Chano8 Magazine July 2015 Issue

Chano8

FREE

DIGITAL MAGAZINE

VOL.1 ISSUE NO. 012 JULY 2015

www.chano8.com FASHIONSHOOT: NICKITA

CLICK TO READ

MCKENZIE NUTTY NEITHAN BENON MUGUMBYA

Gadgets

& Style STUDIO

All the hip

EVENTS FASHION EXCLUSIVE

DIARY

Onyango

GARETH Fashion

Music

Travel

Gossip

Interviews

Facebook.com/chano8

Or follow us on Twitter @chano8

ENJOY AND RINGTONES OF YOUR FAVOURITE ARTISTES on these networks:

CONTACT US: Mobile: +256 754 348888 Tel: +256 392 266 747/8 Email: info@smsone.co.ug Website: www.smsone.co.ug

AVAILABLE IN:   

Kenya Uganda Rwanda

Tanzania Madacascar  Zambia 



FOR ENTERTAINMENT NEWS LOG ONTO WWW.CHANO8.COM

Contents 42

ALL HIP EVENTS COVERED

08 80 92 96 104

Parties and events Did you miss any event recently?

Worry not for we have covered everthing for you!

Ask Rwamiti Our veteran columnist talks about the pricky subject concerning exploitation of artistes by promoters.

SPECIAL FEATURE Still on the subject of exploitation, what exactly is the role of the manager in all this mix?

FASHION SHOOT Nickita Bachu works at Club venom and does alot of marketing. She also has a high fashion sense SPECIAL FEATURE: PLAN B International tours and concerts abroad. Are they really worth the hype. We investigate.

108 110 112 120 126

LYRICS CORNER Sauti Sol will be performing at Kampala Serena Hotel this month. You can learn how to sing thier song 'Nerea' STUDIO DIARY We bring you the inspiring story behind Exodus' new song Party Leo in which he features Kenyan Ringtone.

CAREER CORNER Batenga TheMith is a DJ, Artiste manger, IT guru and farmer. You can read her inspiring story here.

GADGETS AND STYLE Radio personality and MC McKenzie is rocking his favourite gadgets and style this month BEHIND THE MUSIC Veteran music producer and ong writer Benon Mugumya talks music love and life.

96

Chano8 20 DIGITAL MAGAZINE

INFORM. ENTERTAIN. EXCITE

130

RISING STAR: NUTTY NEITHAN

126

BEHIND THE MUSIC: BENON

130

PHOTO SHOOT: NICKITA

5

Chano8. July 2015

138 140 152

RISING STAR Nutty Neithan's song Bakwe Kyonywa is rocking the airwaves. Read about his journey onto the music scene.

COUNT DOWN As usual, we count down the top hits rocking the country on the air waves REVIEWS Irene Ntale has a new captivating love song called Kabugo. Read about it and other reviews we have done.

WHAT'S ON All the major upcoming events and parties in the entertainment scene

FORWARD

PUBLISHER’S CREDITS

Chano8

DIGITAL MAGAZINE

CREATIVE EDITOR

FOREWORD

H

ello there, Bebe Cool provided a lot of talking points and raised eyebrows when he finally released his Go Mama album which many agreed matches the coveted international standards.

We have since reviewed the album just for you to get a sneak peak of what the Gagamel boss was up to.

Album launches and concerts have been flying fast and furious in the last few days. June was action packed and we captured most of it just for your pleasure in case you missed them.

As we promised earlier, we are here to raise the level of the game when it comes to promoting local talent in the entertainment industry. And because of that, we have unveiled new talent and also had exclusive chats with some key players in the growth and development of the music and entrainment sector.

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

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 Tel: +256 392 266748/7

Don't forget our columnist Miles Rwamiti who answers your questions concerning topical issues.

Plus all the usual count downs, Fashion, reviews and the new Coffee break section.

chano8.com

Enjoy your reading!

chano8

The Chano8 Team

info@chano8.com

@chano8 www.chano8.com

THE TEAM

Chano8

Chano8 DIGITAL MAGAZINE

INFORM. ENTERTAIN. EXCITE

READ CHANO8 DIRECTLY ON YOUR SCREEN...

ON YOUR PC, TABLET, SMART PHONE OR ON CD

For All Your Fresh Entertainment, Lifestyle and Gossp News, Log onto

www.chano8.com FOR ADVERTISING SPACE CALL +256 776 343 888

Chano8 MIRINDA MISS TEEN

SEETA HIGH

MISS Contestants at Seetah High

Leila Kayondo with queen dancers

Miss Yvonne Mugeni was crowned 2015 Mirinda Miss Teen (Seeta High) and the next day Vanessa Michelle Nansoove was crowned 2015 Mirinda Miss Teen (Nsambya Girls) as the 2015 Mirinda Miss Teen kicked off its school tours at with Seeta High Scool and St. Joseph’s Girls Nsambya to a lot of excitement among students of the two schools that have previously produced Mirinda Miss Teens.

Lukoma They Helleon walked away withjoins Leila Kayondo cool headphones

8

Chano8. July 2015

Mirinda Miss Teen is a beauty pageant which seeks to look for the teenage girl who is smart, intelligent, playful, bold and funloving. The pageant is being carried out in various high schools in Uganda.

This year’s theme is; “Work Hard, Play Hard” and will involve a search for a girl who is not only beautiful and smart but is also fun-loving. The grand crowning ceremony is set for August in Kampala.

MIRINDA MISS TEEN Chano8

TEEN The winners receive their gifts from Mirinda

The Judges follow proceedings

GO MAMA The contestants in mirinda casual wear get excited

9

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 GO MAMA ALBUM

LISTNER'S PARTY

Calvin-UBC, MaKenzi and DJ Aludah of Radiocity

W

hen Bebe Cool said that he would revolutionize music in Uganda and carry the flag way high, several critics doubted and could be heard laughing it off. But, that came to halt earlier in the month where all the biggest critics of the Ugandan music industry were blown away with most of the songs they heard off the Go Mama album.

Bebe Cool called on most of the critics

10

Chano8. July 2015

Bebe Cool takes critics through the album

to give their opinions of what they had heard, most praised the songs, especially his rock song tilted ‘Freedom’ which was written by Micheal Fingaz and Esther Nabasa, which showed he can move away from his comfort zone and is hungry and always looking for new ways to further push his stature a notch higher.

However, some critics felt some of his songs were too high end for his fans ‘down town’, but their fears were quickly put to rest by the fact that the album

GO MAMA ALBUM Chano8

AT SILK LIQUID

DJ Shiru with Afrigo's veteran singer Moses Matovu

1

has so many styles which can appeal to all categories of fans.

The Gagamel boss also thanked the writers like A Pass who wrote ‘African girl’ and Benon for his work done on ‘Go Mama’ and ‘Make the world dance’ among others.

Bebe Cool indeed delivered on what he had promised for the event and that was to explain each song on the album in detail so that fans and the press 1

11

Chano8. July 2015

don’t misunderstand the album.

Comedian Patrick Salvador Idringi who had just had a sold-out One man show also turned up for the event to thank Bebe Cool, for having curtain raised for him and to also show his support for the singer whom he regards as a mentor.

When it was all said done, those who thought Bebe Cool could never top ‘Love you everyday’ were left asking for a replay of the ‘Freedom’ song which completely blew almost everyone away.

Chano8 GO MAMA ALBUM

Dembe FM's Kasuku shares his take on the album

Bebe Cool kneels down for Juliana Kanyomozi

It was a full house at Liquid Silk Producer Benon Mugumbya of Swangz Avenue

12

Chano8. July 2015

GO MAMA ALBUM Chano8

Chameleones DJ Babylove gave a thumbs up

Pastor Wilson Bugembe too was there to appreciate the album

13

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Bebe Cool takes on a fan

14

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

NTV's Douglas Lwanga with a fan

15

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 GO MAMA LISTENER'S PARTY

...DISCUSS

Juliana Kanyomozi consults a pal during discussion

These fans are seem to all agree on the same point

16

Chano8. July 2015

Bebe Cool dances for wife Zuena Kirema

GO MAMA LISTENER'S PARTY Chano8

AND PARTY

SMS ONE's Elizabeth and David Mushabe contributing

Bebe Cool jokes with A Pass Selector Jay of Radio City and Guvnor shares his take on the album

17

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 EDDY KENZO EXPERIENCE

FUN AT EDDY KE

Kenzo makes a grand entrance

Man of the moment Kenzo waves at fans during the Eddy Kenzo experience

The Eddy Kenzo Experience went down recently at Kampala's premium club Guvnor with a full house.

Host Douglas Lwanga with Rema Namakula

The special theme night dedicated to Kenzo's rise from Zero to Hero was to unplug the Sitya Loss star in appreciation of his hardwork which has seen him become a global star.

He arrived at the club in the company of his Big Talent

18

Chano8. July 2015

EDDY KENZO EXPERIENCE Chano8

NZO EXPERIENCE

Tip Swizzy opened the night

Entertainment crew and baby mama Rema Namakula.

Guests who came as far as Germany and West Africa complied to the Black and Gold dress code and cheered him on when he finally took to the stage to perform some of his top hits.

He promised to take Uganda's music to the international scene and also took the opportunity to thank those who helped him rise so fast

19

Chano8. July 2015

SMS ONE team represented

Chano8 SITUKA PREMIERE

Shines At Glamorous

Star struck: Fans surround Bobi Wine

Bugingo (2nd L) Bobi Wine (C) and the main cast

Fanfactory's Hannington Bugingo flanked by his Fun Factory team including Anne Kansiime, Dixon Zizinga, Catherine Bagaya and Richard Tuwangye, among others, debuted his first full-length film, Situka.

Bobi Wine who plays the lead role in the movie with comedian Dickson Zizinga

20

Chano8. July 2015

Situka is a socially-conscious film about two lovers Amanio (Helen Lukoma), an ambitious young woman with a passion for politics and Mugagga (Bobi Wine) an industrious young man with a dare devil attitude

SITUKA PREMIERE Chano8

Situka Movie Premiere

Richrd Tuwangye, Simon Base Kalema And Frobisher Lwanga

The young ladies waiting for the moment to be entertained.

Hannington Bugingo talks about his movie

21

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 SITUKA PREMIERE

Ghetto President

Bobiwine premiered his movie and was accompanied by wife Barbra Itungo and several other actors and top comedians

22

Chano8. July 2015

SITUKA PREMIERE Chano8

With partners

23

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Massive show: Catherine Kusasira

24

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

CATHERINE KUSASIRA Chano8

KUSASIRA The GOLDEN BAND STAR SURPRISED MANY WITH A FULL HOUSE SHOW

The concerts have been coming thick and fast although there were doubts over the ability of Golden Band's Catherine Kusasira to pull off a big crowd for her concert. She then surprised many and disproved her critics when a mammoth crowd descended at Hotel Africana to witness her album launch

A

lthough several critics were anticipating Catherine Kusasira’s show to flop, things turned out differently as her show, which was held at Hotel Africana was completely sold out.

With CBS’ Meddie Nsekero and Beat FM’s Ruth Wanyana hosting the event, the crowd wasn’t about to be bored as they kept cracking them up with some mature jokes.

The show started off with a low tempo as several artistes came out to pay their respects to the late member Hariet Kisakye of the Golden Band who passed away recently. Then Sophia Natongo and the Obsessions had the crowd grooving, but when Kinene Micheal who was dressed in an orange shirt with black trousers and coat stepped on stage, he brought the

25

Chano8. July 2015

ladies to their feet with his omukazi tagwa beeyi which worked as a charm because several ladies danced and wiggled to the tune.

Keeping in mind the time factor, Catherine Kusasira looked stunning in a white and gold gown as she took center stage something that was welcomed with a loud cheer. Starting off with Nararira and Lovetenda, some fans couldn’t help but jump on stage and dance to show their support for the star.

As she kept her fans entertained, she welcomed the young rising star, Gravity Omutujju on stage who performed Olimba with her. His lyrics were just too funny as they had everyone cracking up. When Catherine took a break, Gravity went on to perform his other song Motto niwaka.

Then next came Gagamel boss Bebe Cool who pushed the tempo to unprecedented heights Even though he performed for a short time, he

showed his humble side by kneeling down to thank the fans for coming out to support Kusasira and also accepted them to come and support him for his concert which is slated for August 7th.

Several artists like Jose Chameleone, Stecia Mayanja, Hilderman, Maureen Natume and Mesach Semakula among others also performed at the event.

The show was truly a splendid one and it’s no wonder they saved the best for last when all the members of the Golden band took center as they performed most of their songs.

The highlight of the night was however when Uganda' music doctor Jose Chameleone stepped on stage to entertain the revellers and ended up at the feet of celebrated herbalist Mama Fiina who donated loads of cash to him to the chargrin of the fans.

Chris Evens later followed suit and got cash too for his efforts

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

There were some crazy dances too

26

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Mesach Semakula doing his thing

27

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Stecia Mayanja turned up in a thorny golden outfit

28

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Jose Chamekeone takes on a dancer

29

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Her flawless gown was on point

30

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Bebe Cool with his base guitarist Fauzik

31

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 CATHERINE KUSASIRA

TOUGH: Bruno K. and Allan Guests having fan at Toniks belt out ballads Hotel Africana

Jose Chameleone receives cash from Mama Fina The fans getting excited

32

Chano8. July 2015

CATHERINE KUSASIRA Chano8

The Eagles Production back up singers were smart Well turned out fans

Promotor Musa Kavuma was in charge of the event

33

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 MAN FROM OMBOKOLO

The Man From Ombok

T

he Man From Ombokolo comedy show at the Serena Hotel, Kampala on June 2nd was by far the biggest one-man comedy show ever in as it attracted a full house and a record was set

The show was opened by a stelar guitar performance from Myco Ouma followed by Gagamel boss Bebe Cool in a live performance of his hits

34

Chano8. July 2015

including the now famous Love You Everyday.

