? Truth be told, there are always going to be those artistes who break through on an emotional level and end up in people’s lives forever. The way the fans view their music is the way they view their own intimate relationships. Such musicians don’t need critiquing. Their fans simply throng to show the love. These don’t need closed group parties. Just so you know, it is a given that Jose Chameleone’s Wale Wale Double Trouble concert at Kyadondo Grounds on May 1, will have a full
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crowd. The same can be said about Mowzey and Weasel’s upcoming concert at Hotel Africana. According to Steven Malwadde a concert promoter with Kilimanjaro media, the concert industry is far from dead although it is drastically changing. He says that the choice for a listener’s party or concert depends on perceived class and number of fans. Naturally hip hop and R n B, go for listener’s parties while Kidandali (Afro pop) favour the concerts. “Why would Kalifah Aganaga hold a listener’s party.., what would he discuss with the fans?” He queries. He says that it has been a common trend in Uganda for musicians to release songs, with the sole aim of reaping some money from album launches and concerts. “Can you imagine Gen. Mega Dee, with one song, held a concert? Ever wondered why it was snubbed? Such unse-
rious musicians should stick to performing in pubs,” he opines.
Concerts are for the brave. The underlying problem doesn’t solely fault Ugandan musicians, we have had concert flops involving international artistes at places like Lugogo Cricket Oval (before KCCA moved to close it from concerts). A hilarious history of concerts that flopped hasn’t spared the likes of Demarco, Davido, Chaka Demus and Pliers, Chris Martin, KCI & Jojo, Tevin Campbell, Red Rat and a host others. Tshaka Mayanja, the reggae-turnedjazz artist admits that concerts these days are a gamble. Tshaka who brought reggae group Third World in 1997 (great success) and later Buju Banton and Twiggy (massive flop) admits that for one to do a concert, they have to be brave and really think hard. He admits that those going for listener’s parties want it the easy way and as such, don’t reap much.
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In Entertainm CHANO8 MAGAZINE
...Etoffali collection took a new twist
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ent...
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CelCARTOON Minoeb To Abdu ons Az
Hello, I only Asked for a brick but you guys want to donate blood?
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Chano8
iz
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Chano8 A PASS DA' TEACHER
A PASS STAR TALK
A Pass real names Alexander Bagonza broke into the Ugandan music scene with the song “YOU DONNO ME” which caused a lot of debate that time because many people thought he was either Nigerian or Jamaican. However, the 25-year old multi-talented star had his break through last year after the successful release of songs like 'Sin City', 'Run Away', 'Love infection', 'Lay Law', 'Tuliku Bigere' ,'Tetubatya' and 'Am loving' done under Buddies production. Chano8 had a chat with him about many interesting issues and his plans for the futue.
Journey in music so far.
Favourite Apass song
My journey has been exciting , tough and a lot of work. I am always in the studio. I try not to get comfortable and believe I can never have enough songs. I am always constantly thinking of what the fans what.
Wow, I look at all my songs as my kids, seeing as they are quite many I say I have a lot of kids (laughs out loud) I don’t like to say I have a favourite. But the song ‘TuliKu bigere’ is key to me and personal. I relate to it a lot, I went through the hustle walking home and to the studio. It represents everyone’s hustle which I respect. I love it and can’t wait for the t-shirts to me out.
The journey has been driven by my hunger to please my fans through my songs. Most of my work was done in 2013 and the fans love it now, am humbled my fans receive me with open arms. My work schedule hasn’t changed much, it is pretty much the same. I prioritize I make sure am there for meetings and in studio when I should. Now I add stuff like video shoots till late (laughs), photo shoots and at performances which I am getting the hang of. At the end of the day it all revolves around music and there isn’t enough time in a day.
About collaborations I love to write music, every free minute I get, I scribble down something. Sometimes someone calls and wants a song so you have to understand the person you're writing for so as to find the song that fits them. When it comes to collaborations, I put that on hold for now I believe I have done quite enough. I have songs with artists like Don MC and Cindy, Lilian Mbabazi, Ekky, Radio and weasel, Cord, Bebe Cool, Mun G and Patrobas all in a space of less than seven months. It is hard performing collabos on stage due to different schedules . Well, I prefer to make music with an artist I also appreciate and we compliment each other. The artiste has to be good and can hold their own.
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Collabo with Kenya’s AY. Well ,that is an interesting story. Ali of Talent Africa 256 calls me with an idea to create two collabos with two other ‘A’name artistes. Those are ATLAS AND Airport taxi, who he had approached before me. So we get into studio, but it turns out Atlas was busy so AY stepped in. Me and my team, we go ahead to create the hook and beat. I wrote my verse and another for the lady of Airpot taxi,I sent it to Talent Africa. AY did the same and before we knew it, we were shooting the video at Pyramids Restaurant with Hoi films. All that work in five days. The song was premiered at Panamera Bar. We shot the video with the South African guys. The deal is to do two songs a year with artistse with A-name. working with AY was good, he is a great artiste, calm and kind of reserved.
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A PASS DA TEACHER Chano8
Expectations for 2015 I have a lot to do this year, but mainly am working on my album with 50 tracks. I work every day to do that. I am working around the clock . the other thing is, I already have over seven hundred songs I cant afford to release 12-track albums or others won’t see the day of light. My ranking now nationally is number 1 and globally in the top 100. I am releasing A Pass merchandise in form of T-shirts. I am also getting into motivational speaking. I want to visit schools and motivate students about success and not giving up on their dreams.
have a girlfriend that I like to keep out of the spot light seeing as it is not her thing. She is my escape most of the time, we talk a lot and sometimes she even tries to sing to me, at least she tries (blushes).
Fans don’t know about Apass Well let me see. I like to diss my friends, of course, in a teasing way. They believe am the best at it. I diss Nessim all the time, he disses me too. He jokes around a lot. And am sure my fans don’t know that am a HUGE Micheal Jackson fan. I know all his songs by heart. He literally taught me how to sing, I used to rap, but I fell in love with his song and tried to mime each one, I learnt how to pitch which helps me sing in my songs.
Life in the spotlight and fame (Laughs) first of all I have no groupies, secondly ,I don’t go out much. Every little time I get, I am still either recording or writing music. I do have a private life of sorts that I like to keep out of the limelight (giggles). Yes, when am on the street and on bodas people shout out to me and am grateful about all the love. Am not a show off I prefer my music to speak for me and its success.
New album at ‘Wuuyo’ premiere? That was not an album, but rather a collection of my songs for my fans. That was a quick decision, we were launching the video of ‘Wuuyo’ and we wanted something different from the usual video launching. I also wanted my fans to be able to take home some music that included some jams they haven’t heard and their favorites. A lot of people bought the CDs, including my fellow artistes and entertainers.
A pass the man That is a tough one. My life revolves around music, but let me see how to answer your question. I love games. I love to play FIFA 15, love soccer. I talk a lot and jam a lot with my girlfriend, am a very religious person I make time to pass the church. I am very close to my family, around my friends an organized, calm and playful at times. I love food too, really love good food. I watch a lot of movies, but mainly documentaries.
Single or committed? I had a feeling you would ask that. No am not single I
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‘Trouble maker’ with Ekky. Her manager calls me up and is like Ekky likes your music and would like to do a song with you. I thought about for a minute, it was an easy decision because I liked her music too so I agreed. We got time we went to the studio where we shared ideas, we co-wrote the song, I did some editing and it sounded perfect. We just shot the video recently It was absolutely fun.
Other activities or businesses We are merchandising now we are doing T-shirts like Tetubatya, Twokya, Tuli kubigere which is done already. We are also going to make ‘Nva Kampala’ T-shirts. A number of companies are coming up and offering to partner with us on this which is great. My job, well is to get people to wear them.
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Chano8 MONA FACES
MONA Mona Faces is a make-up palour that does magic on faces Mona faces is run and founded by the young and talented Mutoni Monalisa, a make up artist. She is from a good christian family who grew in the surburbs of Kampala and is also persuing a Bachelor's degree in supply management.
M
ona faces is run and founded by the young and talented Mutoni Monalisa, a make up artist. She is from a good christian family who grew in the surburbs of Kampala and is also persuing a Bachelor's degree in Supply Management. When asked how she came up with Mona Faces, she explains that, it was just a user handle on social media, specifically instagram handle where she frequently posts pictures of her clients and projects she had done. Her friends added ‘faces’ to it after noticing all her pictures were actually of faces , the name sounded right and it worked.
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Her love for make-up is easily seen in the way she brightens up when she describes how she got into the love of makeup. She says she doesn’t exactly
When asked how she came up with Mona Faces she explains how it was just a user handle on social media, specifically instagram handle where she frequently post pictures of her clients and project she had done.
