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Brian Babu and Regalia Apparel Launch Unisex ‘Uwili’ Capsule Collection

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For many of us who don’t live in Kenya, our introduction to Brian Babu came through his remarkable work with Sauti Sol. He served as the lead stylist for their 2023 Sol Fest Farewell two-day concert and their 2016 Live and Die in Afrika tour, as well as styling the cover for their “Midnight Train” album. Known for his impeccable eye for detail and ability to craft trend-setting, custom looks, Babu has dressed some of Africa’s biggest stars, including Sauti Sol, Diamond Platnumz, and Mr. Eazi. As one of Africa’s leading fashion stylists, Babu has collaborated with top celebrities and brands like Netflix, Safaricom, and Tecno, consistently delivering high-impact designs.

On a more personal note, I had the opportunity to meet Brian Babu at the Fashion Pillar of the Jägermeister Night Embassy in Nairobi. In person, he is the fashion G.O.A.T., whose pieces, designs, and stylings we have enjoyed seeing and watching other stars adorn.

To allow us to tap into his fashion greatness, Brian Babu has teamed up with the local fashion brand Regalia Apparel to release the much-anticipated ‘Uwili’ capsule collection. This exclusive line, which merges artistic design with expert craftsmanship, is now available for purchase.

The ‘Uwili’ collection, inspired by the natural balance of day and night, was unveiled at an intimate event on September 21st, 2024, at Embe Creatives in Lavington. The launch drew prominent figures from Kenya’s fashion and media scene, along with celebrities and friends, all eager to celebrate this stylish new offering.

The concept behind ‘Uwili’ is rooted in the contrasts of light and darkness, symbolizing the earth’s daily rotation. Each piece in the collection is partially bleached, with lighter sections representing daylight and darker sections evoking the night. Beyond aesthetics, this balance reflects the harmony we all strive for in our emotional and physical well-being.

Regalia Apparel, the fashion brand collaborating with Babu, is known for its commitment to authenticity and quality craftsmanship. Founded by designers David Gachie and Joseph Mureithi, the brand specializes in creating garments from scratch, ensuring each piece undergoes a meticulous stitching and dyeing process. The collaboration began when Babu approached Regalia for a custom piece, sparking the idea for the full ‘Uwili’ collection.

The collection, designed to be versatile and unisex, caters to everyone from age 16 and up. “We wanted this collection to be accessible to everyone, a wardrobe that easily transitions from day to night,” says Babu. The pieces are stylish yet affordable, offering a touch of luxury without compromising on quality or craftsmanship.

“We’re excited to share this collection with the world,” says David Gachie. Regalia’s dedication to high standards is evident in every piece, blending style and function for every occasion.

Babu and Regalia Apparel have collaborated before, creating custom designs for Bensoul’s performance at Blankets and Wine and styling dancers for Sol Fest in 2023. Their shared passion for fashion innovation shines through in every piece of the ‘Uwili’ collection.

As Babu puts it, “When brands come together and share ideas, the results are nothing short of magical.”

The ‘Uwili’ collection is now available for purchase—don’t miss out on this stunning blend of creativity and style!

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

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Photo Credit: Next Media/NXT Radio

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.

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

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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.

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

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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!

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