TAKEAWAYS

• Frank Gashumba says modern artists earn more due to industry growth.
• Older Kadongo Kamu musicians praised for stronger vocal talent.
• Calls for balanced understanding of Eddy Kenzo’s remarks.

Social commentator and political analyst Frank Gashumba has weighed in on the recent controversy surrounding remarks made by Eddy Kenzo about Kadongo Kamu artists, offering a balanced but thought-provoking perspective.

Kenzo has been under scrutiny in recent weeks after comments about pre-2000 musicians were interpreted by some as dismissive. However, Gashumba believes the conversation has been widely misunderstood and lacks proper context.

According to him, artists from the current era—including Dr. Jose Chameleone, Bebe Cool, Bobi Wine, and Spice Diana—have undoubtedly benefited more financially and commercially from their craft compared to musicians from earlier generations.

“The truth is, musicians of this era have earned more from their music because the industry has evolved and there are more platforms today.”

Despite this, Gashumba maintained that talent and vocal ability were stronger among the older generation of musicians, particularly those rooted in the Kadongo Kamu tradition. He emphasized that exposure and media presence have played a major role in elevating modern artists.

“It’s like comparing Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to Pele and Diego Maradona—the current stars have more visibility, but the older generation had exceptional raw talent.”

Gashumba, who referred to Kenzo as a “Muvandimwe” (brother), clarified that the Big Talent boss did not necessarily undermine past musicians but instead highlighted how today’s artists work harder within a more competitive and commercialized industry.

He concluded that both eras deserve recognition for their unique contributions, urging the public to avoid divisive interpretations and instead appreciate the evolution of Uganda’s music landscape.