The Death of Ugandan Music: Andrew Kaggwa Mayiga Blames The Obsessions

Arts and culture journalist Andrew Kaggwa Mayiga recently made a bold statement, suggesting that the decline of the Ugandan music scene began with the emergence of the Obsessions.

In a media interview, he argued that the group’s initial success set a precedent for aspiring artistes who lacked the vocal skills traditionally expected in the industry.

Mayiga believes that the Obsessions paved the way for many artistes, including Sheebah Karungi, Hellen Lukoma, HB Toxic, and Spice Diana.

Despite their questionable singing abilities, the Obsessions gained public acceptance, leading to a shift in what was deemed acceptable in the music landscape.

He stressed that their entry into the music scene created an environment where audiences lost the power to reject acts that did not meet traditional talent standards.

He emphasized that it was the media’s strong support and financial backing that propelled the Obsessions to fame, rather than their actual talents.

Many artistes who possess vocal skills today often struggle to gain media attention without substantial financial investment, he said.

Mayiga also pointed out that the main blame lies with the media for failing to guide and inform the public that the Obsessions were not truly singing but merely shouting.