Fellow comedians such as Alex Muhangi, Pablo, Daniel Omara and FunFactorys Anne Kansiime and Richarf Tuwangye and many others represented the Comedy fraternity.

Man of the night Salvador then hit the stage led by 3 Lingala dancers from home village Ombokolo as the whole audience applauded with excitement.

MAN FROM OMBOKOLO Chano8

olo Rocks Serena Solo

Salvador then took his audience through an energy packed two hour's of rib-cracking humour. A mixture of both his old and new jokes laced with great imagination. Observers believe the success of the show was highly attributed some local stars who created hype through social media like Bebe Cool, Anne Kansiime, and Navio among others who tirelessly encouragied their fans to grace the show.

35

Chano8. July 2015

The VIP section was full with some big names like Charles Hamya of Multi choice, Rajiv Ruparelia, Godfrey Kirumira junior, singers Apass, Navio, Irene Ntale, Iryn Namubiru, Lilian Mbabazi, Helen Lukoma, Socialite Judith Heard, comedienne Anne Kansiime with hubby Ojok among others laughing.

The show closed at 11:30 pm with attention shifting to Bebe Cool’s Go Mama listener’s party taking place at Liquid Silk.

BUZZ TEENIES AWARDS

36

Chano8. July 2015

BUZZ TEENIEZ AWARDS

Bebe Cool and the Gagamel Band cutain raised for Salvador

37

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 MAN FROM OMBOKOLO

Laughter

The rich also laugh

Even top comedienne Anne Kansiime and husband Ojok died of laughter

38

Chano8. July 2015

Nana Kaggwa of "Beneath the Lies" and Lukoma

MAN FROM OMBOKOLO Chano8

More Laughter Pherrie Lubs Kimbugwe (C) with friends enjoying

Irene Ntale hides her face

This VIP table was 'loaded'

Urban TV'sGaetano Jjuko Kaggwa

39

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 MAN FROM OMBOKOLO

Richard Tuwangye and his date were tight

Laughter knows no age

FUFA president Moses Magogo and a friend enjoy the show Alex Muhangi too was there

40

Chano8. July 2015

MAN FROM OMBOKOLO Chano8

Roger Mugisha whispers sweet nothings

NTV 's Agness Konde (C) with Anne Abeja (L) and a friend

41

Chano8. July 2015

OKUZAALA KUJAGAANA

Leah Kalanguka 42

Chano8. July 2015

DANCE: Namatovu's song has become a favourite of

MISS UGANDA UNVEILING Chano8

MISS

UGANDA UNVEILING THE FINALISTS FOR MISS UGANDA 2015-2016 As earlier predicted, former abused child Aisha Nabukeera made it to the final 21 however, Akello Prossy who was crowned the Miss North on the very first weekend of the regional tours was missing to the surprise of everyone who turned up for the unveiling night at Kampala Serena Hotel.

T

he search for 2015/16 Miss Uganda beauty queen is heating up after 21 girls were unveiled to the public by Miss Uganda Foundation, at Kampala Serena Hotel recently.

The glamorous night attracted several star studded audence which included glamour girls, former beauty queens, business and media personalities, entertainers and models to the event that concluded the regional searches.

Hosted by former Miss Uganda contestant, Jaylor Birungi, and comedian Ronnie MacVex, the Mirindasponsored night started off with outgoing Miss Uganda, Leah Kalanguka leading a session of last year's Miss Uganda regional winners on the runway with wide smiles.

Then shortl,y the new contestants were introduced to the public for the first time as they made their way

43

Chano8. July 2015

onto the runway. The 21 contestants walked magestecally with some looking extremely confident as the smiles flashed all over the place.

The most eye cathing being contestant number 3 who drew the most attention for obtious reasons; her bold stand to take on this huge challenge inspite of her scarred skin. This is non other than Aisha Nabukeera, 20

The glamorous night attracted several glamour girls, former beauty queens, show business people, entertainers and models to this event that concluded the regional searches

years of age who came into the limelight in 2006 after being saved from gross abuse including scalding by her step mother and adopted by businessman Frank Gashumba. She stole the show by exposing her badly scarred arms to the public for the first time since the gross pictures emeged in the newspapers more than a decade ago.

The public was surprised and amazed at the same time as she oozed confidence on stage and looked undeterred.

This prompted one of the pageant's sponsors, Samona Beauty products to sponsor her for a year with beauty products.

There were musical performances from singer Irene Ntale, Lydia Jasmine and Apass and speeches from the event's sponsors Mirinda and Miss Uganda franchise holder, Brenda Nanyonjo.

The 21 girls selected have since been undergoing a 20-day's nurturing at the boot camp in Kampala for some activation nights en route the grand finale on July 10.

Chano8 MISS UGANDA UNVEILED

Here are the 20

44

Chano8. July 2015

MISS UGANDA UNVEILED Chano8

15 Contestants

45

Chano8. July 2015

Singer Lydia Jazmine entertaions the guests

46

Chano8. July 2015

The hosts Ronnie MacVex and Jaylor Birungi

47

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 MISS UGANDA UNVEILED

More Conte

48

Chano8. July 2015

stants...

49

Chano8. July 2015

MISS UGANDA UNVEILED Chano8

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

The smile says it all

50

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

A Pass sings Wuuyo, Wuuyo, Wuuyo!

51

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 MISS UGANDA UNVEILING

SMS ONE's Elizabeth Mushabe checks out photos of contestants on her phone

Attentive: Song bird Juliana Kanyomozi (L) and her friends watch the contestants

Former winners Bizzu and Ellah looking stunning Time for cocktail for these beauties

52

Chano8. July 2015

MISS UGANDA UNVEILING Chano8

Frank and and daughter Sheila Gashumba egrossed into thier phones

Radio personality Roger mugisha and hubby feeling cozy

53

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 KHALIFA AGANAGA

KHALIFA

AGANAGA The Ugandan Singer had his maiden concert at Club Ambience Parking lot

Khalifa Aganga’s concert dubbed Nassanga Guddy Guddy Gal which was held in the parking lot of the Bakuli based Ambience club left many with mixed feelings perhaps because of the endless sound glitches and epic fail from the live band

A

lthough some people questioned his choice of venue (Club Ambience parking) the defiant singer insisted that he had a slim budget but was optimistic it would still yield dividends. He however also added that artistes like Ziza Bafana held successful concerts in the same area before and succeeded. So when D-Day came Aganaga was in high spirits for his maiden concerts The concert had been in preparation for 12 months. Initially, it was set for Kati Kati gardens but that changed because the venue was booked for other functions However, although the show kicked off early enough, very few people warmed to the opening acts from artistes like Rema Namakula, MunG, Red Top, Obsessions Africa, Minayo and others.

The the star of the night Aganaga arrived, clad in a White oufit and mask emerged from the audience like a ‘Heavenly king’ atop a pearly

54

Chano8. July 2015

white chair belting out lyrics from ‘Minakonda’, one of his older songs.

He was carried by muscled men on his chair like a true king ready to be worshipped as his 'loyal subjects', the fans, screamed his name in delight. With his mother and relatives in the VIP section, Aganaga was in buoyant mood.

Things however took a nasty twist immediately after he joined the live band on stage because the sound was not clear and fans could hardly hear him. The revellers in the back seats who could not take it anymore, began to chant, “Tetuwulira” meaning “we are not hearing”.

Khalifah had planned earlier to have the concert in sessions and said that the concert would consist of three stages and he would perform for an hour and a half although things changed after the live band failed.

With his hard-to-define music genre, it was hard for the band to keep up. As the tempo kept shifting from Afro beat to reggae and then dancehall where he performed songs like ‘Mikono’ ‘Wagulu’, ‘Ekitangaza’ and ‘Ndabirawa’.

His audience which mostly comprised of downtown ‘regular people’ did not appreciate the live band music. They kept asking Aganaga to sing the real songs that they are used to with others threatening to ask for refund if things were not sorted out.

After the DJs calmed the situation down the sound went off completely which forced Aganaga to revert to singing from a CD - karaoke style to the amusement of th fans.

Though the show kicked off early enough, very few people warmed to the opening acts from artistes like Rema Namakula, Mun-G, Red Top, Obsessions Africa, Minayo and others.

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Khalifa Aganag's mother was also in the crowd and was introduced to the fans

55

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Khalifa Aganaga joined by a dancer who wriggled away

56

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Coco Finger(R) joined his old time friend on stage

57

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Khalifa Aganaga engages his fans on stage

58

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Rapper Mun-G was there to support a brother

59

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 KHALIFA AGANAGA

Excit e m en t As

Cheers to Chano8

Aganaga was carried in style like a king

Mr Mosh takes to the stage with dancers Energetic performances

60

Chano8. July 2015

KHALIFA AGANAGA Chano8

Th e stars Joi n ed

The guests getting the feel of the show

Getting the groove on

61

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 NAAVA GREY ALBUM

GREY THE ALBUM

MULTI TALENTED RnB, Afro-Soul singer had her moment to shine It has been long coming and finally Uganda’s extremely talented RNB, Afro-soul diva Naava Grey had her moment to shine. The former Tusker Project Fame contestant held her first major concert to release her maiden album ‘Naava the Album’

T

he 20-track album which was on sale at Gatto Matto where she held her first major concert, features some of her top songs since she appeared on the music scene in 2012 like’ Nteredde’ and ‘Soka Lami’ and brand new ballistic songs freshly recorded under her new Multi dollar contract with Rockstar 4000 (RS4K)/Sony a global music label, the Fame Company and FlyCorp Uganda.

The beautiful Naava dressed in a n aquablue free glowing gown complete with head gear and beautiful African accessories stepped on stage at 8pm where she was welcomed to ululations from fans who had come in as early as 5pm.

The highly Multi-talented singer, songwriter and performer who had promised a 'music tsunami' this year finally had her moment to shine and did not disappoint with her flawless two-hour live performance punctuated by short messages of appreciation to sponsors like Nile Gold and people who have contributed to the growth and development of her music career.

62

Chano8. July 2015

Backed by the highly talented Janzi Band, the passionate, versatile young artiste who can sing in her native Luganda language as well as English, took her fans through her short but productive music journey with popular songs like ‘Ndiwano’, Nteredde’, ‘I do’, ‘Ninga Omuloge’ and ‘Soka Lami’ receiving wild cheers.

During her show, she also paid tribute to her late Dad whom she confessed would be proud of her if he was alive and thanked her Mom, siblings and other relatives for raising her into the young woman she is today although she also had a go at media for reporting falsely about her private life.

Congolese born guitar maestro Charmant Mushaga who was playing lead guitar alongside the Janzi Band excited fans when he did a live collabo that got the fans mostly corporates and A-listers off their seats as he did an animated flow with some Congolese rumba tunes. He also performed one of his Afro-pop songs ‘Adonde Ire’ that sent goose bumps onto the crowd.

Other artistes who supported Naava included Rwandese superstars Jodi Phibi and DJ Pius who flew all the way

from Kigali and did some beautiful songs during which period Naava took a break to catch a breath. They excited fans as they danced and mixed Luganda and Kinyarwanda while thanking the crowd for showing love to Naava.

Others were Shine Omukiga, Naira Ali, Herbert Ssensamba and Janzi Band who also put up a smooth performance to curtain raise for the now new shining star with Radio City’s Peace Menya the MC for the night.

During her show, she also paid tribute to her late Dad whom she confessed would be proud of her if he was alive and thanked her Mom, siblings and other relatives for raising her into the young woman she is today

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

63

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 NAAVA GREY ALBUM

The Exciting

Shine Omukiga opened the performances

Charmant Mushaga doing a live set with Naava

64

Chano8. July 2015

A videographer records Judith Heard and Daniela with friends dancing

NAAVA GREY ALBUM Chano8

performances

Naira Ali sings her heart out Naava grey gets emotional

Naava was accompanied by the electric Janzi Band

65

Chano8. July 2015

Jodhi and DJ Pius came from Kigali to support Naava

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

66

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

67

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 NAAVA GREY ALBUM

Happy Faces

Naava's sister and baby

Look at this photo. I have to place it on Facebook Happy to be part of the crowd. The ladies smile

68

Chano8. July 2015

NAAVA GREY ALBUM Chano8

Enjoying..

A fan applauds Naava Time to shake it off as fans take to the floor

Guitarist Myco Ouma(C) made an appearance This couple looked happy to be together at the show

69

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 CLUB MEGAFEST

AS NIGERIAN SUPERSTAR

Timaya put up a great show in Jinja

C

lub Megafest returned last Month. Hoever. this time round in the Eastern District of Jinja. Despite the earlier disorganization and mix-up involving promoter Ssudi man (real names Saudi Lukwago) failing to pay artiste A pass’ money to perform, Nigerian superstar Timaya managed to pull a massive crowd in Jinja with some fans travelling all the way from Kampala.

Radio and Weasel put up an electric performance but when Timaya took center stage, he pushed the tempo to greater heights as the fans welcomed him with ululations.

The show dubbed Club Megafest-Jinja was indeed going to be legendary considering the fact no international artiste had ever performed in Jinja before.

This also seemed a wise move for Club beer to take the event to the Eastern side of the country to give the fans a glimpse of an international artiste not like it has always been when all shows are held in the city center.

Several artistes like Maro, Sheebah, Peter Miles,

70

Chano8. July 2015

Being the first time in the pearl of Africa, Timaya put up an energetic performance that left fans yearning for more.

