Musician Mike Wine has shared his view on why many of Uganda’s music pioneers are no longer actively investing in upcoming artistes.
Over the years, veteran musicians such as Jose Chameleone, Bobi Wine, and Bebe Cool played significant roles in mentoring and supporting young talents who later became successful in the industry.
Jose Chameleone is credited with supporting artistes like Radio and Weasel, King Saha, and Pallaso, while Bobi Wine helped nurture talents such as Eddy Kenzo, Zex Bilangilangi, and Sizza Man. Bebe Cool also played a role in the early career of Rema Namakula.
However, Mike Wine says this culture of established musicians supporting younger talents has significantly declined.
According to him, many veteran artistes have lost interest because some of the musicians they help fail to appreciate the support once they become successful.
“Artistes have lost trust in uplifting young musicians. Many people are unappreciative after making it big. They don’t look back at what was done for them, and that has made many senior artistes lose interest in helping others,” Mike Wine said.
He noted that gratitude and loyalty are important in maintaining mentorship relationships in the music industry, adding that the lack of appreciation has discouraged many established stars from taking chances on emerging talent.