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FACES Some of Mona's clients
remember how or when she fell in love with make-up, but all along as she can remember it has been what she was into. She reminisces of her mum letting her try out different stuff with her face while she was getting into the hobby. She narrates the fact that till now her mum is very supportive and still calls upon her services from time to time with pride. She also recounts times in high school where she got in trouble for carrying eye liners and lipstick to school while most students were up to no good. She became quite popular for her skills in school, especially during events. Professionally, Monalisa decided to turn her hobby into a career in September 2014 when she realized it could be profitable because everyone was opening up to the idea that a modern lady has to look good at least foundation and lipstick. She says it wasn’t easy for her to start up because she too doubted it was profitable. "It’s only if you’ are passionate and creative then you can earn Chano8. April 2015
She has worked with a number of celebrities in the entertainment business such as Lilian Mbabazi, Juliana Kanyomozi, GSnake, Sylvia Owori, Kleith, Judith Heard and many more. The weekends are the busiest for her as most of the events take place then. from make up. Since I started, I have worked with different people such as brides, socialites, birthday girls, Kuhingiras, video vixens, celebrity shoots or videos, even MP’s such as Miria Kyambade, red carpet guests, television personalities." she adds
place then.
She has worked with a number of celebrities in the entertainment industry such as Lilian Mbabazi, Juliana Kanyomozi, G-Snake, Sylvia Owori, Kleith K, Judith heard and many more. The weekends are the busiest for her as most of the events take
Other than her Mona faces business she owns a boutique at Krishna Mall in Kisementi called Hello Collections which she started earlier with her old school friends. She never has a dull moment in her day.
Mona is not your average university student, but she has built a steadfast and reputable business and proclaims that she survives off her make up skills.
FASHION SHOOT
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A PASS 'DA TEACHER' Is a young Ugandan Ragga, Ragae and danace-hall artiste and song writer known for songs like 'Love infection, Tetubatya, Am loving, Tuliku Bigere and Wuuyo. He shares some of his fashion moments with Chano8.
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Chano8 SPECIAL FEATURE
CELEBRITY B Do our celebrities really have a plan B? There is a common trend cripping into our music industry in which local artistes or celebrities live a lavish life only to die as paupers. What is the way forward for some of the m when there is still time?
By Magazine writer.
D
eath, they say, is an equalizer. Whereas celebrated musicians create a feeling that they live a champagne lifestyle with a steady income flow, death lays them bare. How could someone who made millions die a pauper? The public often asks. It happened with the deaths of Paul Job Kafeero, Fred Maiso, Martin Angume, comedian Paddy Ssali (Bitama) and lately, Emmanuel Mayanja, AK47. In such times of grief, the music fraternity has always come out to show solidarity by contributing money. In some cases, as in the case of AK 47, millions were realized. The moneys were channelled towards completing his incomplete house in Seguku. However, a million dollar question looms: Do your celebrities have a fall back plan? What happens when the fabled cheque stops coming?
Only stupid singers die poor. Singer Nince Henry of the Nyongeza song maintains that only the ‘stupid’ singers die poor. He maintains that the easiest way to become an overnight millionaire is for one to have a successful hit and once one achieves that, the planning should begin in earnest. “Any Ugandan artiste who gets a hit song can make it. The problem comes in planChano8. April 2015
ning. For instance, sometimes I make up to sh 4m a week, which is way above what most people earn in offices. My main problem is not how to spend, but rather how to plan for that money,” he tells Chano 8. He further explains: “Some upcoming musicians have more property and assets than the so called big musicians. We have moved from driving Escalades and Hummers, to investing in real estate,” According to Nince, unless one learns to treat their music career like a job, they are likely to end up like singer Red
SPECIAL FEATURE Chano8
ACK-UP PLAN!
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Maurice Kirya with excited fans at The Sound Cup during the Mwooyo album release
Banton of the 'Noonya money' fame who has become the laughing stock of the industry. He insists that the days of musicians making a windfall and then blowing the money on an Escalade or Hummer are long gone. Most of us (young generation) have invested in the real estate and drive modest cars. We aren’t blindly into showbiz,� He explains. He maintains that the era of musicians blowing a huge chunk of their earnings on their often terrible lifestyles is long gone. Chano8. April 2015
Maurice Kirya is one such artiste who ably used his fan base to secure his plan B. Just when we thought female fans are averse to spending, his legion of fans thronged The Sound Cup when it opened in 2013. Today, it is brisk business. Maurice Kirya is one such artiste who ably used his fan base to secure his plan B. Just when we thought female fans are averse to spending, his legion of fans thronged The Sound
Cup when it opened in 2013. Today, it is brisk business. In an interview with Chano8, Kirya maintains it took him eight years
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Investor:Nince Henry
to plan, research and open up The Sound Cup, located at Garden City. “I had all these fans and I’m like, how about I create a cool place where we would catch up,” he reminisces. According to Kirya, one of the most followed celebs on twitter, it took one tweet to have a full house of customers. The rest has been brisk business. His star power worked for him and rather than endorse other companies’ products, he endorsed his own.
Mad partying Whereas the life choices of Maurice Kirya are exemplary, poor planning is a cancer that is eating at the artistes. Their poison is living exaggerated lifestyles that leave them broke. On average, a fairly good Ugandan artiste can earn about Sh2m every week from various gigs. Unfortunately all Chano8. April 2015
Kafeero, who was also a comedian, dramatist, social and cultural critic was planning to celebrate 20 years of an illustrious music career, when he died. the artistes think about is spending. From a car they don’t necessarily need, expensive parties and clothing, they spend like money is running out of fashion. They also maintain hangers on- (what do these chaps do anyway?) who leave them out of pocket.
contribution to the Kadongo Kamu (One-man guitar band) was undisputed. Arguably the most celebrated singer and composer of Kadongo Kamu; he died a miserable man in May 2007.
Poor management.
“It was down to poor management. Kafeero realized late in his career that he needed to be managed and guided on some aspects of his art. Sadly, he realized it too late,” Andrew Benon Kibuuka, the president of the Uganda Performing Rights Society (UPRS) says.
The Late Paul Job Kafeero’s literary
Kafeero, who was also a comedian, dramatist, social and cultural critic
Some have developed a bad habit of unscrupulously picking money from show promoters and failing to honour performances.
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SPECIAL FEATURE Chano8 He thinks too many young artistes sign away their living to music managers who do not have their best interests at heart. He says that the ultimate goal is for the artistes to get wise and get educated on some matters. “They should never sign a contract unless they understand it. If people can make money off you, they will. Unless artistes get an education, they will rank among the wretched in the country. They will only live to regret where all the money went when they hit their twilight years with nothing to show,” he concludes.
How to be a successful musician
Late Martin Angume
was planning to celebrate 20 years of an illustrious music career, when he died. His catalogue of 83 songs on 21 albums almost went to waste until Kathryn Barrett-Gaines, commonly known as Omwana W’omuzungu, documented them in a book titled “One Little Guitar: The Words of Paul Job Kafeero.” It was a little too late.
act as an eye-opener to many musicians, they should plan,” he was quoted saying. Seems the artistes turned a deaf ear. Comedian, Paddy Bitama and AK 47 later deaths contradicted his advice.
Get wise. Get educated.
Martin Angume, known for his two love hits 'Gulimugiya' and 'Switch', died a miserable man in May 2013.
With the music industry becoming more competitive and cutthroat, some musicians have blindly run to music managers to run everything for them. Most of them are cursing.
Hospitalized in Mulago for two months with accumulating medical bills of sh3.2m, he was ignored.
“Being a manager is a business. They are in the business of making money out of artists.
His eventual death and crowding at Mulago had Benon Kibuuka fuming: “Why are artistes crowding now under the guise of raising hospital bills? It is a pity. Angume’s death should
As writer and critic Joseph Batte warns, 'The music business is a cruel and shallow money trench, where thieves and pimps run free, and good men die like dogs'."
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• Live modestly: It takes years or even decades for one to have enough to enjoy certain luxuries. Try to create some kind of stable cash flow in order to cover certain expenses such as gas, food or utilities. You should live an easy life rather than try to fulfil life. • Be patient, persistent. It's okay to dream big, but if the only reason you want to be a musician is because you think it'll get you a large house with a yacht, you'll quickly get weeded out of this business. • Planning and preparing takes years. Whatever your musical craft may be, as long as you are making steps to improve every day, you will eventually be one of the best out there. • Enjoy your work and craft. No matter which aspect of music or the arts you're passionate about, it’s essential to practice your craft every day. By doing this, you will continue to improve while others stagnate, eventually being better than most others at what you do. • Be creative at generating income: One of the best things musicians can do when trying to stay afloat with their music is to find multiple streams of income. Adapted from online sources.
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Chano8 THE LYRICS
BAKWE KYONYWA Nutty Neithan
"Nutty Neithan is one of the fast rising stars in the Ugandan music scene who has been working hard although he started his music career as a dancer. His hit single 'Bakwe Kyonywa' has taken the airwaves by storm with FM stations and Televisions stations picking it up as well as night clubs. The song's easy sing-along chorus is a favourite with the fans and the messag in the song is simple, clear and direct; Its weekend and they time to give you a drink so that we can party together".
