Singer Joshua Baraka has ignited fresh debate in Uganda’s music circles after insisting that he wants his work to define him rather than affiliations, networks or industry connections. His comments came during an interview with Calvin Da Entertainer, where he was asked how he would handle major international nominations if they ever came his way.
Baraka, one of Uganda’s most celebrated breakout performers this year, was compared to Eddy Kenzo, a two-time Grammy nominee who has amassed several international awards over the past decade. Calvin referenced Kenzo’s latest Grammy nomination for 2026, pointing out how the Big Talent boss has often flaunted his global milestones.
When asked whether he would do the same, Baraka responded calmly but firmly. He said he wants his music to speak for him and not be defined by external factors. He added that he does not aspire to lean on affiliations or behind-the-scenes networks to earn recognition, insisting that his craft alone should carry him to any international stage he reaches.
“I want to be nominated and get awards and get the things I get on merit because I do them well but of course I network and meet people because I need people to get into certain rooms. However, there are certain things I won’t do to be recognized because I feel like my music can speak for itself. But if it happens like that, well and good, but it’s not something I will go and look for,” he remarked.
The interviewer pressed further, referencing claims from a section of fans who believe that some of Kenzo’s international attention and nominations have been boosted by the viral nature of the dancers in his videos or his global networks. Baraka did not mention Kenzo directly, but maintained that he prefers a career shaped purely by artistic merit rather than external influence.
His remarks have since sparked intense discussion on social media, with some reading them as subtle shade toward Kenzo while others praise Baraka for championing authenticity and creative integrity.
For now, Baraka continues to enjoy a strong year both locally and beyond Uganda’s borders, but his latest comments have added a fresh layer to the ongoing conversation about how Ugandan artists break into the global music scene — and what it truly means to earn international acclaim.
I want my nominations and awards to reflect merit. My music speaks for itself; I don’t want recognition because of who supported me or what connections I have – @itsJoshuaBaraka #UBCHorizonvibe pic.twitter.com/DgdwdNsksH
— UBC UGANDA (@ubctvuganda) November 22, 2025
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