CLUB MEGAFEST Chano8

TIMAYA ROCKS FANS AT FEST

Timaya takes on an excited fan on stage at the Club Megafest

Surely, the event did not disappoint, as organisers (Nile Breweries Ltd under their Club Pilsner brand in partnership with Busoga Kingdom) and fans left the venue well contented.

DJ Urban Star was in charge of the discs and turntable while comedian Afande Kerekere and DJ Mosh took the mics as the concert emcees (MCs).

The main man, Timaya, made a grand entrance: after the Goodlyfe Crew’s performance minutes before 1.00am. Then suddenly on came the longanticipated Nigerian artist who hit the stage with

71

Chano8. July 2015

his 'Lai Lai 'song.

And after a few others, he treated the crowd to the song many Ugandans know very well – Sanko.

Before performing 'Bum Bum,' he invited two ladies with big bums to dance with him on stage and engaged them in a provocative dance.

Timaya made a revelation to his fans: “This is my first time here in Uganda, but I wanna tell you, Ugandan girls are the sweetest.”

Due to public demand, Timaya had to perform crowd favourite 'Sonko' again to wrap up things

Chano8 CLUB MEGAFEST

The stars who

David Lutalo Peter Miles

Are they Jinjas' Radio and Weasel?

Back to life Red Banton

72

Chano8. July 2015

CLUB MEGAFEST Chano8

ruled the stage Mun-G Jinja's Irene Ntale

The Original Radio and Weasel doing their thing

Energetic Luo Ambassador Coco Finger Getting acrobatic

73

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

74

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

75

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 CLUB MEGAFEST

Selfies Lets take selfies and post on Facebook

Lydia Jazmine (R) in Jinja with her pals

76

Chano8. July 2015

Frank Gashumba was Mr Mosh(2nd R) and Chagga (L) not with Shiela pose for a photo with fans

CLUB MEGAFETS Chano8

Dances

Selfie time for Afande Kelekele

Fans enjoying the show

The 'muzungus' too attended the concert

77

Chano8. July 2015

78

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

79

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 ASK RWAMITI

Q& A

DO MUSIC PROMOTER 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.

P

romoters and managers are supposed to work for artistes or at least work with artistes but most come up with intentions of exploiting the artistes instead. They usually portray themselves as saviours when their real intention is to exploit the artists.

These promoters should respect the artistes as partners and not exploit them. However most of these promoters know that the artistes are broke and desperate and then come with offers to confuse and bribe them to take advantage of their situation. And because most artistes do not understand things to do with contracts, they fall prey to the so called music promoters.

The international promoters are even worse. They are actually not real promoters but gamblers looking for money and survival apart from a guy called Melo from Sweden who is a bit professional.

The others are after money and con the artistes after convincing them that they are taking them abroad for concerts and tours only to end up in funny places. They accommodate them in their homes instead of booking them in decent hotels and take them to perform in funny small places and pubs with no clear programs and then pay them little money in the end.

Ask Rwamiti 80

Chano8. July 2015

Take for instance the Anne Kansiime's incidence which happened in South Africa where there was poor organisation for an event which happened to attract many people only to be messed up by poor

ASK RWAMITI Chano8

S EXPLOIT ARTISTES?

Anne Kansiime adresses a press conference in Soith Africa

sound, stage disorganisation and the element of money not being paid on time to the performers of the day all courtesy of the promoter who wanted to also be the MC, sound engineer and gate keeper all at the same time.

In the end, the event was messed up by the so called Rich gang led by Ivan Ssemwanga who stormed the place and disrupted proceedings when they started throwing money around to confuse the crowd and seek attention and cheap popularity. The show eventually ended prematurely after Kansiime walked off stage.

The international promoters are even worse.

They are actually not real promoters but gamblers looking for money and survival apart from a guy called Melo from Sweden who is a bit professional.

The artistes themselves also have to cooperate with the few genuine music promoters and not stall on their contracts especially when paid to perform somewhere. Some have the habit of pocketing money and not showing up for concerts. This must stop if they also want to be taken seriously.

I advise these artistes to study the contracts carefully before signing them or get lawyers to interpret for them these things so that they can understand them. They should employ a professional team to work with or better still go to school and study these things.

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

81

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 SPECIAL FEATURE

EXPLOITATION!

Exploitation of Ugandan musicians on the rise: But Who is to blame?

“The talk of musicians getting raw deals out of their talents by unscrupulous managers is as old as the art itself. It is only recently that the problem became profound.

Argued that most of these concerts do not qualify as Album launches. So are listener's parties the way forward?

I

n most cases, scummy managers have taken advantage of musicians’ ignorance about contracts to fleece them off by obtaining money by false pretence.

With songs like Ekinawataka, Congratulations and Twalina Omukwano, Jimmy Katumba was celebrated. He formed Jimmy Katumba and the Ebonies, a drama group that has scaled the heights of theatrical entertainment.

ers were conscripted in to take on the group’s legacy. At the time of his death in 2006, not even the expensive coffin could hide the fact that he died a pauper thanks to that binding act!

What wasn’t the norm almost twenty years ago is now one of those things the industry has grown to accept. Cases of managers turning musicians into cash cows are common.

At the helm of his prowess he ignorantly entered an agreement with the manager. He gave up the rights to his songs and his voice before he flew to the United States to record a country music album.

Some are worse than robbers.

In a case from the past, a powerful lawyer and manager (names withheld) entered a long term contract with a musician to the effect that he (the manager) owned the voice.

For as long as the singer was alive and sung anywhere, the unscrupulous manager was due 50% of those earnings. Little wonder the musician died a pauper.

Those up-to-date with Jimmy Katumba’s story in the 70’s and 80’s attest to this. An embodiment of Ugandan pop star music, he was named the ‘Black Jim Reeves’ for having the finest baritone voices that this country has ever produced.

82

Chano8. July 2015

When he returned, a shocking surprise awaited him. He discovered the name 'Jimmy Katumba and Ebonies' had been changed to 'JK and the Ebonies and the JK had nothing to do with him.

Fast forward 2013. Coco Finger (Moses Okori) and Emma Carlos Mulondo of Twinkle Stars went separate ways. The two enjoyed the highest level of friendship and partnership but like Coco Finger explains to Chano 8 magazine; it was greed on his Mulondo’s part that they split. It was events that followed the CBS end of year party (Enkuuka) which caused them to split.

He lost his fortune and fame as oth-

For as long as the singer was alive and sung anywhere, the unscrupulous manager was due 50% of those earnings.

Little wonder the musician died a pauper.

SPECIAL FEATURE Chano8

Congo Fingerposes for a photo while abroad

83

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8 SPECIAL FEATURE

Former Goodlyfe manager Jeff Kiwa

“Most managers are desperate while some are crooks.

I believe that as management, they are concerned with keeping the talent alive while also making some money but some use us to furnish their lavish lifestyles” “I had been informed well in advance that I would be performing for sh800, 000. However after my performance, I was informed that Mulondo had picked the money. When I asked him for my cut, he told me there was no money because performing for the King of Buganda was in itself an honour for which I shouldn’t be paid,” He recalls.

Coco Finger has since soldiered on his own. He admits that musicians need managers especially if one is to penetrate the corporate world.

“Most managers are desperate while some are crooks. I believe that as management, they are concerned with keeping the talent alive while also making some money but some use us to furnish their lavish lifestyles” he offers.

The Luo ambassador believes all upcoming and established artistes undergo this kind of exploitation.

Enter Weasel, Radio and Jeff Kiwa.

The wars between the singers and their manager, which culminated in a split early this year, are still fresh. For years onlookers who spotted the manipulation by Jeff tried to alert the singers who turned a deaf ear.

By the time they woke up to realize the Goodlyfe franchise wasn’t theirs but was cunningly registered in the names of the calculative manager, he had siphoned enough to sign replacement artistes under Team No Sleep.

When they finally decided to fire

84

Chano8. July 2015

Jeff Kiwa and set up their own structures, it dawned that they were on the verge of losing their jointly owned flats ‘Neverland ranch” to him. It was after they sued Jeff with JW Katende of Sempebwa advocates that they managed to evict Jeff Kiwa and get their house back. On a positive side, Jeff is credited for taking them places.

With him out of the picture, both singers are now on a collision course and could go their separate ways, according to inside information.

For other managers, like Lawrence Labeja, who worked for both Bobi Wine and the Goodlyfe, it is that knack to misappropriate money. He was fired after money went missing over Bobi Wine’s flopped ‘Save the children’ concert.

SPECIAL FEATURE Chano8

Jeff maneged the duo Radio and Weasel before they separated

He was also rescued from jail recently during the “best of Radio and Weasel concert for a sh7m which the singers purportedly picked and never performed.

“Managers and musicians need each other. All they should work on is a level ground which embraces fairness and ethics. That way, the music industry will grow,”

Artistes invite themselves.

According to Malwadde, a thorough music manager should have money because it is quite an expensive venture to get some musicians known. They should also have experience, contacts and should also be enthusiastic and believe in their artiste.

cheating

upon

Stephen Simbengabo Malwadde, a promoter says that some artistes invite the problems on themselves.

He says that whereas it is every artiste's dream to play for a big crowd or support a big act (that is in the case of budding musicians) some are so desperate.

“Some artistes don’t know their worth. What do you do with a musician who cannot sign a cheque or even be comfortable around Shs1 million? They should not complain but learn lessons of the trade. Managers are also businessmen who are looking to make money,” he offers.

He explains that whereas Mun G, Ziza Bafana, Aziz Azion play good music that is appreciated by many on radio, they don’t earn more than less talented artistes who have shrewd managers.

85

Chano8. July 2015

“Besides having money, they should know how the industry works and how it is changing. They should also know the right people,” he avers.

He claims that most local musicians suffer because they don’t have contracts with managers. Some are tied into long term deals with bad managers.

“One should make sure they have an initial period clause (1 year) in which the manager must reach certain goals to enable the contract to continue for a longer period. They should focus on the income and deals brought,” He says.

He blames Jose Chameleone for firing his manager Sam Mukasa and replacing him with little known Robert Nku-

Chameleone and Mutima uke, a.k.a Mutima after 7 years. “He should have fired him earlier although I never backed the replacement,” he says.

The promoter discourages singers from blindly letting their managers sign binding deals on their behalf. “It may seem obvious but it has happened and left artistes in contracts they are uncomfortable with,” He explains that most of the managers like Chameleone’s manager Robert Nkuuke, Ricky Mutebi (Kenzo), Geoffrey Kayemba (Rema, David Lutalo and Chris Evans), plus Dirisa Bukenya (Aziz Azion’s former manager) typify managers who lack the know-how and emerged from nowhere. They are overshadowed by the stars.

In Entertainm CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Eddy Kenzo won a BET Award...

Allahu Akbar. God is the greatest$!!

86

Chano8. July 2015

ent...

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

87

Chano8. July 2015

CelCARTOON Minoeb To Abdu ons Az Chano8

iz

Chano8 GARETH ONYANGO PROFILE

Onyango

STAR TALK

GARETH CLUB MANAGER,EVENTS PROMOTER, FASHION ICON AND BUSINESS MAN

Gareth Onyango is widely known for his club management and events organization skills, not to mention looks that have all the young girls on tenterhooks. He is always draped in the latest trends and fashion yet he carries on with a down to earth manner.

Gareth has been labeled as the biggest club promoter in town, a fashion icon and a public figure to the younger generation.

H

e was born the 4th out of 5 children in Kampala where he has lived most of his life. He went to Newfield Primary School, All Saints Church, Nakasero Primary School, Bat Valley and St. Jude primary school.That was for his primary.

He then went to Wanale View in Mbale for O' level and Standard High – Zana for A' level and later finished his Journalism diploma at UMCAT. Growing up, he always thought he would be in the army or become a politician little did he know he would end up in the entertainment world.

Before club management you might remember him dancing in Obsessions and when that group collapsed, he left with Micheal Kasaijja to form Kombat dancers, but even then he was yet to be known as an influential individual in the industry. His fame came in when he took over management of Club Rouge, which is located in the heart of Kampala on Jinja road.

Gareth is a father of 2 girls and is in a very committed relationship with his long time girlfriend and mother of his child girlfriend Nickita Bachu. He met her in the club and as he says after he got her number through a friend ‘the rest is history’. When it comes to working with Nickita he says it is normal for him and he couldn’t have it any other way, they compliment each other and when it comes to work it is strictly work. He respects her decisions as his colleague and admires her drive which he believes they share in common.

He goes on to say he thinks it is healthy for all couples to work together. They have a beautiful daughter named Kylie who is the center of their world and he hopes with time their family will grow. When is the big day? Well Gareth says when the day has been decided upon, we will all know.

88

Chano8. July 2015

When asked about his ideal date Gareth says he is not much of a candle lit dinner guy but rather a club person. He loves an action packed date, maybe after the dinner. He is not a wine person so he will most definitely be sipping on a beer or whiskey. He points out that as much as he was a dancer before he isn’t sure he can still dance seeing as he doesn’t get the time to do so anymore. His hangouts include Guvnor,Spennah Beach and Casablanca.

He is humored by his recollection of how he got into the club business, he can’t help but smile as he narrates his time with Club Rouge, where he started his career in 2005, it was a random day when he was hanging with the owner of the club and friend Abowe Spear when he suggested they do the first ever Bikini night, they thought it far fetched but still they went ahead to try it. It was a huge success and was later turned into a monthly event. It was then that Gareth was given the role of management and tasked with the role of creating more theme nights and parties to boost the club. Gareth and Nickita not only became the names to throw around in the party society, but also raised Rouge to he standards of the most hip places to hang out in Kampala with the most Glamorous parties.

