ARTICLES

Respect The Urge: Nyege Nyege 2017.

Published

8 years ago

September 20, 2017

Few events on Uganda’s Annual Entertainment calendar have the Appeal and the Allure that Nyege Nyege can boast about. In Three years, this Three Day Annual Festival had garnered the respect of East Africa and the World over by attracting a vast multitude of people from countries as far as South Korea , all converging at Nile Discovery Beach in Jinja , Uganda .

The Nyege Nyege crowd consists of Different Ethnic Backgrounds stretching far and wide across the Globe. I have personally attended two editions of Nyege Nyege (2016 and the recently concluded 2017 Edition) and I have this to say : You have NOT LIVED until you have respected the Urge that is, Nyege Nyege.

My Journey to Jinja this year began aboard The Jumia Party bus on Friday 1st September courtesy of the good folks at Jumia Travel. We set off from the Garden City Parking Lot at exactly 3:30PM, excitement surging through our bones and blood pumping through our veins anticipating the Weekend of Music, Madness, Partying and Fun that awaited us in Jinja. We kicked off with Complimentary Cocktails from the Pearl Guide and Uganda Waragi who, just like us, were #Loco4Coco.

The Music blazing through the speakers gave us a Warm Up of What to Expect with a compilation of Nyege Nyege mixes from some of the acts that performed last year and some expected to perform at this year’s edition. On Standby was the Crew from Urban Television ready to give our viewers a Sneak Peek of all the action on our Party Bus. We made Multiple stops here and there for our Party Animals who needed to answer “Nature’s Call” and at exactly 6:00PM, with Two-thirds of our journey complete, we kicked off a Live Broadcast of SKIZZY : Turn Up Friday, straight from the Jumia Party Bus.

As the Host of The Show, I interacted with some of the people on the Bus and discovered that we had guests from as far as Czech Republic, Germany, China and Australia who all came to Uganda for Nyege Nyege 2017. Amidst the lituation was Jumia Travel PR Manager, Cynthia Tumwine (also known as Ninja C) who kept the Party going all the way to Nile Discovery Beach. We arrived at the venue at exactly 6:30PM and I wrapped up a few Interviews at the Entrance. By 7:00PM, my show was ending but the Party was just about to start.

Hugs and Cries of Reunion could be heard across the entrance as hundreds of people reconnected with old friends all ready for Nyege Nyege, After sorting out my Entrance and Accomodation details, I walked through the gates and received my necessary Wristbands for Access to the Venue. In my own Cassper Nyovest voice, ” MAMA I MADE IT !!!!”

This Year’s edition of Nyege Nyege promised 4 Stages of Non Stop Entertainment and it was my goal to experience each and every one of them. I stepped onto what felt like the top of a loud hill and below was a sight to behold: Food Stalls, Mini-Bars, Rolex Stands, Outdoor Restaurants, Arts and Crafts, Alcohol, Freedom, Dancing, Music that made the Ground Shake, Lights that bounced and warmed your Face, Different Colours of Skin, Cultures mixing, Cameras Flashing, Languages that changed from one person to the next, Tribal Paint, Faces and More Faces, The Smell of Nightlife and the Sound of Joy. All These things filled the air.

I made my way to the foot of the hill on what felt like a really slippery path due to the rain and wondered how people could continue to party in conditions like that and i was quickly hit with this realization: People DIDN’T CARE. That was the Beauty of Nyege Nyege. It stripped us of all social standards we set for ourselves (and stripped some people of their clothes) and provided the Ultimate Down to Earth celebration of Life. And This was just Friday.

I closed my first night at Nyege Nyege at 5:30AM on Saturday and took a breather. The biggest battle was : My body needed the sleep but my Mind wanted to Party. The fact that i could hear the Music nearby was tempting enough to take me out of my bed and back to the party at 10:00AM. After a quick shower and short breakfast, the celebration resumed.

Saturday, I feel, is the Height of Nyege Nyege. It is Music at Its Most Primal, Bodies at Their Most Sexual. In a phrase, it is LIFE IN THE WILD. Every performance seemed to grow and mold its way into the next. Every DJ seemed to hold the crowd tighter in his palms. Every speaker blasted louder than the night before. Every new drop of rain made the crowd wet but gave the party more life. Every artist sang louder, rapped faster and drew closer to the hearts of those that watched and danced with them. It was at this point in the Festival that i knew, Nyege Nyege had taken a life of its own.