Nutty Neithan (C) in the now popular Bakwe Kyonywa musci video
Intro Supanova Mi gyal! You gyal come here With me Nutty Neithan You gyal, wadde toffa nyota Bakuwe kyonywa Chorus Gal tell me what you drinking What your drinking Bakuwe kyonywa Make we party like a weekend Its a weekend Bakuwe kyonywa Chano8. April 2015
Gal tell me what you drinking What your drinking Bakuwe kyonywa Make we party like a weekend Its a weekend Verse 1 Sili Phantom naye ompalula Toli muggo naye onsabula Sili muchungwa naye onkamula Ondalula, laba bwenkanula Baby gyal yah know say mi wan come a yard Nze kisumulozo gwe mottoka
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THE LYRICS Mi a real man, mi no handicap Yadde toffa nyota, bakuwe kyonywa Chorus Verse 2 You look like rihanna-na You smart you na bang-na Walked around africa, teli mulala akufanana Nakupenda sana-na You are shine you are shanana You no monkey buh mi wanna give you banana Dolce & Gabbana wanna be your governor Give mi mother tongue Nabukwasi nvugana Tewali akuvuganya Buli akulaba avunaama You de best gal dem inna di city now So whats your kahunda Nzigye nkusalake kko Nzigye nkukwate kko Nzigye njibonge kko, njikwate kko, njikone kko, njituke kko Echuupa!
Verse 3 Shining, I really love the way you whining (Really wanna cool your thirst) Kyana gwe! Nze onsensebula eh iyi Kyana gwe! Nze ontabula obwongo Yo! Some mi wanna press your body like a computer Eh tik toky like a type writer You are my taxi nze conductor Ah ah ah nze tondoopa Bali bikadde yo my future Ne bwogaana nja ku.. Tondoopa Nze tondopa, yah know say Chorus X2
Chorus Click here to Watch Video
Nutty Neithan is doing well with his new song
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Chano8 STUDIO CHANO8DIARY MAGAZINE
Studio Diary
KUMA OBUDDE Lillian Mbabazi
Former Blu 3 member Lillian Mbabazi is a Ugandan musician and was one of the featured artisets in the second season of "Coke Studio Africa" She started doing professional music in 2003 after the Coca Cola Pop sStar competitions that led to the formation of Blu*3. In 2010 she embarked on a solo career and has had successful songs like "Vitamin" with Weasel of the Goodlyfe Crew, "Kawa" and "Danger". She has also collaborated with rapper s Navio, AY, P-Unit and Kitoko
Inspiration
Lilian recently outted a new song 'Kuma Obudde which is already picking up very fast on the airwaves. Chano8 caught up with her to find out the Knitty- gritty concerning the song
I would like to take the credit, but I didn’t write it. T was like any other ordinary time when you get a call and you're told about a nice song. S my friends at Swangz call me up with a song they thought it was good for me. And that I might be able to work with. After listening to it, I loved the message and the fact it was playful. I decided to do the song and we started going to the studio to record.
Production The song was written by a good friend called by Julio but everyone calls him zulander. It was produced by Nash from Swangs Avenue too. It was a lot of fun recording it. A lot of jokes about my Luganda pronunciation. We recorded the song in one day. It didn’t take a long time because what is did was I did a lot of tries on my on then a demo, by the time I got to record it I was very familiar with the song. It was quick.
Challenges Now that is the funny part, because what most of my fans don’t know is that I find it hard singing in luganChano8. April 2015
da, speaking it is easy but singing it is a bit tricky for me. Some words are in different tones, the pronunciation of the words and how different it sounds when recorded. So I had to play with the words for a while till I finally got them right and the emotions of the song were also right.
Music Video The video was shot by the one and only Sasha Vbyz under DEG Films and Savy Films. I left all the work mostly to the director, he came up with the script for me, I believed he would be perfect and when I got it I liked it was a fun script , nothing hectic , just day to day life which fitted perfectly for the song it was. We shot the some parts at Tirupatti mall new venom club then we also had a house scene in Nansana in the night, but you could never tell it was at night by watching the video. My team did a good job it looks like it was day time.
Make up and style? My makeup was done with Mona faces who is a fabulous makeup artist and we have worked together on a couple of projects alongside other artists. Ii was styled by Nunu from Bold, she scouts gets the clothes, shoes and accessories then brings
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STUDIO DIARY Chano8
on, so we have a lot on our plates. They have invested a lot in a great team in recording, promotion and distribution.
The song was written by a good friend called Julio but everyone calls him Zulander. It was produced by Nash from Swangs Avenue too. It New single was a lot of fun recording it. A lot of jokes about Oh, this song ‘Simple my Luganda pronunciation.
them to the set. She has great taste in clothes. Sometime we get to keep the clothes, especially when you have a nice stylist (giggles) sometimes they are those outfits you were once , for the video and you can’t wear anywhere else.
New album 2015 The new Album ,I believe is going to surprise people have taken my time with it, to carefully choose the songs and have also challenged myself to try out new and different things with it. It has RnB, soul, Afro beat, Hiphop and Chano8. April 2015
more. There is something for everyone . I believe the listeners will like it. If you make good music people will appreciate it. I have worked with various artists on this album such as navy, Apass, Nava Gray and others.
management Wow, it is amazing working with the deuces entertainment group(DEG). I signed with them earlier this year and they have kept me busy. I have singles coming out each month I am working really hard and they keep me going. We are so far 3 artist that is me Atlas and Sasha Vybz signed
girl’ I worked with Benon Mugumbya of Swangz Avenue. It is not exactly a new song, I wrote it a while back last year, I sat on it as I waited to find the right people to work on it. When I did it was a great song. The tune and emotional. It is an inspirational song. It is the story about a girl going through a lot, a hard life and she is crying out to the heavens for answers. It wasn’t from a personal experience, but it relates to everyone who has been there, felt like giving up. It is also a different song , the audio is out and we are hoping to shoot the video next week. Hope we see you at the premier next week,Saturday 18th with Mister deejay.
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Chano8 CAREER CORNER
Gaetano
KAGGWA
Gaetano Jjuko Kagwa is a Ugandan media personality. He rose to fame when he represented Uganda in the first edition of Big Brother Africa in 2003. He has also hosted the television show Studio 53 on Mnet. Between the years 2004 to 2008, Gaetano was the host of the Capital in the Morning Show on Kenyan radio station 98.4 Capital FM. He is currently working on many projects in media nad production
A
fter Big Brother Africa in 2003 Gaetano Kaggwa who was pursuing a law degree at Mukerere then might have not won the top prize, but he also didn’t leave the show and spotlight empty handed. He managed to leverage his fame to start up his now very glamourous showbiz career. He was invited to to Studio 53 as soon as he left Big Brother Africa. He started Studio 53 from 2004 and for six years, he traveled all over Africa and out of Africa such as Germany, honing his skills in television and broadcasting. He started off as the show host, but after the network realizing his potential and zeal to learn, he was given the opportunity to produce his own show and direct it too. He says being in the big brother house was different because he never had to worry about where the cameras were unlike television hosting. He just had to be himself. He took a crush course when it came to directing and producing the show in Johannesberg so as to craft that skill too . All this came in handy for the dreams he set for himself. In 2008, he returned
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back to Uganda when Capital Radio offered him a gig. In comparison to TV, he says ‘radio is harder than television'. On television, you have the advantage of the location, your clothes, posture and people you are interacting with but in radio all you have is your voice doing all the work. It is called 'theatre in the mind’. When it came to Capital, he says he learnt on job. He started with a Saturday breakfast show as he got better, he was moved to the Drive time show with Juliana Kanyomozi from Monday to Friday, he also got another gig for a breakfast show.
new promotion required him to do interviews, administrative roles, and be incharge of personnel which he didn’t find interesting. So when Capital FM Uganda came calling with a radio job again, he did not hesitate to return.
His acting career started off in Kenya when he starred in a TV series on Mnet called ‘Changes’. He played the role of a Ugandan man named Tendo who was a shady businessman. He describes it as “a lot of fun, walking in someone’shoes was really interesting, especially trying to understand who your character is”. Gaetano is a jack That wasn’t all he was up to as he of all trades. While he did radio, he maintained his Studio 53 job which required him to move back and forth Continues to Next Page to Johannesberg every four weeks. He later left Capital FM and joined Vision His acting career FM which is now called X-FM. His perstarted off in Kensonal life was also undergoing a major change. He married the love of his life ya when he starred who lived and worked in Kenya, which in a TV series on M-net prompted him to move to Capital fm called ‘Changes’. He Kenya so as to spend more time with played the role of a Uganhis new bride. How romantic? While in Kenya, he was approached by Radio Africa limited a media house in Kenya that offered him a job at KISS T.V to produce and direct shows and also come up with concepts for the station. He was promoted to head of TV. He says it wasn’t his cup of tea! He was used to either being behind the camera or infront of it, but his
dan man named Tendo who was a shady businessman. He describes it as “a lot of fun, walking in someone’shoes was really interesting, especially trying to understand who your character is”.
