Veteran Ugandan musician Bebe Cool has unveiled his highly anticipated end-of-year “Bebe Cool List” for 2025, highlighting the artists, songs, and collaborations that, in his view, shaped Uganda’s music landscape over the past year.
Known for its unfiltered opinions and occasional controversy, the list praises creativity and professionalism while critiquing trends he sees as weakening the industry. In his introduction, Bebe Cool described 2025 as an “action-packed” year, marked by both challenges and artistic breakthroughs. He noted that younger musicians pushed creative boundaries more than in 2024 but stressed the importance of standout artists to guide the industry forward.
Topping the list is Bebe Cool himself, for his album Break The Chains. The project, featuring hits such as “Hidden Agendas,” “Cheque” (feat. Joshua Baraka), “Home,” “Motivation,” “Circumference,” “Hips Don’t Lie,” and “Rectangle Love,” blends Afrobeat and Afro-tech sounds. Bebe Cool praised his reinvention and the decision to release a full album, arguing that professional albums, not just singles, are essential for artists aiming for global recognition.
Rising star Joshua Baraka earned accolades for his single “Wrong Places” from the 12-track album Juvie. Bebe Cool called him “the undisputed best young talent in terms of global sound,” noting his international performances and fearless approach to a trend-driven market.
Elijah Kitaka was named Bebe Cool’s “best local male Ugandan artist” for the first time, recognized for tracks like “Ekyange,” “Daily Bundle,” and “Go Remix” (feat. Karole Kasita). The Gagamel boss commended Kitaka’s humility, creativity, and distinctive voice, predicting global success ahead.
Other notable mentions included:
- Dax Vybz for “At My Door” and “Good Idea” (feat. Elijah Kitaka)
- Kapeke for “Kaba,” praised for stage presence and catchy hooks
- Lydia Jazmine for her 16-track album The One & Only, elevating female artists
- FYNO for “Che Che”
- Vinka for “Lala”
- Ray G for “Ow’ishe”
- Uncle Chumi for “Gwokute Gobba”
- Sheebah Karungi for her post-maternity comeback
- Tracy Melon, a rising star to watch
In the collaborations category, Bebe Cool highlighted “See You Tonight” by Cindy Sanyu and Omega 256 as the top pick, alongside Joshua Baraka’s “Wrong Places” and Elijah Kitaka’s “Ekyange.” Other notable collaborations included “Kapati” (Alien Skin & Naxx), “Wanula” (Ava Peace & Temperature), “Ekisododo” (Lil Pazo & Latinum), and “Misolo Boka” (Mad King ft. Nandor Love).
While celebrating the year’s successes, Bebe Cool also expressed concern over the industry’s overall decline, noting that 2025 was weaker than 2024. He attributed this to laziness, low confidence, excuses, and drug abuse, contrasting these trends with his own early hustle in tougher conditions.
Bebe Cool encouraged young artists to take advantage of opportunities offered by social media and government support, citing Joshua Baraka as a model for leveraging modern platforms.
“With the moral authority of my longevity and status, I mean no disrespect—only a call to all stakeholders to raise the bar,” he concluded, congratulating the listed artists and wishing fans a Happy New Year 2026.
The Bebe Cool List continues to stir debate within Uganda’s vibrant music scene, celebrating artistic achievement while pushing for higher standards and global ambition.
