TAKEAWAYS

• King Saha says Ray G is his brother and not a rival.
• Both musicians recently staged successful concerts at Kololo Independence Grounds.
• The debate around their concerts sparked conversations about politics, regional identity and tribalism.

Musician King Saha has dismissed any possibility of a musical battle with Western Uganda star Ray G, saying the two should not be turned into rivals by fans or political and regional narratives.

The musicians recently found themselves at the centre of an unexpected public comparison following their successful concerts at Kololo Independence Grounds. Ray G’s concert, held last month, attracted huge crowds and was widely celebrated as a major success.

A few days later, King Saha also staged his own concert at the same venue, which was equally successful.

However, the timing of the two events sparked an uncomfortable debate among sections of the public, with fans turning the concerts into a contest over who could attract bigger numbers.

The discussion was further complicated by politics and regional identity. Ray G, who commands a huge following in Western Uganda and has previously performed at NRM campaign events, was associated by some with the ruling party. King Saha, meanwhile, has publicly expressed support for the NUP and was drawn into conversations involving Buganda identity.

“Ray G is my brother. I cannot battle him,” King Saha said, dismissing suggestions of a showdown between the two musicians.

According to the Wewe singer, people should remain true to themselves instead of allowing public opinion to define who they are or who they should associate with.

“In life, we meet people with different opinions. We learn from each other and get to understand one another, but that does not mean we should reject them.”

King Saha said he does not see Ray G as a rival and urged fans to stop pushing a narrative of competition between them.

Both concerts proved that the two musicians have strong audiences and can successfully fill major venues. But the debate surrounding them also exposed how easily music can become entangled in politics, tribal identity and regional divisions.

King Saha’s response could help cool tensions that were beginning to build, sending a message that competition in music should not come at the expense of unity.