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Chano8. April 2015
HAIR STYLES
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CHANO8CORNER MAGAZINE Chano8 CAREER
BENEATH THE LIES ‘It is taking Ugandan production to the next level, the cast was brilliant’. It was an opportunity to be apart of something that was going to change the industry'.
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CONTINUED also acted and currently he also hosts a TV show on Urban in the morning at 7am9am about current affairs and every once in a while, he is invited as MC at events. When asked about his work with the TV series ‘Beneath the lies,’ He says he got a call from Cedric Babu whom he met and they discussed his idea for the show, he was impressed by the concept and the direction it was set to take. "It is taking Ugandan production to the next level, the cast was brilliant. It was an opportunity to be apart of something that was going to change the industry." He narrates He worked with some local talents some with no experience but did a good job. He refers to Cedric as a professional and a good actor. Being the funny man, Gae jokes about missing his line a couple of times despite his own TV experience. He also assures us the show will most definitely be back on air in the future. He is currently working on a new and upcoming TV show in Kenya. This one is also a contest that revolves around East African families put against each other to see who survives the challenges better. They are midway of shooting and he believes he should be wrapping up in a couple of weeks. On the career path he has taken, he doesn’t feel he has made too many mistakes or missed a lot of opportunities. Things come up and some opportunities did come up and would have been profitable and settled for one that was never. He does wish he had a team to help him keep track of his projects, but he has learnt to be content with what he has. He narrates the story of the cat that had a fish in his mouth but was tempted to get a bigger fish that belonged to the cat in the water staring back at him, hence losing what he already had while chasing his reflection. He is not afraid to face challenges and he Is always learning from everything he does. He says he just keeps himself focused on what he wants and works on getting it. If it wasn’t for his opportunities after Big Brother, he would have completed his law degree and most likely working with the
Chano8. April 2015
likes of the Katurebe’s. He loves radio and television and is so glad that it is where he is now. When it comes to his future goals, he is still learning, every day he messes up and picks himself up, trying new things. Gaetano and his brother Tendo also run the Nakawa based bar Zone7 which he says takes up some of his time. He is also interested in doing a lot more acting and directing. Besides all the above, he is also involved in a new venture with a friend that involves apparel that he is keeping hush hush so as not to jinx it. After an hour and so of listening to all his achievements and his ambitious career path, we had to ask the question on everyone’s mind, how does he find the time to do all these and still hunger for more? the answer; he just loves to be on the move, his work keeps him going. Once he settles into the routine it becomes easier. He also believes you have got to spend money to make money. If one idea fails, you move on. He tries to have a back up for the backup plan. He still finds time to spend with his wife, whom he describes as a private person. He describes their relationship as a very close one, they talk all the time and don’t mind the distance, seeing as whenever each can, they travel back and forth. Most of his family is here and they find the time to still share activities together. He explains that it helps when he is given ample time to schedule his work and doesn’t have any last minute hustle. He also adds that his support system is amazing, his wife supports him, which is core to his success. Gaetano believes that, the broadcasting industry in Uganda still has a long way to go compared to our neighbors in Kenya, a very long way to go. “Kenya is more innovativ, less restricted and a lot of creative freedom to create new exciting stuff rather than Uganda. With a lot of work we shall get there” He says this with a lot of hope. His message to all the students who aren’t sure about what career they want to forge for themselves after school is that, education is not all about what you study in class, but rather to mould you to do whatever you decide in life, be able to change into anything and anyone, it gives you the street smartness to create jobs for your self and others if one thing fails and go on to another. Failing to try is the only true failure.
131 SNAP OR SHARE AND WIN Have you come across something funny? Take a picture or a screenshot and share it with us on our facebook page @chano8 to stand a chance to win prizes
GRAFFITTI Chano8
LOCAL CELEBRITY RIDES YOU NEED TO SEE...
GRAFFITTI
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Favourite Gadgets
'Tom The Mith Mayanja is a Ugandan Hip-hop artiste and a member of Clear cut. He is also the host of SMASH program on Urnan TV.He shared his favourite items'
THE MITH
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GADGETS AND STYLE Chano8
Instruments
Sadly, I don't play any instruments. I am not patient enough. But the instrument that fascinates me the most has to be the violin. It has the ability to bring emotions out of people. I wish I had the time to learn to play it.
Phones used Well, I am using my old school Nokia E63. I missed using it, and I just found its charger. JOY (laughs out loud). I change phones when I want to really. I am not like half of these people who lose their pay on the latest trends.
Dream Car Samsung, HTC or Apple? I am not really a brand dude, but Samsung is, to me, easier to use.
My dream car has to be the Mercedes Benz G63 AMG G-Wagon. It'd have to be kitted to me personal taste too.
Vintage Cars? Oh, it'd have to be the 1963 Ford Falcon Futura. I remember as a kid, my dad had 1, an army green 1, and I always felt like I was in some kind of spaceship. So it'd definitely have to be that. Same color also, with all black leather seats. No tint on the windows, everyone has to see me in it.
Old School Gadget? I collect music CDs. I have a ridiculously large collection. So that old school gadget that is reliable is my old school Sony discman.
Top 5 Cars To me, my dream cars have to be practical. I'm in UG, the Ferraris and the like don't make sense to me. But a Range Rover Sport. Maybach. Bentley. H3 Hummer Make sense.
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Can’t Live House Without Many things actually, from cologne to sprays and all... But the 1 that I need the most has to be my charger. The siimu must be at 100% all the time.
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Chano8 GADGETS AND STYLE
in his own words The Mith is a regular guy, Extraordinary MC, New Host of SMASH on UrbanTV and a Klear Kut Kapo, all in 1. Hehehe. Still humble though.
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GADGETS AND STYLE Chano8
Up coming Album "DESTINATION AFRICA" is my second solo album. I think it's the best work I have done in studio, because I wasn't stressing about making music, I basically went in the studio and had a great time. And the music reflects that, I believe. People should head to Sound Cup in Garden City, as well as, BOLD in Acacia mall and get themselves a copy.
Can’t Live House Without The siimu. The iPod. Power bank. Laptop. That's it really. The rest I can live without.
Brand or performace? Shoes: Not a brand guy, at all. But with all the NIKE I have people might not believe me. Favorite pair have to be my Timberland boots though. Those things are durable.
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Chano8 GADGETS AND STYLE
Note 4 or I Phone? Well, that'd have to be the Note 4.
PS or Phone Games? Oh yes. Fight Night. Street Fighter. FIFA and NBA are some of my favorite games.
Accessories & Gadgets Headphones. Discmans. LP machines. IPods. Everything really. I have to be able to listen to some music, when I want to.
Fans should lookout for Oh a lot. There's SMASH on UrbanTV, every Saturday at 8:30pm and Thursday at 11:30am. More videos. More music, from myself and Klear Kut too. And many shows and events. It's going to be a fun year.
Hanging out Favorite place to hang out is MACHAME in Naguru. Dope place to just relax, crack jokes with friends and have a drink or 2.
Top Apps Instagram/Twitter/Facebook/Gmail Drinking Games Skype.
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Tom The Mih Mayanja Chano8. April 2015
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Chano8 TRIBUTE TO AK47
REMEMBERING
AK-47
More Famous In Death
AK47 real Names Emmanuel Mayanja died in a bath tub at Dijavu bar in Kansanga a Kampala suburb last month. But to date, the real cause and circumstances surrounding his death remain a mystery as investigations continue with varying accounts emerging to explain how he died. AK47 who has been singing under Team No Sleep(TNS) managed by Jeff Kiwa was mentored by big brother Jose Chameleone at Leone Island before falling out and joining TNS last year. AKay as is fondly known by peers is also brother to Goodlyfe singer Weasel(Douglas Mayanja) and Pallaso(Pius Mayanja) of Team No Sleep. Last year he went into a music partnership with upcoming singer Bakri and rebranded to Akay before splitting up and reverting to AK47.
By Magazine writer
S
inger Emmanuel “Hammerton” Mayanja, AK 47 was an epitome of success without fame.
For all his time on earth, he was “Chameleone’s young singing brother” in the eyes of many, even though he struggled to carve a niche of his own.
During his time in Chameleone’s Leone Island, AK 47, “The lyrical gun” was largely in the background. Even when he left and joined Jeff Kiwa’s Team No Sleep, he was not highly regarded as his contemporaries.
