ARTICLES

Lagum the Rapper “RZR” Review

Published

3 years ago

October 25, 2021

By @paulothewriter

At this point, it’s completely safe to say that Lagum is competing in a league where he is the champion and the opposition. The consistency in how he experiments to always create something uniquely different but still maintaining a familiar Lagum touch is honestly f**king impressive.

In season one of The Tribe UG podcast, we talked about his lockdown project “ISO.” The general feedback was that he packaged a well-deserving piece. Well deserving of all the hype and well-deserving of the many times many of us played it without skipping.

Listening to RZR, you have no doubt that Lagum is still at that wavelength. I mainly think this might be the best project he has done. And it will obviously remain one of the best projects he’ll ever do. RZR is a landmark.

So when we talk about music that has been created at a level where we feel like the industry has been trying to go for so long, RZR is your google maps lady saying, “you have arrived at your destination.”

I listened to the project, and I couldn’t help but feel like this is a project I will definitely listen to 10 years from now – I hope I remember.

What’s incredible is how Lagum always utilizes other artists on his projects. If this album was a franchise, Lagum is Nick Fury, and it’s an Avengers Assemble situation – haha, okay! Enough of these, but you get it, right?

Every artist that features came off a sober good night’s sleep & executed at 100%.

Looking at the tracklist, you will find a couple of new names. When these new names get down to doing their thing, you humbly respect Lagum’s good ear for who will be suitable for what song. He artfully exploits their different skills to elevate each featured track to a level he could not achieve with no feature. The profound respect I have for Lagum is largely due to his self-awareness; his ability to know when a song might sound monotonous and proceed to let someone else share that spotlight.

My favorite song off this album is “One In A Million,” which features Lamu and SoLa. Lagum goes first and lays the perfect canvas for the ladies to sprinkle all the magic their verses are dripping with. Lamu’s verse is as gracefully beautiful as she is. The Swahili blend is a new high, and if you get tempted to, don’t be ashamed to rewind a little bit and hear it more than once.

I am hearing SoLa for the first time on this track, and this is one hell of a first impression. I’d love to listen to a lot more of her music. Someone point me to where I can find it. I couldn’t find anything on the world wide web.

Other notable tracks are Some Lovin’, Keep U Around, Kampala – obviously. I struggled with Kampala the first time, but it has grown on me like Davido’s songs after the first time you listen to them.

Xenia Manasseh brought that ‘Kenyan connect,’ and she represented the 254 exceptionally. Her delivery on “Keep U Around” is such a smooth listen. It reminds you of that good RnB we don’t get anymore.

To think about it, Lagum has for a long time been on to something. And with RZR, he seems to have finally gotten there. It’s been a progressive curve like your age, and I’m very excited and curious to see where he takes it from here.

Most of the reception for this album has been great. It is one of those times where the group chat (the Tribe UG group chat) isn’t too divided.

In a world where everyone seems to have an opinion on how people create and an opinion, they think people should care about. I will join that bandwagon on this one by telling you that this album is excellent, and you should listen and agree with me.

If you disagree with me, go to Tidal, Spotify, Apple Music… Wherever you find this project and listen to it. Let’s argue in about a year, for now, let’s embrace the Ugandan urban gift that is Lagum and his incredible music.

ARTICLES

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

Published

3 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

3 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

3 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!