Keko, one of Uganda’s most influential rap artists, has recently re-emerged onto the music scene with a renewed sense of optimism about the industry’s growth, while simultaneously voicing candid criticism of the current state of Hip Hop. Her reflections, drawn from both personal experience and a deep understanding of the music landscape, offer a unique perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing Ugandan and global Hip Hop today.
A New Chapter: Keko’s Comeback and Industry Optimism
After a period marked by personal struggles and a move to Canada, Keko has returned to Uganda’s music stage, bringing with her a revitalized spirit and a clear-eyed view of the industry’s evolution. In recent interviews and performances, such as her appearance on the Tusker Malt Conversessions series, Keko showcased both her artistry and resilience, performing tracks that span her career and narrate her journey through highs and lows. Her return has been met with enthusiasm, not just from long-time fans but also from a new generation of listeners inspired by her authenticity and raw talent.
Keko’s optimism is grounded in the tangible growth of the music industry, both locally and globally. According to the IFPI’s Global Music Report 2025, recorded music revenues have seen a decade of continuous growth, reaching $29.6 billion in 2024. This expansion, fueled by innovation, technology, and increased investment in artists, has opened new avenues for creative and commercial success. Keko recognizes that this growth is not accidental but the result of hard work, vision, and the relentless pursuit of artistic excellence. She sees immense potential for Ugandan artists to leverage these global trends, especially as digital platforms and direct-to-fan tools become more accessible and influential in shaping careers.
Critical Reflections on Ugandan Hip Hop
Despite her positive outlook on the broader music industry, Keko remains critical of the current state of Hip Hop in Uganda. She has not shied away from highlighting the genre’s internal challenges, particularly the lack of unity among artists. In her view, the absence of collaboration and the prevalence of negative competition have stunted the genre’s growth and limited its ability to attract corporate sponsorship, media attention, and a wider audience. Keko’s critique echoes those of other Hip Hop purists, who lament the rise of “watered down” content and the overshadowing of authentic, message-driven rap by commercially oriented, simplistic tracks.
Keko’s concerns extend to the media’s role in shaping the Hip Hop narrative. She has openly criticized the Ugandan media for failing to support local talent, arguing that this lack of backing undermines the export potential of Ugandan music and stifles the fire of creativity. This sentiment is shared by other artists who feel that radio stations and awards platforms often prioritize trends over substance, giving airtime to “bubblegum rap” at the expense of genuine Hip Hop artistry.
Hope for the Next Generation
Despite these criticisms, Keko remains hopeful about the future of Hip Hop in Uganda. She sees promise in the next generation of artists, provided they embrace a spirit of collaboration and remain true to the core principles of the genre. Her recent collaboration with Afrigo legend Moses Matovu serves as an example of bridging generational divides and experimenting with new sounds, signaling her openness to innovation while maintaining respect for Hip Hop’s roots.
Keko also believes that the growing global music ecosystem, with its emphasis on community building and direct fan engagement, offers Ugandan artists unprecedented opportunities to connect with audiences and build sustainable careers. She encourages emerging rappers to focus on lyrical depth, authenticity, and unity, warning against the temptation to chase short-term fame at the expense of artistic integrity.
Conclusion
Keko’s journey is emblematic of the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in today’s music industry. Her optimism about the sector’s growth is balanced by a critical awareness of the challenges facing Hip Hop, particularly in Uganda. By advocating for unity, authenticity, and innovation, Keko not only reclaims her place as a cornerstone of Ugandan rap but also charts a hopeful path forward for the genre and its next generation of stars.