Chano8. April 2015
He was behind Sheebah, Pallaso and Bakri in pecking order. His collabo projects like Story, Gwe Yaliwo ft. Bakri and Twazilwanako, with Sheebah Karungi, still never got him the acclaim he deserved. Out of the blue, Bakri left Team No Sleep and encouraged his contemporary to follow suit. Before AK 47 could sever strings with Jeff, he released a dancehall track; Ebbaluwa¸which was by far his best. He was in the final stages of releasing a song Nze ndi Mulokole (I am Born Again) –one that marked an end to his career in Team No Sleep, when he mysteriously died at Jeff Kiwa’s Dejavu Bar.
Popular in death. When the news of AK 47’s death sunk in, it hit people hard. He was
His acting career started off in Kenya when he stared in a TV series on M-net called ‘Changes’. He played the role of a Ugandan man named Tendo who was a shady businessman. He describes it as “a lot of fun, walking in someone’shoes was re-
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STAR PROFILE
Keko was one of the first people Just Jose managed before the rapper signed for Sony Record
Chano8. April 2015
AK47 and Bakri at NTV studios with Daglous Lwanga (Second right)
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Chano8 TRIBUTE TO AK47
RIP Dance-Hall star AK47 of TNS
just 25. As the news became reality, the feeling was: “why him” These words were echoed by his father, Gerald Mayanja at the requiem mass. He openly inferred that AK 47, his last born was his favourite. “He was calm and a pacifier. People just wanted to be around him. That was his personality,” The grieving Mayanja said. His mother Prossy Musoke Mayanja was disconsolate and was adamant her son was killed. “I have buried my son but I pray justice prevails one day,” she eulogized. The memorial service held at St Joseph Lweza Catholic Church along Entebbe road verged on pain and anguish. Such a solitary demise was unimaginable to anyone who knew him. Chano8. April 2015
You risked the wrath of a mob if you dared suggest he died of a drug overdose rather than some sort of foul play. The long and short of it was that AK 47’s killers had to be found. The feeling hasn’t changed to date. It was in death that the true nature of his fans was revealed. Ironically, his biggest fans drew from family. Chameleone and Pallaso suffered nervous breakdowns extolling the virtues of their deceased brother. All of the stars we worked with — musicians, producers, DJs, name it — they all gravitated to him in death. A week into his death, there was an All Star tribute released in his memory. Even though death is the epitome of pain, Jose Chameleone also garnered the little strength left in him to pen a heartfelt tribute to his deceased brother.
Just Jose relaxes in studio
He was however at pains to explain why he ‘fired’ AK 47 from his Leone threshold. “I told him to become an artiste himself and make his own records. He was talented and I knew he wasn’t the type to fail. He had found his niche and it was hard to separate him from dancehall music,” Chameleone told Chano8. Weasel and Pallaso are working on a tribute song titled Tebakusobola. Interestingly, it is after AK 47’s death that the musical brothers have forged a stronger bond. They have mooted music projects together.
Hustler to the end. According to close friends, AK 47 draws much from sibling, Weasel (Douglas Mayanja). Both are quiet, laid back but stubborn in their own way. Where AK was different from Weasel is that he was a known hus-
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TRIBUTE TO AK47 Chano8
Just Jose receives an award
In studio: Akay formed a duo with Bakri
The song was written by a good friend called Julio but everyone calls him Zulander. It was produced by Nash from Swangs Avenue too. It was a lot of fun recording it. A lot of jokes about my Luganda pronunciation. tler, who refused to rest until he realized his dream. According to fellow artiste, Bakri, AK 47 had a short and eventful career and life; he was the envy of some of his peers. He wasn’t the type to bask in glory when he recorded a hit. Peers, right from Kisubi High School describe him as a jolly, kind down to earth individual who, even under knowledge he was Jose Chameleone’s brother, acted normal at school. Chano8. April 2015
When he tasted stardom, backing up Chameleone, he still retained that admirable personality. He however never found school a worthwhile venture and he dropped out after his form six.
Found peace in death? In an interview he gave with Ebonies production, OMG he detailed that his dream was to become an international dancehall artiste who would hoist the Ugandan flag. He never realized it but attained everlasting stardom if the fact that he had given his life to Christ was anything to go by. AK47, who had just given his life to God and was working on his first gospel album posted about it.
His mark in the music industry started with his dancehall track, Champion AK, and indeed with it a future champion, a Lyrical gun was born.
Radio personality, Roger Mugisha summed up the enigma that AK 47 had become: "I am glad you found the Lord before your untimely demise."
He went ahead to do a whole lot of songs including Action Packed, Better Dance, Yoono, Ndi Muzibu Ft. Schwarz, Gal A Bubble FT. Diziza, You Should Know and Tukikolemu
What we are sure of, AK made his name. He travelled the world had a brief but profound impact. Long after he is gone, his legacy will linger on.
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RISING STAR Chano8
Rising Star
WINNIE NWAGI New Swangz Avenue signing Winnie Nwagi is slowly but steadily rising in the music scene. After er Embeera song became a success on the music scene. She also has another new song 'Katono Katono' which is also picking up. Her singing style has been heavily influeinced by her major source of inspiation Irene Ntale who is also t Swangz Avenue. Winnie spoke t Chanoo8 about her music aspirations and plans for the future.
Chano8: Tell the fans Who really is Winnie? Winnie Nwagi is an artiste with Swangs Avenue I was born to Mr Kabitto Henry, my mum is deceased, I have six siblings. I went to St. Agnes Nagalama, East High school in Ntinda and did A level in Namagabi still in Kayunga.
Chano8: When did you start the music career? The very first time I sang was in primary school. I was in the choir I sang anything and everything I danced a lot too, drumming too. No one else in my family sings so I guess they were refreshed by my voice. In my S.6 vacation, a friend took me to some studio in Namasumbe whose name I can’t seem to remember and I recorded my first song. It was free of charge because I could not afford it. The song was called ‘Omukwano Gunuma’ I wrote it myself. I remember I had three songs then. It was about that time I got pregnant and had my baby girl so I gave music a break.
Chano8: You participated in Coka Cola Rated Next, what was your experience?
A friend convinced me to go try out for Coka Cola Rated Next. I hesitated because I was afraid of competition and rejection. I went with the intent to win the top prize but I had no idea that even without the top prize, one could achieve a lot just from the exposure. My time in the competition was exciting and educational for me as an artiste. I learnt stage management, how to better my voice and cheer up the crowd. It instilled confidence in me and my voice. I now sing not to be better than any artiste, but just good as me.
Chano8: After Coka Cola Rated next, what happened next? I was quite disappointed when I didn’t win and Chano8. April 2015
didn’t expect anything. But fortunately I got a call from Benon of Swangs Avenue. He wanted us to meet, he offered me a place here at Swangz Avenue. Here I am happy.
Chano8: Tell us Swangz Avenue’s role in your music career. The role of Swangz Avenue is quite huge, they manage all the details of my music, from who writes it, recording, producing and promotions not to mention even the videos. Even what I wear is provided for by them. My role is to show up where am told to and sing.
Chano8: Tell me about your song ‘Embeera’? That was actually my first real song. It was with Swangs Avenue, Zulander who is our in-house writer wrote it and it was produced by producer Nash. The video was shot by Paste of Great make Ent. It took us one day to shoot the video from different locations like Kikoni, then around Fido Dido. After releasing the song, it wasn’t popular. It took a while to pick up which was disappointing , the weird part is after I released my second song ‘Gwe Noonya’ that is when 'Embeera' got popular and went viral.
Chano8: What is the story behind your song ‘Gwe noonya’?
This song was one of my old songs, actually when I came to Swangs Avenue I came with my old material and that was the song that was chosen among all of them. It was recorded at Isma Pro’s studio and Medi Menz Films. It is out too. Currently work-
CONTINUES
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CHANO8 MAGAZINE
Chano8. April 2015
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Chano8
RISING STAR
K!MERA Chano8. April 2015
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CHANO8 MAGAZINE Chano8
Rising Star
NWAGI
ing on my third song called ‘Katono katono’. The audio is out as we work on the video. It was written by Choosen and recorded at Zuri Records. It is really a nice song with good lyrics, am very confident the listeners will love it and also find it informative.
en especially. ‘Gwe noonya’ is more of a mature audience that will understand the Luganda and message clearly. I Don't think i am stuck in one category of music you could find someday when I have a danceable song although not dance-hall.
Chano8: How has the transition been, from reality star to music artiste.
Chano8: What do you love to do with your
It has been quite an experience. The difference is I work harder now, because I need to earn money, a lot of people are depending on me. I also have to make songs that interest my fans. Am so not yet popular. I swear people don’t recognize me mainly because I haven’t done a lot of stage performance until this last Easter season when I had over four shows.
I love to swim, I just need to learn how to…hehe. I love hanging out by the water, movies, I love acting I was once the best actress in those school clubs. Maybe even do it professionally. I would also love to learn how to play a piano.
Chano8: Which fellow artistes do u see your-
It was very hard out there before Swangz Avenue. I used to take my CD’s to bars and beg DJs to play my song but all in vain, I had to plead to even get one bar to play it. It was very costly to record a song yet you weren’t earning from it yet. The only people who promised to promote you often lied and always had hidden agendas.
self working with?