When Venom Club was opened in Kabalagala on Tirupatti mall, Gareth and Nikita were the obvious choice

Continues to next page

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Onyango Greth 89

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

90

Chano8. July 2015

GARETH ONYANGO PROFILE Chano8 to manage it. The power couple had made a reputation for themselves and by then they were ready for the new challenge.

Club venom became his new home and he runs it with the same zeal, passion and commitment as never before which as seen the club to a hierarchy of club excellence. Venom club hosts a number of parties regularly organised by Gareth such as the annual versace party, beach party every Sunday, a night in the emirates and so much more , the bar enjoys all types of clientele from celebrities, students and corporates. Gareth not only manages Venom club, but also manages a lot of events some not club related. He has worked with the Busy Signal concert and other beach events. He also runs an events company called Yolo Events where they manage different events for different clientele. He also does consultating work for different entities.

Gareth says it takes a lot and indeed is a lot of work to manage events, you have to be updated all the time and aware of what the people want and be able to deliver on promises made. It helps to have contacts and friends in the industry. The common mistakes made in event management, he says is the fact that promoters are still using text book knowledge and old methods of communication for example, use only radio, television and print media to advertise these are means that are worn out and the people have turned to social media disregarding television and radio.

Gareth also noticed that the performers have taken audiences for granted, delaying people at events, this goes back to organizers and time management, which is poor this discourages people to come for your events when there is no consistency. Gareth also speaks about how tiring his job and and goes on to explain that most of his work is during the day despite the common belief that a club manager’s job is mainly at night. What ever time he has left is dedicated to family,business and networking.

91

Chano8. July 2015

When it comes to club management he sums it up as challenging and exciting at the same time. It takes a lot to manage the staff, bar, security and the guests too. It takes a lot to keep a lot of people happy and ensure their club is booked up and everything is moving smoothly every day.

He points out that the night life is now facing competition from private parties, house parties and beach events to mention but a few. Gareth spends a lot of time involved with celebrities such as artist and socialites. He says the easiest artistes to work with include Juliana, who is always on time and will give her best and more to every performance she does, other artists include Rabadaba and Bebe Cool, Radio and Weasel and others. It is his opinion that the music industry is very relaxed at the moment, artists aren’t working as hard as they did before, he refers to the time Radio and Weasel were nominated for Bet, there was a lot of competition and everyone was releasing good music. He says the last 2 years artists like Bebe Cool and Apass have stood out and are doing some good music. He recommends more research in the industry, music promotion and better management teams rather than one person running everything.

He is quite modest when informed of his iconic fashion status and goes on shyly to say he doesn’t see himself as a trend setter or icon of sorts, but he does love nice clothes. he doesn’t dress up to stand out but just what he loves.

Between him and Nikita, she is more involved in fashion than him. When asked him if she pick out his clothes, but he says no and it is actually the other way round(praying she doesn’t read that) hehe. He buys a lot of his clothes from Abryanz collection at GardenCity and others he shop from all over. Among his inspirations, he says they person that inspires him is the television mogul Ryan Seacrest.

He admires his ability to do so much and impact on the broadcasting industry.

You can find the GO MAMA Album on-line from these platforms;

92

Chano8. July 2015

Sponsored by:

Chano8 DIGITAL MAGAZINE

www.chano8.com

CHANO8 MAGAZINE INTRODUCING UGANDA’S MOST AFFORDABLE TELECOM SERVICE

Load airtime, spend it & get it all back.

Dial *100# and select Kizze.

93

Check us out on

www.facebook.com/ugandatelecom.ug or follow us on

Chano8. July 2015

@Uganda_Telecom

Terms & Conditions apply. For more information, call 100 or 0414 333 200. www.utl.co.ug

Chano8 BOLD KAMPALA

BOLD K

Three young ladies conceived the idea for the fashion store

Bold kampala is located on the first floor of Acacia mall.

The idea and concept of the store was conceived by 3 young ladies named Ngyenzi Nunu’ Mugenyi, Janet Mugume and Angel Kalisa.

This store is very unique and every detail looks to have been carefully hand picked. The 3 young directors have a deep love for fashion regardless of the fact that they are not designers themselves.

W

ith their love for fashion and entrepreneurial skills they opened up Bold store which was to be a retail shop for African brands. It was started in June 2012 .Why bold? The ladies say they chose bold for what it stands for. In various ways it describes the designers , what the business stands for and the directors themselves as they saw it a a bold venture.

94

Chano8. July 2015

This store is very unique and every detail looks to have been carefully hand picked The 3 young directors who have a deep love for fashion regardless of the fact that they are not designers themselves.

They say they were inspired by the massive talent in the country, yet there was no exposure for all the clothes being made in the market. Currently it is the talk of the town, especially the local designers,musicians and celebrities who also have a place to showcase their music

BOLD KAMPALA Chano8

AMPALA to the listeners from every where.

They offer a platform for a lot of diverse cultures and designers to showcase what they have to the public.

They refer to the store as a neutral stand for designers and promote all the different brands the same.

At the moment they house over 30 different designers for items such as shoes, bags and jewelry from Win win, 4African, Inzuki, Sebu and others. Clothes from Dare, Sylvia Owori, Kas Wear, OP Uganda, Martha JJabo, Arapapa, Clare Tendo,Mozaic, Rwezioni, Eguana, Kunda, Leap Year, Gloria Wavamuno, Catherine and Sons, Mizyana , Definition and many more.

Make Up from PARAMOUR and music albums from various local musicians.

They have a process and standards that designers have to meet to be able to stock in their outlets. They do not discriminate against designers or fabrics and they leave the creative work

95

Chano8. July 2015

to the designers. They carry out extensive research before taking on different designers just to ensure they fit within the criteria. They say it is rewarding to see the awareness of African designer grow locally.

The large air conditioned store is covered in colorful fabrics that give off a cheerful ambiance as soon as you enter. The girls that work there are with you as you pick out your items of interest and are willing to give you advice where you’re not so sure.

It has large fitting rooms to make you comfortable as you try on different things. Personally, I thought the African/kitenge print,heels, pumps and sandals were to die for!! The items are priced in Uganda shillings and range from Fifty thousand to three hundred thousand. They have something for everyone regardless of their size, taste or preference.

Janet, who is incharge of market-

ing and communications is very hands on and runs a vigorous website and online presence.

They are active on social media and can take orders from anywhere. Discounts are offered on clothes that have been on he shelves for a while. They also inform clients whose contacts they have of new stock.

Like any other business they have challenges, but overcome them with the right attitude that sees each new day and mistake as an opportunity to learn.

Their advice to all the young entrepreneurs is for them to believe in what they are doing and have passion for it because it is this passion that will enable them to get through the hard days. They also advise them to research and always monitor the market for new trends and ideas.

FASHION SHOOT

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

NICKITA EVA BACHU Nickita Eva Bachu is a manager and marketeer at Club Venom alongside her hubby Gareth Onyango. She is a business woman and mother. She loves fashion and showcased her modelling skills to Chano8 in this photoshoot.

Fashion & Style: BLACK ABBA (Charm Towers, Oasis Mall , Acacia mall &Garden City)

Photography by LAMA PHOTOGRAPHY

96

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

97

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

98

Chano8. July 2015

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

99

Chano8. July 2015

100

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Chano8. July 2015

101

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Chano8. July 2015

102

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Chano8. July 2015

103

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Chano8. July 2015

104

Chano8 SPECIAL FEATURE

Are Foreign trips and tours f Ugandan musicians are so desperate to board the plane and perform abroad some wouldn’t mind singing for free even if it meant flying them to Juba.

U

gandan musicians are so desperate to board the plane and perform abroad some wouldn’t mind singing for free even if it meant flying them to Juba.

This confession from singer and song writer Nince Henry speaks volumes. In his estimation, it is a form of ‘international’ endorsement for a musician since it doesn’t happen to everyone. “Some musicians go for free. All they care for is to travel and wake up in another country,” he admits.

We have since learnt that most Ugandan musicians who perform abroad are paid anywhere between $800 (sh2.6m) and $3000 (sh9.8m) depending on individual negotiations and propensity to pull crowds.

Although he exaggerates a bit, Nince Henry who has held concerts in Dubai and Amsterdam before says he was paid in excess of $5,000 (Sh16m) for just one show.

We have since learnt that most Ugandan musicians who perform abroad are paid anywhere between $800 (sh2.6m) and $3000 (sh9.8m) depending on individual negotiations and propensity to pull crowds.

Most perform for crowds that range from Chano8. July 2015

Eddy Kenzo performs in one of his tour concerts abroad

10 to 500 people. They don’t play for crowds at the Madison Square but rather small gigs in Town Halls and pubs.

They are also facilitated with an air ticket or two plus more if the artiste is to move with a band. In the recent case of Kalifah Aganaga, the London based

SPECIAL FEATURE Chano8

or artistes worth the sweat?

105

have landed there so they can book you for other shows,” he explains.

It happens a lot during the Uganda North American Association (UNAA) Convention, where most local acts are booked to entertain all week long.

Since the convention organizers foot most of the costs, the shrewd promoters book them for ‘tours’ in other states other than Boston.

After inexplicably failing to travel for the Ellen DeGeneres show during the time they were a worldwide sensation, the triplets, a.k.a Sitya Loss kids, had their chance recently.

The trio credited for making Eddy Kenzo an acclaimed international star after the Sitya loss video travelled for the first time to London and performed at the Manor Park but their maiden visit wasn’t as rosy as they expected. A promoter who invited them over defaulted on the £1500 (sh7.8m) leaving them at the mercy of sympathizers.

Ugandan artistes are a worthy investment- promoter.

Johnson Mujungu, the CEO of Grajoh Talent Management, who has been pivotal in exporting Ugandan talent in Europe and America, admits that Ugandan music and other art forms like comedy have a very big market in Europe. promoter only provided one ticket for the singer, which left his manager, Emma Mulondo fuming. However, Eddie Kenzo moves with a team of six while Bebe Cool sometimes moves with his Gagamel band, manager Tickietah and his wife Zuena.

Chano8. July 2015

Nince admits that the crowds in Europe and usually small and the musicians usually leverage by performing at other shows rather than the one they were booked. “Not every promoter abroad can afford our air tickets. Some stay in the background and only approach you when you

Mujungu who manages comedian Anne Kansiime, Patrick Salvado Idringi and singer Irene Namubiru says that whereas Ugandan artistes ini-

106

Chano8 SPECIAL FEATURE

Khalifa Aganag(2nd R) while on a mission abroad

tially performed predominantly for Ugandan audiences, the pattern is beginning to change with acts like Eddie Kenzo, Maurice Kirya and Joel Sebunjo who have performed for comparatively larger audiences.

“Ugandan music, like any other, has a market no doubt. You will have noticed how successful Eddy Kenzo has been at it. But success abroad starts at home. See what the Nigerians are doing? Support from the fans and systems in place, and then the rest of the world appreciates or is forced to love,” He says.

Mujungu believes that for Ugandan acts to get that international acclaim, they need to have improved professional management and deliberate publicity. As it is most of the musicians perform for audiences that understand the language, the lingo, the slang, the connotations, the cultural suggestions, that kind of thing.

“These guys (in Europe) are very organized for you to penetrate their Chano8. July 2015

According to Coco Finger, when they are booked for the shows abroad, the promoter usually wires a down payment and the balance is paid after the performance. market, you need to put your act together,” he says.

He further explains that getting a crowd of 200-300 is an achievement since it is hard to mobilize even 50 people for some artistes. One lucky thing for Ugandan artistes is that the Ugandans abroad love to party and they rally Africans from other countries to such gigs.

Only the sharp survive.

Singer Coco Finger who has been on more ‘international tours’ since he split from his manager admits that

there is nowhere to hide if one doesn’t put their act together. He still recalls how during a performance in Amsterdam, fans heckled him for performing ‘glorified karaoke’. He has since learnt to market himself better with his audiences and his ‘vibrating dance’ dance is now a favourite with his fans there.

He confesses to Chano8 that there is not much to make on such trips and as such, he treats them as shopping holidays. “The little I get from such shows, I use for shopping and upgrading my wardrobe,” he explains.

107

SPECIAL FEATURE Chano8

Nince Henry talks to a promoter BELOW The Ghetto kids

Nince Henry talks to a promoter

According to Coco Finger, when they are booked for the shows abroad, the promoter usually wires a down payment and the balance is paid after the performance.

The singer has been romantically linked with a sugar mummy, Sagal Mohammed Farah, a mother of three who he met during a performance in Chano8. July 2015

Germany. He admits to that relationship and says that it is for such star-struck fans that Ugandan musicians can maximise on their travels abroad since issues like accommodation, feeding and partying are catered for.

“Man you have to be sharp and do

calculations. If you have a one-month viza, you have to make sure you perform at as many places as you can to make the trip abroad worthwhile. If I can perform at a house party, birthday party, a discotheque and a town hall, it doesn’t matter. I’m there for the money and that is what counts,” he concludes.

108

Chano8 THE LYRICS

Nerea Sauti Sol

Sauti Sol is a Kenyan afro-pop band formed in Nairobi by vocalists Bien-AimĂŠ Baraza, Willis Chimano and Delvin Mudigi in 2005. Initially an a capella group, guitarist Polycarp Otieno joined before they named themselves Sauti.

The multi-award winning band is famous for thier song Shurayako which has taken them places. However thier latest release 'Nerea' is equaliy rocking the airwaves. The song is about the fight against abotion which is illegal in most African countries.

