Veteran musician Moses Ssali, popularly known as Bebe Cool, has spoken out about what he believes is the growing decline of Uganda’s music industry.
Having spent decades in the industry and consistently releasing his famous “Bebe Cool List” at the end of every year, the Gagamel boss says he has closely observed worrying trends, especially among younger artistes.
According to Bebe Cool, the industry’s struggles are largely driven by four major problems: drug abuse, false confidence, laziness and excuses.
“The Ugandan music industry is declining because of four things — drugs, false confidence, laziness and excuses,” Bebe Cool stated during a media discussion.
He further explained that unlike previous generations of musicians who focused on building lasting careers and creating music for generations, many of today’s artistes have become too comfortable with social media fame and have abandoned the hard work that once defined the industry.
“Artistes today are comfortable because of social media. They have taken a back seat instead of creating music that will last for generations,” he added.
Bebe Cool’s remarks have since sparked debate within the entertainment circles, with many agreeing that the industry needs renewed discipline, creativity and commitment if it is to regain its former glory.