I really see my self doing songs with a female artistes. I don’t think my type of music or voice would work well with a male artiste. I am inspired a lot by Juliana (Kanyomozi) and I hope to one day work with her. We grew up to her music and she is very talented.
Chano8: How do you describe your target au-
dience?
Well, I sing a lot of variations in music, so I have something for everyone. I belie ‘Embeera’ would suit the youth and the mature audience and womChano8. April 2015
free time?
Chano8: What challenges did you face breaking out in the industry?
Chano8: What are your plans for 2015? I have just started out in this business, so I still have a long way to go, I have not yet gotten even half way of where am supposed to be. I want to do more songs, perform more and make more bookings.
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Chano8 RELATIONSHIPS
Her View
Relationship
I have been married for five years and it has not been rosy. My husband is a city lawyer who makes some money judging from the car he drives and the clothes he wears. The problem is that he does not provide anything for our two kids and me. I pay the rent and struggle to put our kids through school.
Gloria Batuta
F
Occasionally he will give me Shs 200,000 out of guilt. But despite his good job, I am struggling to keep us float. He just drives in during the wee hours of the night and is gone very early in the morning. My kids keep asking where their father is. I’m tired of this life yet I do not want to keep my kids away from their father by leaving him. Tired woman immediately after they get back on their feet.
irst of all kudos to you maama, all women should recognize the work you do and am sure a number of men which they married a woman like like. You are a good mother if it were your average woman she would have looked on as her children suffer their father’s neglect. So again cheers to you.
This is what I think you should do, I believe almost all marital problems can be solved with communication. Talk to him, if you're beyond that find an elder in the family one whom your husband listens to. Ask his family to hold an intervention for him an ask him to care for his children. I believe in fighting for your marriage before you give up, but if communication doesn’t work, then it's time to call it quits.
Am the old fashioned type, as in I truly believe a man who woke up and decided to get you out of your parent’s home , ask you to have his children, moreover 4 of them should provide for his family. It is his sole responsibility to provide for his family, so it's sad to hear that he doesn’t do that.
Pack up and leave. This option won't come as a drastic change of life for either you or your children, seeing as you pay for all their requirements and their father doesn’t have time to even spend with them. When he is ready, he will arrange times to visit. It will be good for you to have peace of mind and fully accept that you are a single mother, which you already are. It seems like you live with a housemate not a husband or baby daddy. Your leaving maybe the wake up call e needs to realize that he has neglected the biggest and most important role in is life which is to provide for his family.
The other issue I find disturbing is that your husband not being able to find time for his children, it sounds like he left all the parenting roles for you. A father, not a sperm donor, but a father should find time each day, even an hour will do if he is too bus to touch base with his children, talk, play or help out with their homework. Otherwise, how does he call himself a father when he is not even available for his children? If he is able to cater for his family, then where does his money go? Does he have another family that he is looking after that he has deemed more important than yours? Is he just selfish or did you train him to believe you have everything handled at home? Some of these men will hit a rough patch and us women we will support them, but they tend to forget to pick up the reins
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Our children learn a lot from us as parents, they learn what marriage is supposed to be from us, what happiness is and how to treat each other. So think of what it is you're teaching them. Your being happy will enable your children to also receive the best from you. So sit down do a pros and cons list. See what you benefit from staying with him and what you lose by leaving him. It should help you figure out what to do. In my opinion, you’re already raising your children on your own, if he can’t man up then let yourself loose and fend for yourself and the kids as you have been doing without the deadbeat husband.
Dilema
RELATIONSHIPS Chano8
His Take
D
ear tired woman, I must say you really are a strong determined woman and I really commend you on your patience and self-sacrifice. This really is a sad situation. I need you to understand that you cannot say you will be taking your kids away from your husband if you leave him since he is never there. The kids hardly see him so this line of reasoning in pretty flawed in totality. He is not there. Period. Secondly while you may still want to maintain the badge of ‘married’ your status is hardly the case. A man who shows up in the middle of the night and leaves before the sun comes does not constitute what we can call a marriage. I do not know where he comes from at this time but I do not need to be the one to tell you that chances are he is philandering out there. Your marriage is simply a marriage of convenience to him while you and the kids are simply his mirage of a family. The fact that occasionally he throws you some guilty money show that he recognizes that what he is doing in wrong. On the other hand he is too selfish to change his ways and simply plows on. You need to sit this man down and have a good talk with him. Air your grievances candidly and leaving nothing unmentioned. He needs to seriously explain himself otherwise you are wasting precious time with a big shot loser. I think you need to involve his family members in this if he wont listen and make your case known to them. Too many married woman suffer in silence while the man’s family could put him into line if consulted. It is not assured but I think it is worth a shot. You need to walk away from this marriage after exhausting all possible avenues of the two of your solving your issues.
Mark Kawalya You are forty for heavens sake. You need to be focusing on settling down which by the way is pretty late for you but that would be a good place for you to start. Get a mature understanding woman that you can make a wife and hopefully your life will start heading in the right direction.
Don’t fool yourself into thinking that your kids have positive image of their father. If they are a little older they probably have a good idea of what a scumbag he is. A man who refuses to provide for his family is ranks the lowest on the male food chain.
If you decide to walk away then you need to seek legal representation to force this man to provide for his children even as you raise them singlehandedly. The kids will need his financial support regardless of whether the marriage eventually works or does not.
If his family turn against you or he refuses to listen to you then you have no choice but to reconsider this whole marriage thing that you have going on.
But I do not believe in marriage dissolution unless life has become absolutely unbearable. Dialogue should be your first point of approach before trying any other avenues. Wish you luck. May 2014
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Chano8 BEST OF THE MONTH
THE BEST OF Hottest Songs &
Artistes
#1 Love You Everyday BEBE COOL Bebe Cool finished last year very strongly with this award winning song. This block buster song has a blend of Rock, Reggae and Soul has remained top of the charts in many countries and continues to dominate in Uganda. He has followed this with 'Everywhere i go', but fans just cant stop loving this song
#2 Wuuyo A PASS THE TEACHER The extremly multi-talented Alexander Bagonza broke into the music scene last year with songs like 'Tuli kubigere', 'I loving' and 'Tetubatya'. But it is this year that the sog writer and singer has made his mark especially with this catchy Raggae love song 'Wuuyo'. He even has two versions of the song that fans have appreciated and is playing every where.
To comment on stories and countdowns please visit our facebook page chano8 or send an email to info@chano8.com
Chano8. April 2015
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BEST OF THE MONTH Chano8
FEBRUARY We present the hottest songs and artists that dominated air waves
#3 Woman JULIANA KANYOMOZI She is back with a bang. Veteran Uganda song bird Juliana Kanyomozi is back with a vengeance after taking a compassionate leave from music. Her release of Woman was also timely and climaxed in March when all over the world people celebrated international women's day. And since then the song has topped charts
#4 Gundeeze KING SAHA King Saha had a successful year 2014 with the mega hit 'Mulirwana'. He did not want to be called a 'One-hit wonder' and therefore, followed it up with a series of singles. One of them is this love song 'Gundeeze 'which is doing well on radio, TV and clubs. The song has already taken him places with concerts across the globe.
To comment on stories and countdowns please visit our facebook page chano8 or send an email to info@chano8.com
Chano8. April 2015
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Chano8 BEST OF THE MONTH
Hottest Songs &
Artistes
#5 Everywhere I go BEBE COOL Bebe Cool’s much anticipated latest song generated a lot of debate and eventually even became controversial after its delayed release and recently the song was aired on MTV Base and Bebe Cool says many other stations will follow suit and we can't dispute as it is slowly picking up on local scene too.
#6 Neera - Tukikole Radio and Weasel The song was written by Radio during the turmoil that embroiled the Gudlyfe and consequent seperation from their manager. The song was a plea to Weasel to stay put and stick together and now the fans across East Africa have warmed up to it full swing
# 7 Be Happy EDDIE KENZO When Eddie Kenzo took the whole world by storm with his monster hit 'Sitya Loss', so many people wondered what Kenzo would do next to stay on top of his game. Well, the answer is 'be happy' that is slowly but surely picking up especially on TV music shows.
To comment on stories and countdowns please visit our facebook page chano8 or send an email to info@chano8.com Chano8. April 2015
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BEST OF THE MONTH Chano8
We present the hottest songs and artists that dominated Ugandan air waves in the month
#8 Wale Wale DR. JOSE CHAMELEONE Like we have said here before, the musical doctor has never been one to stay idle. After Tubonge dominated the airwaves for a long time last year, he has done it again. This time with a new tune ‘Wale Wale’ which is a simple prayer for prosperity. The song is still doing well across East Africa.