Sauti Sol features Amos and Josh in this new block-buster song

Verse 1(Delvin): Nakuomba Nerea, Usitoe Mimba Yangu We, Mungu Akileta Mtoto, Analeta Saa Ni Yake, Mlete Nitamlea, Usitoe Mimba Yangu We, Mungu Akileta Mtoto, Analeta Saa Ni Yake, (Bien): Huenda Akawa Obama, Atawale Chano8. July 2015

Amerika, Huenda Akawa Lupita, Oscar Nazo Akashinda, (Amos): Huenda Akawa Wanyama, Acheze Soka Uingereza, Huenda Akawa Kenyatta, Mwanzilishi Wa Taifa, Nakuomba Nerea, Usitoe Mimba Yangu We, Mungu Akileta Mtoto, Ana-

109

THE LYRICS Chano8

THE LYRICS leta Saa Ni Yake, Mlete Nitamlea, Usitoe Mimba Yangu We, Mungu Akileta Mtoto, Analeta Saa Ni Yake, (Josh): Huenda Akawa Maathai, Ayalinde Mazingira, Huenda Akawa Makeba, Nyimbo Nzuri Akatunga, (Chimano): Huenda Akawa Nyerere, Aongoze Tanzania, Huenda Akawa Mandela, Mkombozi Wa Taifa, Nakuomba Nerea, Usitoe Mimba Yangu We, Mungu Akileta Mtoto, Analeta Saa Ni Yake, Mlete Nitamlea, Usitoe Mimba Yangu We, Mungu Akileta Mtoto, Analeta Saa Ni Yake,

Nerea, Nerea, Nerea Usitoe Mimba Yangu, Huenda Akawa Kagame(Atawale) Jaramogi Odinga(Tuungane) Huenda Akawa Tom Mboya Huenda Akawa Rudisha, Huenda Akawa Malaika, Mungu Ametupatia, Huenda Akawa Sauti Sol, Huenda Akawa Amos & Josh.....

Huenda Akawa........

Huenda Akawa Malaika, Mungu Ametupatia..

Nakuomba Nerea, Nerea, Nerea, Usitoe Mimba Yangu, Click here to Watch Video

Sauti Sol is an all-boy Kenyan band

Chano8. July 2015

,

110

Chano8 STUDIO CHANO8DIARY MAGAZINE

STUDIO DIARY

EXODUS AND RINGTONE

When Uganda's top Gospel Artiste Exodus broke into the music scene about five years ago, he changed the face of gospel music and revolutioalised it with a string of hit songs. After a short break he is back to rock the airwaves BRIEF ON MUSICAL JOURNEY Total surprise, growing up I never had that dream.....Never even imagined myself singing ever. But joining church straight after street changed everything. And 2008 opened a whole new chapter (musically) that's when I released my first song (Ganja man)

GENRE FOR PARTY LEO

Ugandan gospel music super star Exodus teamed up with Kenya's Rington to produce a serious piece 'Party Leo'

I'm a versatile, diverse artiste' that cannot be confined to one style of music.

Call me an all rounder!

INSPIRATION ‘God has been so good to me. I've achieved quite a lot from music even though people used to think nothing good can ever come out of gospel music.

Basically Party Leo, is a celebration of all the good things God has done. It is a Party Song that calls on us to celebrate here and now!

WHO WROTE IT It was a Collaborative effort from both me and Ringtone from Kenya, who is the other artiste on the track. Actually one of Kenya's finest Gospel Artistes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION It's a song that will catch your attention straight from the start, the beats(very groovy and the message very simple) Chano8. July 2015

We all have e something to be grateful for regardless the challenges we go through every single day.

PRODUCTION It was Produced in Uganda at Neutriq Town Records by D King one of Uganda's finest producers todate who actually happens to be my Personal Producer. Ringtone flew in and the song basically took us about two hours and it was done.

ABOUT THE VIDEO The video was shot and Co directed by one of East Africa's finest, the famous Enos Olik.

LOCATION AND CONSTUME We shot the video in Nairobi, being a very fashionable artiste I visualise according to script and dress myself (I'm that particular and detailed).

FINANCIAL BREAKTHROUGH That's actually what has limited most Gospel Artistes. We look put our music into a Box "Gospel" and expect it to workout by itself, Yet music is like any other business, that has to be promoted aggressively beyond your confinement or borders. As Jesus clearly said "go ye I to the whole world and spread this good news".

When we think and work out of the

111

STUDIO DIARY Chano8

Exodus (L) with Ringtone in Party Leo music video

box, then we shall start to see the blessing as it ought to be, as long as we out God first, He shall direct out paths and destiny. Do quality music, shoot competitive and quality videos and the sky shall be the limit.

Block your ears to negative energy in regard to what you feel is the direction God has called you to and you shall surely see His blessing. He hasn't failed me ever since.

CHALLENGES Most challenging was actually the video shoot! Equipment delayed, and as we started shooting, we were interrupted by rains, at certain points during the shoot, I had to co-direct because I wanted it to be perfect, I had the vision of the outcome. But eventually we got close to what was expected. I'm quite tough when it comes to execution.

MAJOR ATTRIBUTES It being a bit different from what people have known me for, and also collaborating with one of Kenya's finest (Ringtone), a simple message, different beat and working with a new managment team.

Chano8. July 2015

ADVICE TO GOSPEL ARTISTES In 2008 it took me 40 days of prayer and fasting on water to be initiated, you have to be willing to sacrifice 100 percent. Seek him first and all righteousness and he shall direct you exactly where he wants you to go and what he wants to do with you and when you catch it, do it like it's your last day go as far as your heart tell you to regardless of who and what they have to say. Block your ears to negative energy in regard to what you feel is the direction God has called you to and you shall surely see His blessing. He hasn't failed me.

UPCOMING PROJECTS

Until now, I have been releasing a lot of singles. Howwever, after Prophecy, I decided to pull back and work on a full album which is almost done. It's been two years now, so people should expect a better, more sold out Exodus concerts, great Music and amazing videos.

God bless my fans and all who have stood by me supported me over the years, the best is yet to come.

112

Chano8 CAREER CORNER

Batenga Batenga TheMyth is a global DJ who has been in the business since 2011. Her DJ career started when she accidentally stumbled on decks and had to do a 15-minute crash course on site on how to work the decks at an event in Boston in the USA where she played at a dinner event. Her Djaying has taken her across the United States to Europe, Nairobi, Kampala and Johannesburg. Besides being a qualified engineer and IT consultant, she is also into artiste management, farming and many other busness.

Who is Batenga TheMyth? Tell us about growing up, Education, Family and Life.

Batenga TheMyth is an ambitious and driven woman in her early 30s. I love technology, music, movies, travel. I am a serial entrepreneur, I love to stretch my mind and think outside the box. I am patient, meticulous and very detail oriented. I would like to think I am a fun person to be around. But above all I love God. I am an 80s child born in Nairobi, Kenya to Ugandan parents in political exile. Relocated to Uganda in the late 80s.

I come from a family of six children. I grew up with a passion for sports and entertainment. I attended Kampala Parents’ School, Namagunga Primary Boarding School & Mt. St. Mary’s Namagunga. I migrated to the USA as a child where I have lived off and on for 19 years and also where I graduated with a BSc in Computer Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington in 2007.

What inspired you to join DJing and when did this all start? And where do you ply this trade from?

My passion for music led me to Chano8. July 2015

DJing. I collect CDs, Cassettes and a little bit of Vinyl, and I have done so for many years. When I was in secondary school in Uganda, during what we used to call “cow-dances” -- all girl dances in an all-girl school, I used to mix music with cassettes. Looking back it was quite an interesting experience -- no headphones, no cds, no vinyl, just guessing where the song started. Or recording non-stop music on cassettes and playing those during such events.

years, I have had gigs in several states within the US, I have played in Europe, Kenya and Uganda.

Wow you are a female DJ how do you feel about that and how does society perceive your interest/career in DJing?

To be honest I feel indifferent. In the beginning, since seeing a female DJ was very rare, I was ridiculed and sneered at by some (before they heard me spin) things like “is she any good?”

Technically, I could say I started unof- “how can a woman be a DJ?” and all ficially in 1996. But it wasn’t until May sorts of shallow comments. But then 2001, that I got my official start as a DJ at a formal family event in Boston. Continues to Next Page At this time, I had quite a collection of original CDs, about 1000 and counting, I was encourI was encouraged by my late brotherin-law, Dorian Tibekyinga who also aged by my late went by “Dorian TheMyth”, to try out brother-in-law, djaying. We always discussed music, Dorian Tibekyinga who unfortunately he never got the chance to see me do my thing as he passed also went by “Dorian away not long after in a tragic car acTheMyth”, to try out cident.

To honor him, I took up his moniker “TheMyth” and like they say the rest is history. I ply my trade mainly in the US, but 14 years is a long time, I have slowed down tremendously and now will do mostly mixtapes or exclusive private events and once in a while, I might do a club here or there. Over the

djaying. We always discussed music, unfortunately he never got the chance to see me do my thing as he passed away not long after in a tragic car accident.

113

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

HAIR STYLES

IN HER OWN WORDS I love technology, music, movies, travel. I am a serial entrepreneur, I love to stretch my mind and think outside the box. I am patient, meticulous and very detail oriented. I would like to think I am a fun person to be around. But above all I love God.

Chano8. July 2015

114

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

CONTINUED those were the minority; to me I could care less how people perceived me. All that mattered to me was, am I doing my job and am I doing it exceptionally well? Is the dance floor packed? Is the client or the club manager happy? If I could answer in the affirmative to those questions, that’s all that mattered to me. On the flip-side though, I cannot count the number of times guys have made passes at me by virtue of what I do, or the number of free drinks I get offered a night, those are the perks, flattering of course!

As a female DJ and one of the pioneer pro Female DJs, do you face stigma and stereotype sentiments against women in related careers?

Haha I didn’t realize I am considered one of the pioneer pro female DJs, but that’s an honor if I am considered one. Big up to Uganda’s, DJ Rachel, I always looked up to her in my younger days. But back to your question, absolutely, I face stigma and stereotypical sentiments a lot of the time.

I get sneered at, especially by older women, I always find that hilarious, and it gives me a good laugh! I remember one event in particular several years ago, I was the DJ and there was a friend of mine, a guy, standing next to me at the DJ table, whenever people would come to make requests, they would ask him, mistaking him for the DJ, and he would tell them he wasn’t the DJ

Chano8. July 2015

and that I was, some would laugh at themselves and say “my bad” or others would look at me roll their eyes, or look on in amazement and walk away, and I would see them right back at the dancefloor getting down, haha. To me that was always a win!

So how do you overcome such situations?

I handle such situations with grace and humility.

My job as DJ is to keep you on the dancefloor, and certainly gender should be a non-issue to pull that off. Like the example I mentioned before, someone rolls their eyes at me or they are left tongue-tied at the sight of seeing a female at the turntables. If I manage to keep you on the floor, make you break a sweat or make your feet hurt, then I have overcome that particular situation.

What challenges do you face as a female DJ? Discrimination or people not being sure of your abilities just because you are a woman. Sometimes, I find myself being put in a position where I have to try to prove myself. While I notice that my male counterparts, some of whom I am more experienced than they are and even more professional than they are, will have it easier than I would. But I always let my work speak for itself.

I have proven myself and my abilities. I am confident now that my brand precedes me.

Talking about challenges, there has been a lot of debate about quality of music/videos produced in Uganda. How do you rate Uganda’s music industry?

115

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

In 2013, I started working with two exceptionally talented singers and songwriters, Ekky & Richy Kaweesa.

The management is done under a company called KONEKTOR. We are currently in final stages of negotiations with one more musician and that should complete our circle for now.

I choose not to use the word “Industry” to describe Uganda’s music scene. We are still quite far from being determined as a “Music Industry”, instead I prefer to say our music scene is a sector of an industry.

An industry consists of musicians, entities such as music publishers, producers, recording studios, record labels, retail & online stores, performance rights organizations, booking agents, promoters, music venues, road crew, talent managers, artist managers, business managers, entertainment lawyers etc Based on this, to answer your question, it’s very hard to rate where we are, but if I was to rank on a scale of 1 to 10, I would probably say we are at a 3 out of 10 and that is being very generous with my score.

We have a copyright law that is not enforced, we don’t have any viable award ceremonies, pay-for-play is rampant, we don’t quite have a structure per se, instead we do just enough to put food on our tables but nothing much really beyond it. But if I am to talk about our music and videos, the quality of music and music videos has improved immensely over the years, and that is a huge positive. We have artistes who are being recognized in international music awards, that is an endorsement on the work being done by Ugandan musicians.

West African music is dominating airwaves in Africa and local artistes have been at loggerheads with You DJs and presenters accusing you for shunning their music. What is your take?

Chano8. July 2015

My take is very simple on this, give me a good song with a good groove and I will play it. End of story.

I have a series of mixtapes I upload on my soundcloud (www.soundcloud.com/themyth) These mixtapes are called Tropical African Heat & AfroXpression. I do them in volumes. These mixtapes are generally a feeling I try to give my listeners. AfroXpression is usually up-tempo, dominated by Afro House and up-tempo Afro Beats and Tropical African Heat is anything goes, as far as tempo is concerned. The goal of these tapes is to take my listeners on a musical journey around Africa. The music that ends up on these tapes is carefully selected, if it fits the groove and vibe I want to give, then it ends up on there, Ugandan music inclusive. A good song will speak for itself, that’s pretty much there is to it.

We understand besides DJing, you are also into artiste management. Enlighten us more on that.

Yes I am into artiste management. I have been doing that since 2009. In 2013, I started working with two exceptionally talented singers and songwriters, Ekky & Richy Kaweesa. The management is done under a company called KONEKTOR. We are currently in final stages of negotiations with one more musician and that should complete our circle for now. But basically what we do is manage artistes’ careers with the primary goal of making them successful in their music careers.

