TAKEAWAYS
- Kabako says he has never earned revenue from his TNS music catalog
- Control of the music is allegedly held by Jeff Kiwa, not the artists
- He pledges full support to Sheebah Karungi in the ongoing legal dispute
Former Team No Sleep (TNS) singer Roden Y Kabako has opened up about the ongoing struggle over music ownership between Sheebah Karungi and Jeff Kiwa, revealing that he has never earned any revenue from songs released during his time under the label.
Kabako disclosed that all his music is hosted on the YouTube channel of fellow former TNS artist Sheebah Karungi, a decision they collectively made while still signed to the label. According to him, the move was strategic, as they believed Sheebah—then the bigger brand—had the reach to push their music further.
However, the situation has since taken a complicated turn. Kabako claims that neither he nor Sheebah has access to the accounts where the music is published and monetized, alleging that control lies with TNS founder Jeff Kiwa.
“I have never earned a single penny from my music. Everything I have comes from performances and what fans give me on stage,” Kabako revealed.
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Despite the frustration, the singer says he remains grateful to his supporters, crediting them for sustaining his career over the years through live shows and direct appreciation.
Kabako also confirmed that he is fully backing Sheebah in her ongoing legal battle, noting that their interests are deeply intertwined. He explained that since their music catalogs are tied together, any legal action affecting her inevitably impacts him as well.
“If Sheebah is in court, then I am also in court. We are in the same situation, and I will stand with her all the way,” he stated.
He further used the opportunity to highlight a broader issue within Uganda’s music industry, claiming that many artists lack ownership of their work and are often exploited by industry figures.
Kabako praised artists who speak out against such practices, saying their courage is necessary to push for fairness and change in the industry.