#9 Don't Cry WIz Kid ft radio and weasel This song has been rocking the airwaves ever since its release about two months ago. This year it is among the top songs dominating club bangers and charts across the country. It is a Raggae love song which combines the rich talents of Nigerian superstar wizkid and Uganda's dynamic duo Radio and Weasel as well as the crafty hand of Prod. Washington
#10 Kujaagana IRENE NAMATOVU This traditional kadongo Kamu style of music has done Irene wonders as Okuzaala Kujaagana has already scooped an award as well as featured on many count downs on local FMs and TV music programs. The song carries a heavy meassage as well as a cultural danceable beat liked by many.
To comment on stories and countdowns please visit our facebook page chano8 or send an email to info@chano8.com Chano8. April 2015
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Chano8 COUNT DOWN
International Every month we compile the top international hits dominating Ugandan airwaves in our international countdown. Checkout who’s in and who’s not..
Count
Katty Perry and Juicy J perform the dark
1. 1. All about that bass – Megan Trainer
3. 12. Chandelier - Sia
2. 2. Black Widow – Iggy Azelea ft Rita Ora
1. 13. Tchelete- Davido feat Mafikizolo
1. 3. Shake it off - Taylor swift
1. 14. Maps - Maroon 5
2. 4. Bang bang - Ariana Grande,Jessie J & Nicki Minaj
1. 15. Rude- magic
3. 5. Anaconda - Nicki Minaj 1. 6. Habit(stay high) - Tove Lo 2. 7. Don’t tell ‘em - Jeremih feat YG 3. 8. Animal - Maroon 5 1. 9. Stay with me -Sam Smith 1. 10. Break free - Ariana Grande feat Zedd 2. 11. Boom clap - Chalie xcx Chano8. April 2015
1. 16. Hot boy - Bobby Shmuda 1. 17. Steal My girl - One republic 1. 18. Don’t - Ed sheeran 1. 19. Cool kids - Echosmith 2. 20. Burning it down – Jason Aldean 3. 21. WREKING BALL - MILEY CYRUS 1. 22. TOUCHING MA BODY - J.MARTINS
Down
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1. 23. ALL OF ME- JOHN LEGEND 1. 24. DARK HORSE –KATY PERRY FT.JUICY J 1. 25. JAMBO – ICE PRINCE 1. 26. WAKE ME UP- AVICII 1. 27. DEMONS – IMAGINE DRAGONS 1. 28. NOT A BAD THING- JUSTINE TIMBERLAKE 1. 29. TALK DIRTY TO ME-JASON DERULO FT 1.
2 CHAINS
1. 30. CAN’T REMEMBER TO FORGET YOU1. SHAKIRA FT RIHANA
Chano8. April 2015
COUNT DOWN Chano8
Ugandan Feted Love Songs. 1. Twali Twagalana by Moses Matovu (Afrigo band 1992) 2. Namagembe by Maddox Sematimba (2008) 3. Bamuleete by Frank Mbalire (1962) 4. Kimuli Kya Roza by Fred Maiso (2003) 5. Nakudata by Radio, Weasel and Omulangira Ssuna (2008) 6. Jim wange by Joanita kawalya (Afrigo band 1994) 7. Emitima egilwadde okwagala by Jimmy Katumba (1987) 8. Nkuweeki by Iryn Namubiru (2006) 9. Omukwano gunyuma by Samalie Matovu (2011) 10. Amazima Ononsonyiwa by Jamal Wasswa (2009) 11. Kabirinage by Bebe Cool (2012) 12. Neera by Radio and Weasel (2014) 13. Gyobera by Iryn Ntale (2014) 14. Katiki tiki by Angela kalule (2012) 15 Alululu by Fred Masagazi (1963) 16. Kantambule naawe by Juliana Kanyomozi (2010) 17. Lowoza Kunze by Elly Wamala(1969) 18. One and only by Geoffrey Lutaaya (2014) 19. Olibera nange by Juliana Kanyomozi (2014) 20. Kezia Nambi by Omulenzi Omutooro (1994)
To comment on the countdown, please send an email to info@chano8.com or go to our facebook page @chano8
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Chano8 MUSIC VIDEO
WUUYO
A Pass Da Teacher
W
UUYO is a soft Reggae song by A Pass aka The Teacher and produced by Jamaican Alex (A.I.P) And Ugandan Nessim from (BadiMusik).
This song is the official sound track for the BalaBala Ssese movie and a love song that A Pass real names Alexander Bagonza revealed had a personal attachment to him. 'Wuuyo' loosely translated as ’the one’ is done in two versions while sharing the same video concept. This particular song by the multi-talented song writer, singer and producer just goes as far as to explain how gifted and versatile the young artiste is. Just after breaking through the music scene last year with songs like ‘Tuli Kubigere’, 'I am loving and 'Tetubatya’, the youngster is now comfortably rubbing shoulders with established artistes in Uganda like Bebe Cool for whom he wrote another block buster song 'Everywhere I go’. The video which was recently launched at Guvnor at a colourful premiere night is the main reason we are discussing the song. Credit has to be given to director Lukyamuzi (Badiworld) and the team from iVisualz for a creative concept and story line which is captivating and engaging unlike many music videos in Uganda that run against play. Do not be deceived by the simplicity of the concept but this is a well written and well planned music video with a rich storyline basing on unconditional love a man has for his young lover. The love grows gradually with simple items exchanged in between outings and dates. It is an African village setting, so the main man (Michael Kasaijja) has to employ all techniques and resources available at his disposal to win the young beautiful village belle. These include a visit to the lakeside, forest walks and gifts like wild fruits and seeds. Naturally of course his challenge is always bumping into the girl’s parents although eventually it happens after he gathers the courage to pay his love a visit at their home. The girl’s mother seems to approve of the relationship.. However, the viewer is left in suspense as to what happens next after the girl’s father has a serious encounter with the young man. Just like most good stories, this one leaves you yearning for more as you wish to continue with the story with tension building up. A Pass on the other hand has a simple task of just singing and dancing gently in a corridor. The brown shades create a cooling effect that compliments his black attire and complexion along with the reflections to heighten an illusion of movement. We love this video!
Chano8. April 2015
Music Video
MUSIC VIDEO Chano8
A Pass has already done wonders ever since he broke into the music scene.
It is an African village setting so the main man (Michael Kasaijja) has to employ all techniques and resources available at his disposal to win the young beautiful village belle. These include a visit to the lakeside, forest walks and gifts like wild fruits and seeds.
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Micheal Kassaija (R) and a vixen in the music video
Chano8. April 2015
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Chano8 MOVIE REVIEW
Enjoy Cinema Life
Movie Review
Recently premiered Furious 7 follows Dominic Toretto (Diesel), Brian O'Conner (Walker) and the rest of their crew, who have returned to the United States to live normal lives after securing amnesties for their past crimes in Fast & Furious 6 But hold on...
Now In Cinemas
FAST & FURIOUS 7
F
ast and Furious 7 is much better than any of the previous that have been produced. Not only were the punch lines rib cracking but the mere fact that it celebrated the life of Paul Walker, who passed away last year in a car accident. When the movie premiered in Uganda on April 2 at the Naalya based Cinema Magic courtesy of Cheki Uganda, it pulled in a massive crowd with everyone excited about the fiction they were about to see. Staring Vin Diesel, Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, Jason Statham, Michelle Rodriguez and the late Paul Walker among others. It’s hard to think of another contemporary film series that has run this long while continuing to afford so much pleasure. The directors of the movie managed to pull off something of a miracle especially when it came to the CGI trickery of Paul Walker. They managed to deliver on every single note that managed to satisfy most fans, their expressions and laughter’s expressed it all. Running for 2hrs and 20 minutes, Deckard Shaw (Jason Statham), seeks to avenge his brother's (0wen Shaw) captors Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) and his crew helped. The movie gets real emotional at the end as the tribute of Paul Walker flashes in front of your eyes. It’s a must watch.
Chano8. April 2015
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SONG REVIEW Chano8
Song Review
SOKA LAMI Naava Grey
Naava Grey in Soka Lami viseo
Naava Grey is a multi-talented Ugandan singer, lyricist and performer has passionately modelled her singing career within genres such as Ganda folklore, Rock and RnB creating a neo Afro-pop vibe which is a very distinctive sound. She is very versatile young artiste who sings in her native Luganda language as well as in English.
N
aava Grey has been one artiste who takes time to work her craft and always wants nothing but quality and will never settle for less. She is definitely shooting for the stars and she won’t settle for anything other than originality and class. Her style is distinctively unique and gathering pace. She is always patient and never rushes to produce ‘bubble gun music just for the sake of survival' a music critic once said of her. In Soka Lami (which means my Lover in Zulu), Naava once again produces a master piece that will impact massively on the music scene on the continent or even on the globe in future.