Saturday Night pulled in More Familiar Faces and the Reunions that started at the Entrance doubled on the Festival grounds. But it was the new faces that brought out a new type of joy. An experience that one doesn’t feel often. The feeling of talking to someone new, dancing with someone new, kissing someone new, sharing a drink with someone new, smoking a joint with someone new all added up to one thing: Nyege Nyege 2017 was designed to give its party goers something they hadn’t experienced. And to me, watching all this happen was in itself : Refreshing.

Sunday came at the Climax of the Festival. Energies spent. Strength tested. Sleep demanded. But the Urge needed to be respected. I did as i had done the night before. Quick Shower, Short Breakfast and my body begun to float back to the Vibes like a Bee to a Hive. The Bodies in front of me displayed signs of two days worth of LITUATION but no sign of backing down. The Music became more Tribal and Traditional. Newer faces showed up at the Entrance, officials running up and down to receive them and those that sought Accomodation outside the venue returned for what was built to be an epic conclusion to a 3Part Festival.

At this point, the Sun made its final attempt to bring heat back to Nile Discovery Beach. Most of the campers on site now relied heavily on water from River Nile to take a shower or wash off the mud from Saturday’s escapades but the Rain was already on its way by 4:00PM. It was at this point that i chose to humbly bow out of the Nyege Nyege Festival but judging from the events of Friday and Saturday, i knew what to expect: THE. PARTY. WOULD. NOT. STOP.

There is no way to conclude this recap that would possibly describe the feeling of Nyege Nyege in the best way or in the most complete way. This is One Man’s Experience. But the images in my mind stay vivid. Etched into my existence. Sewn into my memories. Its the kind of event you can’t experience vicariously. You need to be there to LIVE it for yourself. I finish writing this from my work desk at 11:24PM on Monday Night with a smile on my face as i review the best moments of this past weekend and make a mental promise to myself: Come Nyege Nyege 2018, I will be there.

Time to sign out : I go by the name, TimothyCODE.

ARTICLES

Kohen Jaycee’s ‘Gundeze’: A Soulful Anthem of Love.

Published

2 months ago

January 24, 2025

thetribe

Am I the only one imagining how a mix of Kohen’s “Gundeze” and King Saha’s “Gundeze” would sound in a DJ set? And I’m not saying that just because King Saha’s concert is kicking off as I type this. Maybe it’s just me.

From his critically acclaimed album, RWEBEMBERA: The Raising Echoes, Kohen Jaycee’s “Gundeze” is a vibrant celebration of love wrapped in his signature RnB and Afro-fusion style with a sprinkle of Amapiano’s log drum. The track’s heartfelt lyrics and infectious rhythm make it a soulful anthem for anyone who cherishes the beauty of love. The lyrics are simple yet profound, with Kohen professing unwavering devotion to his partner:“I love you, Gundeze / I feel you, Gundeze / I want you, Gundeze / I need you, Gundeze.”

The music video for Kohen Jaycee’s Gundeze perfectly complements the song’s soulful and romantic essence. Staying true to Kohen’s signature style, the visuals are minimalistic yet captivating, set against the serene backdrop of a lush forest. The video follows Kohen as he alternates between intimate moments with his significant other and heartfelt solo performances amidst nature. This simplicity allows the focus to remain on the song’s message of love and connection, making the video a beautiful extension of the track’s uplifting and heartfelt vibe.

The chorus, repeated like a mantra, draws listeners into a melodic trance, while the verses paint a picture of intimacy, trust, and connection. Kohen’s soothing voice and heartfelt delivery elevate the song into a timeless ode to love. Whether it’s the wish for stars to align or the plea for mutual vulnerability, Kohen’s “Gundeze” resonates with anyone who has experienced the magic of love. The simplicity of the video enhances the song’s essence, focusing entirely on the connection between two souls.

“Gundeze” is more than just a track; it’s a reminder to cherish the ones we hold dear, dance to the rhythm of love, and embrace the beauty of the present moment. Kohen Jaycee has once again proven why he’s a standout artist in Uganda’s music scene, leaving us eagerly anticipating his next move.

