Songwriter Shena Skies has repeatedly raised concerns about lack of payment and credit from artists she writes music for, sparking ongoing debate about compensation and recognition within Uganda’s music industry.

Reacting to the matter during a phone interview, fellow songwriter Ray Signature said Shena’s frustrations highlight a broader industry challenge but stressed the importance of creatives setting clear boundaries around their work. He noted that to avoid conflict with musicians, Shena had opted to place a price tag on her songwriting services, allowing her to turn down offers she considers too low.

Ray Signature acknowledged that the industry is still struggling to fully stabilize, with many artists not yet earning consistently from their craft. As a result, he believes collaboration and mutual support remain essential.

“Since the industry has not yet stabilized, I cannot blame an artist for low pay,” Ray Signature said. “As a songwriter, if the money they are giving you is not enough, don’t take on the job because no one is forcing you. In this industry, people are helping each other out.”

He added that songwriting is not always financially rewarding and that creatives often work without pay in the spirit of collaboration.

“Sometimes we do songs for free for people; it is not that we get paid all the time. I’m not against Shena’s statement, but to me, it is about the price tag you have attached to yourself,” he explained.

Shena Skies’ revelations have reignited conversations around fair pay, transparency, and respect for songwriters, many of whom work behind the scenes yet play a critical role in shaping hit music.

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