There is a new controversial issue creeping into the news scene that promoters and artiste managers are exploiting/fleecing artistes of their hard earned money. How true is this?

I can’t speak to something I am not privy to. But if this is indeed true, well then that’s a shame and such would be detrimental to our progress as we try to move to “industry” status.

AS a DJ and artiste manager, what is your take on the controversial copyright law and the continuous delay in enacting it?

I’ve got to admit I am not in the least bit amused

Continues to Next Page

116

Chano8CHANO8 Chano8 CAREER CORNER MAGAZINE

Batenga with new kid on the block Richy

about the delay to enact this law.

Creative minds spend a lot of time and resources to get their music or art out there for the general public to consume, only for someone to make money off their work and the creatives don’t see a penny of it.

The way our music environment is set up, it is not sustainable especially for the musicians. If this law is enacted, and processes are put in place, then I believe we shall see all around improvement and the end-to-end process of the creative chain. Copyright Laws have helped industries in Kenya, South Africa and Nigeria, I don’t see why we cannot follow suit.

Where do you see the music industry in Uganda in the next 5-10 years?

I am optimistic that we shall be competing favorably continenChano8. July 2015

make sure I follow. Otherwise, without organization and planning things end Besides the above what else do you do up falling off on the way-side. Also, that can inpire our readers? tally.

Besides the above, I am in IT, courtesy of the degree I earned. I am into web development and data analysis. I also do agriculture, I have been doing that for about three years. I am currently setting up a commercial farm. Currently, I am working on an IT-driven innovative idea for the agricultural sector that together, with my partners, we hope to roll out soon. We run a company called Dataware Integrated Solutions (www.dataware.ug) How do you manage to juggle all the above (career aspirations) with family and other private responsibilities and interests?

It is not easy to juggle my career aspirations with my other personal obligations, however, I am naturally organized and I keep a daily task list that I

Besides the above, I am in IT, courtesy of the degree I earned. I am into web development and data analysis. I also do agriculture, I have been doing that for about three years. I am currently setting up a commercial farm. Currently, I am working on an IT-driven innovative idea for the agricultural sector that together, with my partners, we hope to roll out soon.

117

CAREER CORNER Chano8

Batenga TheMith with singer Ekky

it is key for me to manage my time well. And amidst all this I make sure I schedule holiday breaks, no matter how far in advance those breaks are, I try to get away from my busy environment and go to another environment and unwind and recharge my mind and body. I love to travel so that’s my excuse :) What is your philosophy of life and what drives/inspires you?

My philosophy of life is to always be honest with yourself in order to serve others well.

What inspires me? Well, I am resultdriven; I set goals, and not only meet them but surpass them always aiming for good results. I always find it captivating to see someone make the best of a situation no matter how dire it may be. And like they say “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade” now that inspires me!

Chano8. July 2015

Your parting remarks, words of encouragement & appreciation to fans and Chano8 readers.

My parting words of encouragement are very simple; no matter how long something takes to materialize, don’t lose focus nor lose hope. Keep your eye on the prize, always, and strive to reach those goals, and not only reach them, but surpass them. Secondly, it’s ok to dream, but keep those dreams realistic; start small and think big.

For everyone who has supported me from day one, and the new fans, I appreciate you, aluta continua!

Find Batenga:Twitter: @bthemyth

119 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

THEY MAKE US LAUGH

GRAFFITTI

Chano8. July 2015

120

Chano8

GADGETS AND STYLE

Favourite Gadgets

' Bryan Kella McKenzie is a top Radio presenter TV personality and Public Relations Officer. He talked to Chano8 about his Gadgets and style'

McKENZIE Chano8. July 2015

121

GADGETS AND STYLE Chano8

Instruments

I have always wanted to play the guitar! I remember asking my mom to buy me one when I was 11 but she couldn’t afford it at the time so I cried myself to sleep. I still want to get time and learn how to play one.

Phones used Am currently using the Samsung Galaxy S4. I have not been able to change phones as much as I would have loved but twice every year I should have upgraded.

Dream Car Samsung, HTC or Apple?

I honestly don’t think I belong to any particularly, am a social media freak and all the above have unique features and the apps work differently for the stuff I do, so I don’t have a particular brand I feel attached to, though for purposes of affordability and easy access, I have used the Samsung a lot more.

My dream car has to be the 2015 Dodge Challenger, am a big fun of speed but I hate the cute look on the Lambo or Ferrari. They seem too cute to me. So after setting my eyes on this Dodge, it blew mind. It screams Mckenzie!!

Vintage Cars?

If I could own a vintage car it would be the 1964'68 Ford Mustang. I have been privileged to sit in one although I wasn’t allowed to drive it. I was about 17 years old and I was working for the guy who owned it, he told me a lot about it’s history and I just fell in love with it. You don’t have to sell a Mustang, it sells itself.

Old School Gadget?

The Discman is always going to be reliable; I love hard copies of albums so it’s really important for me to keep that Sony Discman

Top 5 Cars • • • • •

Rolls-Royce Phantom Pagani Zonda Aston Martin DB5 Bugatti Veyron Dodge Challenger

Can’t Live House Without

I never leave the house without my phone. I have never forgotten my phone home. It’s my closest friend hehe.

Chano8. July 2015

122

Chano8 GADGETS AND STYLE

Chano8. July 2015

123

GADGETS AND STYLE Chano8

Chano8. July 2015

124

IN HIS OWN WORDS Mckenzie is a father, Believer, Radio Presenter and a Public Relations Officer.

Born in Mbarara, raised in Nyamitanga and currently living and hustling in the city. I love thoughtful conversations and yes I support Manchester United.

124

Chano8. July 2015

125

Chano8

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Note 4 or I Phone 6?

When it comes to phones at that high level, it has to be about innovation for me.

I find the Note 4 a better option when it comes to innovation, the Iphone6 plus has a cute look and is apparently easier to use with a good camera but the Note 4 has almost the same quality with a longer life battery plus being in Uganda, you do need a removable back to have easy access to service. So I prefer the Note 4.

PS or Phone Games?

Formula one, Fifa and NBA

Top Apps Instagram/Twitter/Facebook/Gmail Skype.

Accessories & Gadgets To be honest, I don’t have music accessories thanks to my job, so besides my sony car radio and the home theater in the living room, my phone sorts me out. When it comes to gadgets, I got rid of many of them when I became a father …but I have the normal, Wi-Fi router, power bank, under water phone case and a Bluetooth speaker.

Brand or performace?

When it comes to shoes, the Timberlands are and will always be my favorite pair of shoes.

Sometimes people think I have one pair of shoe because I have similar pairs on my shoe rack. I find them comfortable, strong and being Mckenzie… I relate a lot with them fashion wise.

Future Plans Hanging out I don’t have a favorite hang out in Uganda, I have partied way too much to be particular but the village mall kids play center gives me joy seeing my son happy for 5hours straight. That’s fun.

Chano8. July 2015

Am celebrating 10yrs in the radio industry this year so am about letting people know who I really am. I have a music album (Rudebouymusic) coming up that features the best Ugandan urban artists. In 2016 I look forward to getting back on Television, I might get back before then but 2016 is TV year for me.

126

Chano8 BEHIND THE MUSIC

SWANGZ AVENUE'S

BENON

"SINGER, SONGWRITER AND PRODUCER" For those that did not know who Benon Mugumbya is then you either live under a rock or just hate Ugandan music. He is the producers behind monster hits from artistes like Irene Ntale, Juliana, Desire, Radio and Weasel, Navio, Bebe Cool, Maro, Vampino and many more. Before then you must remember him from the his duo as ‘Benon and Vamposs’.

T

he 34 year old singer / music producer is one of the pioneers and backbone of the now famed Swangz avenue, a recording studio and music label. He mentors a number of artists and has been the brain behind a lot of great hits under Swangz Avenue.

Chano8 caught up with him at Swangs Avenue where we got a sneak peek into what makes him tick.

Who did you grow up listening to as a child?

Locally, I was a huge fun of the dungeon era, artists like Peter Sematimba, Steve Jean, Simon Bass Kalema, Perfect Generation, Shanks ViviD. I love their music it was my first Ugandan Music. Internationally I am an old skool kind of person, I love everything from RKelly, Black Street, 2 Pac, Chano8. July 2015

Boy 2 Men, Bobby Brown, Keith Sweat,Dru Hill and many more

Why did you quit the duo Benon and Vamposs?

Hehe, who said I quit! Anyway, I guess I got comfortable producing which took a lot of my time away from the performances and singing as a whole. It became a challenge trying to do both. I can’t say I quit working with Vamposs, we still work together and were great friends even before ‘Benon and Vamposs’ . Besides I work on some of his music too.

What challenges did you face as an artist?

As an artist the biggest challenge is putting a price tag to what we do. For most people and listeners

it is just entertainment, it should free, but when you come down to it making music is hard and expensive especially these days. By the time a song reaches the masses the artist has spent so much.

As an artist the biggest challenge is putting a price tag to what we do. For most people and listeners it is just entertainment, it should be free, but when you come down to it making music is hard and expensive especially these days.

127

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

STAR PROFILE

Keko was one of the first people Just Jose managed before the rapper signed for Sony Record

Benon Mugumbya Chano8. July 2015

128

Chano8 BEHIND THE MUSIC

Also promotion is a major challenge.

What is your experience like being behind the music scene rather than on stage?

I don’t see myself as behind the scene just different seats. I enjoy producing music. It gives me a greater appreciation of what I do and of music at large. It is a great feeling to be a part of the making of a great hit.

Where and when did you get into music producing?

In 2003 When I was starting out into music with Vamposs it was always a breath taking experience walking into a studio and watching the preparations for the sessions.

I love gadgets and technology so I was very interested in the entire process.

I started making my beats and givChano8. July 2015

ing them to people in the studio to listen. It was around that time that I met Eddie Mpagi from Ngoni who was at Gudenuf Production took me under his wing, he offered to teach me and the rest was history.

What does it take to make a hit song?

To tell you the truth, there is no formula for a hit. I can’t tell you this is a good song, but not every good song is going to be a hit and a hit is not always a good song either. A hit these days should be simple, catchy and catchy. Sometimes a song is a hit because of the frequency at which it is played.

What is your view of the current Ugandan music scene?

So far it looks good but when you dig deeper you find there are some areas that are still lacking. You find artists invest more than what they get out of a song. An artist will want to work with the best

producer, shoot the best video and sometimes be dressed expensively but they don’t make as much back.

From a business aspect I think only a few are making money the others are just investing it.

Am happy with the unity that is being shown by Ugandans towards their own talent. Now we celebrate and support new artistes and different sounds it is very impressive.

Who are your top five artists to work with?

That is a hard question. I listen to a lot of music and have worked with many artistes that I respect. Maybe I could tell you who are currently listening too, and that would be Maurice Kirya, Sam Kimera, he is really good. There is Juliana, Maddox and Afrigo Band. However, I have worked with a lot of artists whom I love but aren’t on my personal playlist.

Which are your favouite

129

BEHIND THE MUSIC Chano8

Just Jose receives an award

I listen to a lot of music and have worked with many artists that I respect. Maybe I could tell you who are currently listening too, and that would be Maurice Kirya, Sam Kimera, he is really good.

There is Juliana, Maddox, Afrigo Band. However, I have worked with a lot of artistes whom I love but aren’t on my personal playlist. songs of 2015?

Hehe these are really hard ones, but I would say ‘Neera’ by Radio and weasel . I guess it was last year but still is my current favourite. Lets wait and see.

Which East African artists would you like to work with?

As you grow as a producer you keep up with what is trending, playing in the clubs and its always changing.

Unfortunately, I don’t go out much so when an artist comes to me with Chano8. July 2015

a project and we click its good am currently still in the zone of ‘Simple girl’ by Lilian. I really don’t have a list of people but am open to different artists with different ideas.

What inspires you when it comes to music.

Am inspired by life generally. The good times and the bad times the ups and downs it all comes round to push and encourage us to move on, write and produce music. Am moved by life basically.

So far how would you rate Swangz Avenue’s growth since you joined?

We have most definitely had a lot of progress in many aspects such as location, we have signed a lot of artists and are able to fund our artistes, we have a number of recording rooms. Am just really grateful that we have managed to fulfill the goals we set out to do. We envisioned running Swangz as a record label and now we are on the right track. Am so proud of it.

130

Chano8

RISING STAR

Rising Star

NUTTY NEITHAN Chano8 this month caught up with the new ragga sensation in town Nutty Neithan, who is best known for his killer hit ‘Bakuwe kyonywa’ and ‘Follow my rules’ with Mun’G. he hasn’t been in the industry for long but he has 6 popular songs and 4 collaborations not to mention is also one of the most popular artistes among the teenage listeners .

Chano8: Tell us about Nutty Neithan’s childhood and background?

Chano8: So you write,sing and produce, how did

Nutty Neithan is a singer, song writer, producer and performer. My real names are Wamahongo Nathan from Mbale born on 5th May at Mulago. I come from a relatively big family, 4 brothers and 2 sisters.

I learnt music production in 2013 while I was in studio recording a song called ‘Stammer’ with Nessim at BADI records. He showed me a lot of stuff. I used to like FL studio with is a program artistes use to record songs, but later I was introduced to LOGIC which was much better. Since then I have been involved with the production process of most of my songs along side other amazing producers like Emon and Boris.

I went to Nakasero primary, then Northroad Primary in Mbale, Kira Collage Butiki, Lubiri S.S.S then Nkumba university to study I.T but I dropped out due to financial factors.

Chano8: How did you get into music?

Music was a part of my life from an early stage, from as far back as 1998 I guess, but dance was my first love. Music was always in the background.