Chano8. April 2015
This is Naava’s first single under a new partnership deal she signed with Rockstar 4000 (RS4K) a global music label, The Fame Company and FlyCorp Uganda that promises to be a long term project to hit the heights. The ‘Ninga Omuloge’ singer features “Speedy” whose abrupt entry creates a much needed interruption to blend with the silky voice of Africa’s next music big Diva. Naava swings between Zulu, English and Luganda for the chorus and a verse creating a beautiful and capturing melody that easily settles on the ear. Soka Lami has a masterly rich composition and production that is amazingly ballistic with an Afro-soul and
slow south African kwela feel to it. Produced by young prodigy producer Josh Wonder and the evergreen, D-king, the background and back-up vocals are on point and get fans singing along. This surely will potentially be her continental break-through hit that will keep Africa buzzing and excited. The video produced to narrate the story has a captivating story line with an African theme. All the wardrobe and makeup is complimenting each other with the setting that is on point too. We hope this is going to propel the BEFITA nominee to greater heights soon.
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Chano8 AFRIGO BAND
Live Music Scene
Band Review
Afrigo Band
One of the oldest and most celebrated bands in Uganda was formed in November 1975 by a group of talented but inexperienced and adventurous young musicians who broke away from one of the leading bands of the time, The Crane Band, to form a band of their own that has thereafter helped expand the scope of live music variety in Uganda..
T
he inexperienced youth had taken a big risk and gamble in life yet today, 40 years later, the band is still unrivalled for the honours of Uganda’s most enduring, most critically-acclaimed and most influential productive band in the history of the country’s music industry. Many music lovers and critics like Miles Rwamiti and Joseph Batte generally agree that, Afrigo is Uganda’s greatest band ever. It would take probably a month or so to write a
Chano8. April 2015
detailed review of hundreds of pages about the colourful journey of one of Uganda’s most ever consistent group of professionals.
zi’ ‘Genyama’ ‘Oswadde Nyo’,’ Olumbe Lw’obwavu’ and ‘Speed’. In its 40 years of existence, the band has released 21 albums. That is an amazing feat.
HIT COLLECTION
TALENT ALL OVER
In 1994, Afrigo became the first Ugandan music outfit to record an album on CD with the release of the ‘Omutanda Gyali’ which had the monster hit ‘Jim’. And over the years, they churned out hit after hit and still continue to dominate the airwaves and dance floors to this day with songs like ‘Jim’,’ Obangaina’, ‘Maria’, ‘Amaz-
From band leader Moses Matovu to Percussions Discussion Africa director Herman Ssewanyana to Joanita Kawalya and Rachel Magoola,the band is littered with talent all over with many of the musicians leaving their footprints in Uganda’s music annals.
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AFRIGO BAND Chano8
Band and a fan favourite.
Afrigo band wouldn’t have come this far if not for the band leader Moses Matovu who has not only instilled discipline in the band, but also steered it in the right direction, patiently nurturing band members and schooling them in music. While many of the band’s legends and founder members like Deo Mukungu, Charles Ssekyanzi, Tony Ssengo, Rashid Musoke and Godfrey Mwambala have since died, Afrigo has continued to excel, thanks to the band’s ability to attract new talent nurturing and churning out talented musicians by recruiting young blood for continuity like Peter Bazanye aka Rude Boy Devo and Joe Tabula. Afrigo band wouldn’t have come this far if not for the band leader Moses Matovu who has not only instilled discipline in the band, but also steered it in the right direction, patiently nurturing band members and schooling them in music.
Chano8. April 2015
Don Canta Ibanda: Energetic vocalist with a strong voice and performs alongside Matovu in most songs.
third and last Friday of the month.
Justine Matu: He plays the lead guitar and is usually animated on stage when songs climax.
The Band plays mostly their original compositions although once in a while do covers as well described as Afro beat, afro pop or afro rumba.
Frank Mbalire: Mbalire is another veteran of Ugandan music best known for the 90s hit Sirikusuula, plays the guitar at Afrigo.
THE BAND MEMBERS
Charles Busuulwa: Although a laid back person, the ever-smiling bass guitarist can play the guitar as if his life depends on it.
Moses Matovu: The inspirational and influential musician is a founder member born on 19th June 1950. He is the band leader believed to be the heart and soul of the band and besides being the lead soloista lso plays the flute, saxophone and several instruments . Joanita Kawalya: Has been with the band for over 25 years as the lead female vocalist.
PERFROMANCES Afrigo has been performing at Club Obbligato in Industrial area (Friday and Saturday) for decades until recently when they moved to Little Flowers in Bat Valley as well as stints at Jazz Ville in Bugolobi and most recently in Club Silk where they perform every second
Dan Kaggwa Seninde: The multi-talented instrumentalist is the aband’s keyboardist, a master at the piano and the organ.
Racahel Magoola of the Obangaina fame like Joanita has been in the music scene for over two decades .She is a vocalist, dancer and composer. Herman Sewanyana: An acclaimed drummer with the Percussion Discussion Africa, plays the tumba in Afrigo
Eric Sabiiti: A Consistent drummer with vigour and valour. Peter ‘Rude Boy’ Bazanye is a musical all-rounder and can sing Reggae and traditional folk known for the song 'Sembera ' Jacinta Wamboka: The lead dancer, Jacinta is also a gifted singer and her hit Kyusa Kubulamu is very popular with the fans. Sarah Wamboka is a talented and stylist dancer is also a fan favourite with her graceful moves and killer smile.
TOP HANGOUTS CHANO8 MAGAZINE
HANG OUTS Chano8
Hangout Uganda
LAFTAZ COMEDY LOUNGE
Poolside Centinery Park - Kampala
L
aftaz Comedy Lounge is the home of Mic Check and The Kings of Comedy night located at the Pool side in Centenary Park at the heart of Kampala.
The place boasts as one of Kampala’s top comedy centres with a collection of talented stand-up comedians and entertainers performing here at least twice a week. The most notable night being the Extreme comedy every Wednesday that brings together a mix of experience and upcoming stars. This is where the likes of Mc King Kong, Napoleone Ehmah, Dr. Dolibondo, Arthur, MC Kapale, Dikhanio, Kobusheshe, Bush, Wasswa Snake and Zolo among others showcase their talents. The comedy nights sponsored by Mirinda, are usually hosted by The Emperor, Bright Onak , Albreezy and Arnold have become a source of stress remedy for many corporate and Kampala’s middle class work force. Apart from comedy, the lounge also hosts a live
band and battle between young artistes as well as other theme nights like the ‘Crazy Saturdays’ that run through the week. Lately, some revelers have thronged the place to enjoy Shisha and a variety of drinks on offer. The simple but artistic structures of the lounge create a serene and sober environment that helps relax the mind with the grass thatched roof and open walls bringing in a natural cooling effect to loungers as they relax. Most of the furniture is wooden and the roof is supported by poles like an African mud and wattle hut with the occasional sponsor’s banners creating the ‘artificial’ interior design and decoration. For young couples looking for a quite dating venue, this is the right place especially on a weekday. There are also a variety of takeaways and local specialities for those who like a quick bite.
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What’s On! K'ANGIE BAND Angella Kalule and the K'Angie performs every Saturday at Jazzville Bugolobi on Bandali close. The veteran singer presents some top cover songs as well as her original compositions like 'Katikiti live on stage with last Band standing winner 'kangie Band in full support.
WALE WALE Jose Chameleone's Wale Wale Double Trouble concert will take place on May 1st at the Kyadondo rugby club. The Ugandan music doctor is expected to feature some top artistes from across the East African region.
Gagamel Bebe Cool (Big size) together with the Gagamel Band performs live every Tuesday at Club Amnesia starting at 7:00pm A Night of Live music and fresh Vibes FREE ENTRY Nile Gold @ 3,500/=
LAFTAZ Comedy LAFTAZ Comedy night every Wednesday at the Laftas Lounge in Centenary Park. Show starts at 8:00pm with a collection of high profile comedians ENTRANCE is 10,000/=
What’s On! GUNDEZE DIAMOND King Saha's Gundeze Diamond concert is on at Freedom City on May 1st 2015.
Radio And Weasel Goodlyfe crew of Radio and Weasel will be launching thier latest Album dubbed Best of Radio and Weasel at Hotel Africana on 8th May. Entrance fee is 50,000/= for VIP section and 30,000/= for general happiness.Artistes like Bebe Cool, Bobi Wine, Juliana Kanyomozi and Desire Luzinda will perform.
Campus Night Angenoir presents the “The original” Campus Night every Thursday! Ladies with University ID’s get in free before mid-night and gents, only 6k! Buy Club beer at only 2k all night long!!! FEE6,000/=
Spicy Divas Every Wednesday is Spicy divas at Club Amnesia Music By DJ POFIA FREE ENTRY Happy Hour All Beers @ 3,000/= Till 9:05PM
Fun factory Fun factory comedy show at National Theatre every Thursday. Lots of fun and guest performances from artistes.Rib cracking jokes and skits. ENTRANCE: 15,000/=