ARTICLES

On the Move by Denesi: A Powerful Anthem of Hustle and Ambition

Published

2 months ago

January 24, 2025

thetribe

Denesi’s “On the Move,” the opening track on his debut album Everything Is Real, is an anthem of ambition, resilience, and community, underscored by a gritty hip-hop aesthetic. Produced by Northbound Beats, the track captures the pulse of Kampala’s streets, blending hard-hitting lyrics with a hypnotic beat that mirrors the hustle it portrays.

The accompanying video brings the song’s narrative to life, embracing the classic hip-hop imagery of camaraderie and grind. From the corner store to the stage and finally to the laid-back moments of planning the next move, the visuals reflect Denesi’s journey and the community he’s built. Cameos from collaborators like Lagumtherapper, Akeine, Lucass Blacc, and Manly add depth, showcasing the collective spirit that defines his artistry.

Lyrically, “On the Move” is both a reflection and a manifesto. Denesi paints vivid pictures of Kampala’s dualities: the sunlit streets masking a tougher reality, where survival demands creativity and grit. Lines like “Welcome to the city of the dogs and the criminals / You ain’t making money, you ain’t working, you ain’t real enough” set the tone, balancing raw honesty with undeniable swagger.

The hook, with its repeated refrain of “Who dat on the move, me I’m on the move”, is a declaration of aspiration. It positions Denesi as a trailblazer, reaching for heights beyond the ordinary while staying grounded in his roots. The mention of his collaborators in the hook reinforces the communal ethos of his work, a nod to the people who’ve shaped his journey.

Denesi’s storytelling is sharp and layered. He captures the struggles of navigating Kampala’s streets (“You know Kampala streets, man, the trouble’s never over”) and dreams of transcending them (“When I make a billy, prolly settle down / Maybe buy a villa, buy the whole town”). His versatility shines as he shifts from local struggles to global ambitions, even hinting at cross-border hustles with lines like “I trap on some Lingala shit, they pay me plus the benefits”.

The production complements the lyrical intensity, with Northbound Beats crafting a soundscape that feels both contemporary and rooted. The beat’s steady rhythm mirrors the relentless drive described in the lyrics, while the layered instrumentation adds depth and texture.

Overall, “On the Move” is a powerful introduction to Denesi’s world. It’s a song that celebrates ambition, acknowledges struggle, and underscores the importance of community. With its infectious hook, sharp lyricism, and dynamic visuals, the track sets the stage for what promises to be an impactful debut album. Denesi isn’t just on the move—he’s carving a path to the moon, and he’s taking his people with him.

ARTICLES

Reviving Nostalgia: Akeine and Henry Tigan’s “Out of Control” Remix.

Published

2 months ago

January 24, 2025

thetribe

In this exciting edition of The Tribe UG Press Play, we’re thrilled to present a vibrant collaboration that bridges the gap between nostalgia and innovation. Fast-rising artist Akeine teams up with legendary dancehall star Henry Tigan to breathe new life into Tigan’s 2013 hit song, “Out of Control,” delivering a captivating remix that’s sure to win over fans old and new.

Akeine brings a modern twist to this beloved classic, collaborating with talented producer Andy Muzic to craft a fresh sound that retains the essence of the original. The remix seamlessly blends nostalgia with contemporary vibes, creating a track that resonates with today’s audience while honoring its roots. Henry Tigan’s stellar performance adds depth and familiarity, as he revisits the fan-favorite verse that made the original a standout hit.

This remix isn’t just a song—it’s a celebration of timeless music reimagined for a new generation. The official music video takes the energy to another level, showcasing both artists in their element and bringing the remix to life with vibrant visuals and electrifying performances. Don’t miss this unforgettable collaboration that proves great music transcends time.

The Tribe UG Press Play is more than just a platform; it’s a solution to a long-standing challenge in Uganda’s urban music industry. Despite the abundance of incredible songs, the rap industry has often struggled to release music videos due to logistical and financial constraints. Recognizing this gap, our parent company, Skyline Media & Management Limited, launched The Tribe UG Press Play to empower artists and showcase their work visually.

Through this initiative, we produce high-quality visuals for some of our favorite Ugandan urban songs, helping artists connect with their audiences in new and exciting ways. By supporting the creation of music videos, The Tribe UG Press Play is not only amplifying the voices of talented artists but also enriching the local music scene.

Stay tuned for more groundbreaking collaborations and visual masterpieces as we continue to celebrate the best of Ugandan urban music. Follow The Tribe UG and Skyline Media for updates, and don’t forget to check out the “Out of Control” remix by Akeine and Henry Tigan!