I loved to dance and all through school that was all I did. It was not until later on at university that I decided to try my hand at music and started writing songs.

In 2012 I finally got the courage to go to a studio and record my first song. Mainly I was a dancer before, I can dance B boy, contemporary , Salsa and many others hopefully in my new video for ‘Body to body ‘ my fans will see my dance skills.

Chano8: Tell us about your journey to your

you get into production?

Chano8: Do you still do choreography?

Yes I do, a lot actually. I have a brother who is still a dancer. I have worked with agroup called Nutty nusery where I do choreography and another group called ‘Kapeke’. I should get you some footage (laughs). Plus that of my own stage performances.

Chano8:Tell us about your latest song ‘Body to

body’?

I wrote it, produced it with the help of Boris and Ammon, well its about a guy who is finding ways to be with someone they love. I first made that beat before writing the song. I remember that it was raining when I voiced it, ideas kept coming to me. The audio is already out and on radio, we are working on the video hopefully will be out next month.

first song?

Chano8: Why the blue hair we must ask?

In 2012, I finally got the courage to sing. However, I was the only one who thought I could sing and I was surrounded by a lot of negativity. I had no money to record but I was determined to do it. I wrote about 38 songs such as "Bayaya", "Bounce it", "Good feeling" and "Ondaba". Out of these, the songs that stood out were ‘Good feeling’ and "Bounce it". I got a lot of help from Eddie of Gud enuf studios where I recorded the song. I did a remix with Carol and before I knew it, it was on Radio Galaxy FM. This encouraged me to record my other songs.

Blue is the colour of the sky and my favourite. I want to potray an image of a comforter. I see the sky as a starting aspiration but definitely not the limit. But don’t worry I wont grow it out into blue dread locks.

Chano8. July 2015

Chano8: What inspires your music and why ragga as a genre?

Well am a shy person, and coming from a huge family

CONTINUES

131

CHANO8 MAGAZINE

Nutty Neithan Chano8. July 2015

t

132

Chano8

RISING STAR

K!MERA Chano8. July 2015

133

RISING STAR Chano8

Rising Star NEITHAN had its challenges and it was there that I realized that music was my way of communicating and relating so am inspired by life around me and my own life.

I would love to work with so many artists like Daimond of Tanzania, Wahu of Kenya, Saouti Sol, Madtraxx, P unit and Cynthia of German juice that would be nice.

I can do all styles of music, but you will find that ragga and reggae is a lot harder than the rest. So I chose it as a challenge because I believe if you can do ragga/reggae then you can easily do the rest.

My goal is to represent Uganda to the fullest, the world has started to acknowledge our music, I want to represent our style.

Chano8: What challenges did you encounter

Chano8: Any advice for upcoming artistes?

starting out?

The main challenge is knowing what your listeners want, but the way I see it is that every time a song doesn’t make it, I am encouraged to work harder. It took a while for people to understand who I was and what my music was about. The other challenge is our industry has a bit of politics where some artistes enjoy more benefits than others

Chano8: Which of your songs is your absolute favourite?

That is a tough one. Well..... I cannot decide on a favourite as I have I love equally, the first is ‘Body to Body’ I am crazy about it but thats probably because its my most recent. The 2nd will have to be ‘Bakuwe Kyonywa’ it’s a song that makes me want a drink too (laughs).

Chano8: Tell us about your Idroid deal?

Unfortunately I can’t speak about that until it is finalized, but am excited about it. Ask me when its done.

Chano8: Have you written and produced for other artists?

Yes I have, quite a number. Some artist wouldn’t be happy with me saying their names but I can say I have worked on the Empress’ new album and another artist by the name of Ronnie Stamina.

Chano8: What are the future plans and musical dreams?

Am working a lot, have new music. I have a collabo with Kevin of Voicemail, we are shooting the video soon, I have something on the way with Radio and Weasel, Chameleone and Konshens. 2015 is going to be exciting for my fans.

Chano8. July 2015

They need to persist in their dreams. They need to do good work and perfect their craft. Bad music can’t go far. A good personality also makes good music.

So they should strive for the best always.

134

Chano8 RELATIONSHIPS

Her View

Relationship

My husband of six years and I divorced at the beginning of this year and things haven’t been the same.

While it was his continual infidelity that turned me off, I find myself missing the old times. He has apologized and calls me every so often asking that we make up and go back to the way things used to be. Our two sons miss their father and although he wasn’t faithful, he was a good provider and we never lacked anything. I do not know what to do.

Lucy man?

Gloria Batuta Hey Lucy, Am sorry your marriage came to an end and I totally sympathise with your situation especially with 2 boys that need a father figure in their lives. It must be pretty lonely being on your own for the first time in over six years. You must be missing the company of your ex-husband which is normal.

You need to take a hard look at things, why did you divorce him? How long did it take you to divorce him, did you think it through when you left him? When he says he wants to go back to how things were, what does he mean?Go back to his cheating ways? Are you ready to handle the same reasons you left?

What did you tell your boys after the divorce, and how will you tell them you changed your mind?

Will you never regret going back to the same pattern of behavior? Has he changed or is he just lonely too? The list goes on and on.

Am a firm believer in second chances, but only when the second time won’t be an exact replica of the first time! Forgiveness is easy to ask for and repentance is way more complicated because it requires one to live a different lifestyle and everyday should be a testimony to the change you promise your partner. So forget that he asked for forgiveness, Is he living the life of a changed Chano8. July 2015

When we fall in love, sometimes we only see what we want to see hence the saying "love is blind’ it is possible you married a ‘dog’ but didn’t see it until the veil was taken off your eyes, if that is the case then please stop looking back and move on and find new love.

Other marriages are started off in bliss and after the first 2 years when the honeymoon phase is done, the couple falls into a rut,where they stop trying and working on their marriage and mostly men look for excitement outside their marriages until they are faced with the threat of divorce.

It’s only then that they wake up to realize what they just destroyed and are bound to lose,if that is the case then I believe it is possible to fix it.

If you're just lonely, that is no reason to go back to an emotionally abusive spouse and risk your happiness, not to mention diseases just because you need someone to lay beside you at night. It is very possible for you to find love again. Many before you have and some with 3 to 4 children.

Your children can not be happy with an unhappy mother. Think of what your son’s learn from your situation, do they learn to respect women, or walk over them? Do they see a strong mother or not? Don’t make the mistake of saying you're going back for the kids, am sure the kids would prefer to have both parents alive and happy than a mother sick and miserable because she had to go back to a destructive relationship. Divorce here takes roughly 18 months to legalize so be careful and be sure you’re going back to him for the right reasons and are willing to work hard at it.

Good luck ,hope you make the right decision.

Dilema

RELATIONSHIPS Chano8

His Take

H

i Lucy, well am sorry that your marriage had to end the way it did. Somebody once said that divorce is so traumatizing- it is almost like death. But your situation is tricky and I do not feel like I should be the one to decide on your course of action. The decision has to be yours. What I can do is paint a lucid picture for your regarding the ways this will play out depending on what you choose to do.

Firstly as a married man, I got to tell you. I do not believe in divorce unless it becomes life threatening with a spouse. But granted there are situations where separation is inevitable. Yours is one of these situations.

Trust is the glue that holds a marriage together and without trust it’s hard for two people to walk towards destiny together. Your husband’s infidelity was a big problem but you haven’t mentioned if the two of your tried to work this out as much as you could before you parted.

A cheating husband exposes you to a number of risks the first being health issues as well as also psychological and mental risks.. The anguish and betrayal experienced through infidelity by a cheating spouse can have a significant effect on daily life and how you execute your daily routine.

As you ponder on whether to get back with this man, you need to weigh your options. Firstly, there is a possibility that he has learned from this intermittent separation and will stop his cheating ways. He could have realised how much you and the kids mean to him so he is turning over a new leaf. This is a good thing and it would be great to have your family reunited for your sake and the kids.

On the other hand, your ex husband, may simply be feeling sorry for his loss and wants you guys to play house again yet he has no intention of changing his ways. You need to exercise caution because this a possibility. If you get back with him, then you are simply walking back to the dark place you were before. Granted he may not cheat on your initially, but he is likely going to slip back into his old habits if he did not get any sort of help regarding this cheating pattern.

Whatever you do, before you decide to get back with this man, going for counseling and seeing a qualified person who will help you iron out all these issues would be ideal. You need to speak with him candidly during these sessions about how you feel about what he did until he gets it and you get some form of closure.

Your ex husband also needs to demonstrate to you that he has changed his way. He needs to enroll in some sort of sex addiction program with an older gentleman who can guide him and help him realize the consequences of his sexual habits.

There is the other option which I must say is not any eas-

Mark Kawalya Whatever you do, before you decide to get back with this man, going for counseling and seeing a qualified person who will help you iron out all these issues would be ideal. You need to speak with him candidly during these sessions about how you feel about what he did until he gets it and you get some form of closure. ier but has less possibility of getting hurt again by your ex husband.

You simply refrain from this proclamations for apology by him and move on with you life. Of course you cannot keep the kids away from him so that they have some form of interaction with their father. You can allow this as you move on with your life. This won’t be any easier like I said since that means you may have to date again or end the entire dating chapter and remain single for the rest of your life.

So you see my friend, neither one of these options is easy but you must make one of them. Do not feel sorry for yourself because ultimately life goes on and these are some of the circumstances that make life what it is. Find joy in your two kids and make lemonade from these lemons. Life goes on and you can do it.

Wish you the best.

May 2014

135

Chano8

HEALTH AND FITNESS

COFFE BREAK

Yoga MARK KAWALYA YOGA is a physical, mental, and spiritual practice or discipline which originated in India. It is fast spreading across the globe as people adopt new lifestles

Y

oga is one of those arts that we as Ugandans haven’t paid too much attention to.

Some people believe it has twisted spiritual connotations while others feel that it falls below par in the category of beneficial exercise.

But far from it, Yoga has an incredible impact on total wellbeing and scores aptly in the area of worthy workouts. Lets do a little background on this ancient art before we delve into that.

Yoga has its’ history routed in the tradition-rich country of India having its genesis as far back as 5000 years ago. Although previously estimated to have started around 500BC, other contemporaries like Gautama the budda, archaeologists discovered otherwise in the early 1920s.

n Improves your flexibility Yoga greatly enhances your flexibility ratio. You are able to bend your body in ways that normal folk will find daunting. You will not be able to do this in your first lesson but if you keep at it, you will experience a gradual loosening to pull off seemingly impossible posses.

You will also notice that aches and pains that you experienced before start to disappear. Flexibility will also greatly improve on your posture and general stamina. n Builds muscle strength A good way to boost muscle strength is by embarking on yoga practice. Strong muscles do more than keeping us looking good.

They keep conditions like arthritis and back pain at bay. Do not be surprised to find that your balance has greatly improved as well. A dif-

HEALTH AND FITNESS Chano8

....the benefits you have been missing out on.

n Drains your lymphs and boosts immunity When you contract and stretch your muscles while you move around as you do Yoga poses, this increases the drainage the lymph. Lymph which is a fluid that is rich in immune cells enables your lymphatic system to fight infection and destroy cancerous cells thereby boosting immunity n Ups your heart rate

ference between yoga and lifting weights for muscle strength is that using weights might build strength but at the expense of flexibility. n Increases your blood flow Many people suffer various ailments because they lead a sedentary lifestyle. Yoga enables you break away from this cycle by getting your blood flowing. The relaxation exercises you learn in yoga help a lot in circulation. Yoga also gets more oxygen into your cells which improves your cellular functions.

It is also said that twisting your body through Yoga wrings out venous blood from internal organs making way for fresh oxygenated into those organs. Another benefit of Yoga is that is thins the blood thereby making platelets less sticky and reducing the clot promoting protein the body.

n Getting into a state of rest The mind consumes the most energy amongst the body organs.

According to Dr Peter Ntege of AAR clinic, yoga is the only activity that relaxes the mind more than sleeping. That alone is good for your body. He adds that it's like a computer going into energy saving mode by turning off the screen.

Another related benefit that Dr Ntege cites is that things we do in our normal schedules fatigue our body both voluntarily and involuntarily. Your neck, the shoulders, the back, the waist are some of the body parts that have muscles that we tire throughout the day but never consciously since the strain is mostly isometric. The stretching routines relax these muscles by taking them through movements they need.

By regularly getting your heart beating fast through Yoga, you lower your risk of heart attack and reduce your chances of getting depression.

However not all Yoga is aerobic, but if you do it vigorously you can boost your heart rate into the aerobic range. Granted, even yoga exercises that don’t get your heart beating fast can improve cardiovascular condition.

But even yoga exercises that don’t get your heart rate up that high can improve cardiovascular conditioning. Studies have found that yoga practice lowers the resting heart rate, increases endurance, and can improve your maximum uptake of oxygen during exercise—all reflections of improved aerobic conditioning.

One study found that subjects who were taught only pranayama could do more exercise with less oxygen.

138

Chano8 BEST OF THE MONTH

THE BEST Hottest Songs &

Artistes

#1 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 song 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 are playing every where.

#2 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 and it is now winning international awards.

To comment on stories and countdowns please visit our facebook page chano8 or send an email to info@chano8.com

Chano8. July 2015

BEST OF THE MONTH Chano8

OF JUNE

139

We present the hottest songs and artists that dominated air waves

#3 Juice RADIO AND WEASEL If rumours that the dynamic duo have split eventually turn out to be true, fans are surely going to miss alot for how are we going to have this perfect match rebuild with a different combination.

Anyway the duo's latest album is something worth listening to for it has this cathcy tune Juice which is on fire now.

