Big Eye Calls Out Pay for Play Culture in Ugandan Music

Ugandan singer Big Eye StarBoss has weighed in on how music should be handled.

In a post on his X account, he addressed the relationship between artistes and radio presenters, DJs, and music directors.

He said it is acceptable for an artiste to appreciate or even tip a presenter when their song gets played, calling it a sign of respect.

However, he cautioned against making payment a condition for airplay.

According to Big Eye, blocking a good song simply because money was not offered is wrong and harmful.

He added that when money takes priority over merit, credibility suffers and progress slows.

Big Eye urged stakeholders to prioritize good music and fairness if Ugandan music is to move forward.

It is good for an artiste to appreciate and tip a radio presenter, music director or a DJ for playing their song. However, it is wrong to refuse to play a good song simply because you have not been paid. That kind of mindset harms the industry instead of helping it grow. When we prioritize money over quality and fairness, the industry ends up losing its credibility and progress