In Uganda, the music industry is full of energy, talent, and rapid success. Artists rise to stardom almost overnight, celebrated for their hit songs and captivating performances. But behind the glamour lies a difficult truth—many of these musicians eventually face financial hardship, homelessness, and emotional struggles once the fame fades.
Uganda’s music scene is known for its competitiveness and fast pace. A musician can go from unknown to superstar in months. But just as quickly as fame arrives, it can disappear. When public interest shifts or new talent emerges, many musicians find their income dwindling.
Unfortunately, few are financially prepared for this decline. Lavish spending habits, lack of savings, and limited investment in sustainable ventures often leave artists vulnerable.
Earlier this week, singer Red Banton, real name Tony Lubega, made a heartfelt appearance on local television, revealing his current struggles.
“I have been staying in Bata Bata but the rent was increased and I cannot afford it anymore. Rent is now UGX 400,000. I cannot afford fees for my children nor sustain myself and family. I feel like a moving corpse,” — Red Banton on NTV Uganda, July 2025.
His story is not unique. Several once-celebrated musicians have faced similar realities.
Qute Kaye (Ivan Kavuma), who once topped charts in the early 2000s with hits like Ginkese and Nyumirwa Obulamu, vanished from the music scene and later admitted to drug abuse, blaming it on poor self-control and lack of direction.
In September 2023, Lilian Mbabazi was dragged to authorities by her landlord over unpaid rent amounting to UGX 27 million. She allegedly defaulted on rent for 17 months and abandoned the house.
These stories expose a pattern: many artists do not plan for the future and rely solely on short-term income from music. When that income stops, they are left with nothing.
Experts suggest that to break this cycle, musicians need to treat their careers like businesses. Financial planning, investment in other income sources, and long-term career strategies are essential.
Some artists have successfully diversified their income. Veterans like Mesach Ssemakula and Geoffrey Lutaaya have invested in the leisure and hospitality sectors, building businesses that provide income beyond music.
By learning from such examples, upcoming and current musicians can avoid the trap of short-term fame and build lasting financial stability.
For Uganda’s music industry to thrive long-term, artists must be supported with financial education and encouraged to invest in their futures. It’s not enough to create hits—musicians must also create security.
“The fall from stardom can be harder than the climb if there’s nothing to land on,” says music analyst James Okello of the Uganda Music Association.
