TAKEAWAYS

• Peter Miles says his late mother was his strongest supporter when dancehall music struggled for acceptance in Uganda.
• The singer recalls performing at the launch of MTV Base alongside Nigerian star 2Baba.
• He says he is not rushing into a concert and wants one that is carefully rehearsed and professionally organized.

Celebrated Ugandan dancehall legend Peter Miles, born Peter Kanyike, has reflected on his remarkable journey in the music industry, crediting his late mother and family for shaping his success.

Peter Miles, who recently lost his mother at the age of 81, revealed that her unwavering support carried him through some of the most challenging moments of his career, especially at a time when Ugandans were still struggling to embrace dancehall music.

The Frontline singer explained that while many people failed to understand his sound in the early days, his mother remained his greatest believer and source of motivation.

 “When people didn’t understand my music and the genre was still being rejected, my mother stood by me and believed in me,” Peter Miles shared.

According to the veteran musician, his ambitions in music were never solely driven by financial gain. Instead, he aimed to elevate Uganda’s presence on the global music stage and proudly raise its flag through his craft.

Miles recalled one of the defining moments of his career when he was selected among a few African artistes to perform during the launch of MTV Base, becoming the only Ugandan on the lineup.

He performed alongside African music heavyweights including Nigerian legend 2Baba, formerly known as 2Face Idibia, an experience he says remains one of his proudest achievements.

 “My dream was bigger than money. I wanted Uganda to be recognized and respected through music,” he noted.

Despite growing calls from fans for a concert, Peter Miles says he is not rushing the process. He insists that any concert bearing his name must meet his artistic standards, including extensive rehearsals and live instrumentation identical to the original recordings.

The dancehall icon also reflected on difficult moments in his journey, including an arrest in Kenya that he eventually overcame. Today, besides music, Miles spends much of his time enjoying business ventures and life on the shores of Lake Victoria, where he operates several boats.