#4 Olle Fille Mutonyi When the singer released the first video of this song, she felt the need to remake it because was below the standards she had set. With SMS One helping to fund the re-shoot of the new Olle video, Fille did receive massive praise for her tenacity and passion for her career because she barely took time off after she gave birth but instead came back with more hunger to disapprove her critics.

To comment on stories and countdowns please visit our facebook page chano8 or send an email to info@chano8.com

Chano8. July 2015

140

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 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 and is still going strong.

# 7 Trouble Maker EKKY AND A PASS This song has received massive airplay because it showed an interesting unique love story which Ugandans quickly embraced. Ekky and A Pass did blend their skillsperfectly well and had lots of natural connection with the chemistry evident in the music video. The song is also now receing airplay across boarders.

To comment on stories and countdowns please visit our facebook page chano8 or send an email to info@chano8.com Chano8. July 2015

141

BEST OF THE MONTH Chano8

We present the hottest songs and artists that dominated Ugandan air waves in the month

#8 Simple Girl LILIAN MBABAZI It’s on very few occasions that you watch a Ugandan Music video and you get all emotional. Lillian Mbabazi’s simple girl video is so captivating that it draws all the emotions and empathy for the suffering girl child especially because of the way the message is portrayed in the picture.

#9 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.

#10 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 and has become some sort of anthem

To comment on stories and countdowns please visit our facebook page chano8 or send an email to info@chano8.com Chano8. July 2015

142

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

The magnificent Maroon5

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. July 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

143

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. July 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

144

Chano8 MUSIC VIDEO

TROUBLE MAKER Ekky And A Pass

M

usic lovers embrace your selves for hair raising excitement as there is a new combination of rowdy trouble makers on the loose. Smooth flowing Afro-House and Afro- fusion singer EKKY and rugged multi talented new kid on the block A Pass da teacher have teamed up to cause doubletrouble for their fans.

The two talented singers have finally nailed a naturally enthralling and captivating collaboration that oozes free flowing chemistry and attachment between the two quality parties. One may think they are Siamese twins born from the same womb.

Ekky who is working on her debute album “The African Love Story,” trades her craft mostly as an Afro house and Afro-soul fusion artiste but moved out of her comfort zone this time round to do a dance-hall tune and she did not disappoint. Her partner in crime A Pass (real names Alexander Bagonza), a richly, obscenely talented young artiste however is no stranger to such situations as he can comfortably adapt to any genre.

This particular project done at Badis music by Nessim under Ekky’s management team called Konektor is an Afro dance-hall rhyme and A Pass who recently told Chano8 in an exclusive interview that he usually does free-style while making his music, employs a plucky sense of humour in his lyrics that makes the whole song sound conversational and the video intimate. He throws his verses with maximum ease.

And talking about videos, this home combination of gifted Ugandan directors Sasha Vybz (Savy Films) and Joshua Mwesigwa (Raising The Bar Production) is something we can all be proud of especially when the debate on quality (or luck of it) of Ugandan music visa vie Nigerian dominance is still raging on.

And the debate seems to have a positive impact as artistes, producers and video directors have all upped their game when it comes to quality and Trouble Maker is the closest manifestation. With many artistes going to Kenya, South Africa and West Africa for quality video production that can compete on the international scene, Trouble maker is a welcome breath of fresh air as it can comfortably raffle feathers at the top level anywhere in the world.

The directors have carefully chosen an old school setting (With the costumes that include chequered trousers with suspenders, ladies spotting massive Afros, little dresses and hot pants) for this modern tune and blended the bright colours perfectly against the luminous back lighting and a blend of grey shades.

Although the video ends with A Pass at his usual mischief best, the storyline is simple Old school club or disco setting. The simplicity is on point for we know less is more.

Chano8. July 2015

Music Video

MUSIC VIDEO Chano8

Ekky and A Pass have a natural connection in Trouble maker

Although the video ends with A Pass at his usual mischief best, the story-line is simple Old school club or disco setting. The simplicity is on point for we know less is more.

145

The pair did a good job while making lots of trouble

Chano8. July 2015

146

Chano8 MOVIE REVIEW

Enjoy Cinema Life

Movie Review

San Andreas was officially premiered early this month and got many people talking .This amazing new release is one movie that will get you hooked from the start till the end. Yes, it’s that amazing.

Now In Cinemas

S

SAN ANDREAS

an Andreas is one movie that will get you hooked from the start till the end. Yes, it’s that amazing. Starring Dwayne Johnson (The Rock) who is the LAFD search-and-rescue helicopter pilot that takes it on upon himself to always save people no matter how bad their situation is.

However, his resolve was tested when California's notorious San Andreas fault triggers a devastating, magnitude 9 earthquake, the largest recorded in history. His mindset was completely changed as the only thing he thought about was rescuing his family. His heroics see him reconnect with estranged wife who had initially run away to stay with a billionaire.

When the earthquake hit, it left all buildings in the state crumbling down and it could be felt all the way up to the East coast. Try to envision this, the earthquake that recently hit Nepals was magnitude 7.8 and it left disaster in its wake, now try to add a 2.0 magnitude to it. Apocalypse many would say.

Having saved his wife first, the Rock had to move to the highest point of the state in order to find his daughter who was being accompanied by a British young man who had completely been stunned by her beauty and his young brother.

They had managed to escape the earthquake with a few injuries, but things turned for the worse when a tsunami hit. The Rock simply couldn’t bear the thought of losing yet another daughter, so he did everything he possibly could to revive her drowned body and like most movies would have it, he did manage to pull it off.

Chano8. July 2015

147

SONG REVIEW Chano8

Song Review

KABUGO IRENE NTALE

Irene Ntale looks stunning in the Kabugo video

Irene Ntale is a Ugandan Singer,Songwriter and performer signed to Swangz Avenue Record label. She mostly does RnB and Afro-Pop music and recently released a love song ‘kabugo’ dedicated to her dream man. With her album launch date fast approaching, she also shot a beautiful video for the song to share the message with her fans.

W

h e n Irene Ntale b ro ke i n to t h e m u sic scene a few years back, many Ugandans embraced her and appreciated her style of music. The hype was heightened when she unleashed the chart topping block-buster hit ‘Gyobera’. Many Ugandans declared her the next big thing and they were probably right as Irene continued to grow and mature consistently.

Her maturity as an artiste and person has since seen her climb the musical ladder releasing hit after hit including collabos with top artistes like Mentor Bebe Cool, Jose Chameleone, Radio and Weasel among others. She has also won several local awards in the process and even set 28th of August as the date for her maiden concert.

Chano8. July 2015

However, it is in this song ‘Kabugo’ that, this maturity is manifested the most with the husky-voiced singer sounding so composed and reassured in her expression of love for the dream man. She is so natural that you can almost feel as if she is singing to you the listener as she carefully selects the words to describe her feelings.

Recorded under the able craftsmanship of Swangz Avenue and gate records, the song originally comes as an RnB although the heavy baseline makes it pass for a Zouk song or even an Afro-pop. Any way most Ugandan songs are that confusing when it comes to categorising and deciding genres under which they fall.

I am a big fan of heavy baseline and acoustic guitar sounds because they usually enhance the feel of naturalness

and live band in the piece as opposed to the technologically enhanced modern keyboard sounds characterised by auto tunes that kill the flow and unique attributes of the singer.

Kabugo’s simple flow and rhythm gets one so engaged and absorbed that you tend to get lost into the atmosphere of the song trying to imagine things and then you are usually rudely awakened to reality when it comes to an abrupt end which seems to last only a few seconds.

That’s the magic in Kabugo which makes it a must on any play-list for relaxing and expressing love.

148

Chano8 GO MAMA

Music Scene

Album Review

GO MAMA

Bebe Cool's latest Go Mama Album has been the talk of town after its official release in early June. What exactly has Bebe Cool done differently this time to warrant all the praises and acclaim he has received so far? Chano8 takes you through the album to break down a few key talking points.

Bebe Cool and singer Juliana Kanyomozi admire the CD

F

or a long time Uganda’s so called music industry has cried for something that can turn things around, some sort of headspinner. Finally the jigsaw seems to be solved, with an internationally recognised album which veteran singer Bebe Cool has recently released. The Go Mama album is indeed a game changer because of reasons I will mention later The Gagamel boss who confessed to having been singing for a long time without releasing a concrete album, said it was high time he did.

And oh boy, did he really come out

Chano8. July 2015

strong!! Clearly, music in Uganda has evolved and musicians in Africa and all over the world are taking it a notch higher.

Matters have also been tightened because of the one big global audience enhanced by the digital and internet world where competition is getting tighter as artistes fight in the same space for recognition with everybody else globally.

West Africans in general and particularly the Nigerians have been packaging their music in a style that has been aggressively marketed almost all over the globe. However, quality

is the key to Ugandan music reaching the "musical promised land".

Bebe Cool has worked for over 3 years on this 14-track album and the one feature that stood out was the quality that flows throughout the whole album. Like he said himself, a professional artiste has to have a complete album that’s recognized worldwide. That album has to be on several music platforms like iTunes and Amazon among others. Therefore he had to go through the rigorous and expensive process of producing a quality album that can be

GO MAMA Chano8

The Band still has that vibrant unique style they developed, with members having the freedom to work on individual projects like albums as well as concerts. They perform at various hotels, theatres and events and usually hang out at their Calender house home in Makindye.

149

internationally recognised.

with the icing being the mixing and mastering done Oscar Lo Brutto from UK which made the difference.

The Go Mama Album listener’s party he organised recently was to explain to his fans, press and stakeholders why he did each song the way he did on the album so that people don’t misunderstand the mix in the compilation because it has so many different styles.

Each song on the album is different from the other and he made sure that almost all genres are represented. “I went through the album carefully with my team to make sure that we have taken care of every individual by color, race and age. The genres range from Reggae to Rock.” Bebe Cool told Chano8 At the listener’s party where he gave a chance to the audience to ask questions and comment on the songs, majority of the crowd appreciated the song ‘Freedom’ which is a rock song Chano8. July 2015

With the likes of Swangz Avenues Benon Mugumbya, Michael Fingaz, St Andrews, and Singer A-Pass penning some of the top hits producers like, Benon Mugumbya, Michael Fingaz, youngstar Nessim (Badi Music) and Daniel Levi Lwanga contributed massively.

The title track written by Benon is on point and Bebe dedicates it to all women and the plight of the African child especially the so called ‘Street kids.’ completely a w a y from his Raggae, Ragga and dance-hall comfort zone.

The key element I earlier hinted contributed to the overall product quality is professionalism. Bebe Cool carefully selected a team of highly talented and experienced producers, songwriters, instrumentalists and support cast to work on the album

‘Freedom’, ‘African gal’ and ‘Mandela’ are inspirational while songs like ‘Make the world danc’e, ‘Old Skul’ and ‘Tokota’ are primarily feel-good songs for dance. Matters of the heart are sorted out in ‘Love you every day’, ‘Everywhere I go’ and ‘Anything for love’. Generally all themes are covered in different styles and genres which make this album a complete must buy package.

TOP HANGOUTS CHANO8 MAGAZINE

HANG OUTS Chano8

Hangout Uganda

GATTO MATTO

And Restaurant And Garden Lounge

G

atto Matto can best be described as an 'upscale hangout' targeting mostly A-listers in and around Kampala, expatriates as well as tourists who come to enjoy the serene and cool environment enhanced by the trees and flowers in the compound. The cool spacious garden provides a shady relaxing ambience for the patrons who throng the lace for sumptuous meals and coffee.

next cup of coffee, gourmet breakfast, relaxed lunch, fabulous cocktail with friends, sneaky glass of wine or romantic dinner’.

Located at Plot 2 Bandali Rise in Bugolobi, the place is strategically located off Luthuli Avenue just a few meters away from the busy old Portbell Road that heads to Kitintale and Luzira.

When Chano8 talked to one of the beautiful and friendly waitresses for more details, she added that, they can also set up special reservations for their guests and organise meeting areas for small groups, children and special deliveries as well as outside catering.

With simple wooden and African furniture to match the natural setting outdoor, Gatto Matto provides that conducive atmosphere for very busy corporate and business people to sit and relax while having a meal or drink, negotiating a serious deal or just perusing through the day’s dailies.

Information obtained from the managers describes the place as ‘the perfect choice for your

Patrons can expect to enjoy tasty Barbeque, Breakfast, Brunch, Burgers, Diners, Italian and Sandwiches for Breakfast, lunch and dinner with coffee and drinks in different varieties and flavours.

The icing on the cake for revellers and guests of Gatto Matto is the Live Band sessions that take place over the weekends featuring some of Uganda’s top bands like Janzi Band and Band Aroma not forting the evergreen Steven Keyz who performs some cool and absorbing ballads every Tuesday from 8-11pm.

Do you want your favourite hangout to be featured on this page? Please tell us about it on our facebook page @chano8 so that we can check it out and share it with the world.

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.

CHAMELEONE Jose Chameleone and his leane Island crew performs every monday at Club Cyclone in Kabalagala. The theme night called 'Monday night Fever' There is live band and drinks on promotion.

Goodlyfe Goodlyfe crew of Team Radio and Weasel now performs live every Tuesday at Club Amnesia starting at 7:00pm A Night of Live music and fresh Vibes, mingling FREE ENTRY Nile Gold @ 3,500/=

JAZZ COMEDY LAFTAZ Jazz Comedy night every Wednesday at the Laftas Lounge in Centenary Park where Jazz meets comedy.

Show starts at 8:00pm with a collection of high profile comedians with smooth Jazz.

What’s On! 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 BASHMENT Legends presents Bashment Night every tuesday with best in Reggae, Ragga and dancehall music.

Legends bar and restaurant located in Lugogo bypass Kampala

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/=