The vibrant Ugandan music scene has officially entered a new era, and Saturday night at the Ndere Cultural Centre was a defining moment. Joshua Baraka’s debut concert, B’raka Land, didn’t just celebrate his rise to stardom—it ignited a cultural reset that showcased the energy, innovation, and undeniable talent of Uganda’s burgeoning Afro-pop scene.
As the venue filled with eager fans, the night kicked off with an electrifying prelude featuring Uganda’s rising stars: Ricky Odrey, Aijuka, and Kamanzi.
Their raw, untamed talent provided the perfect foundation, offering a glimpse of the promising future of Ugandan music.
The crowd was hungry for more, and the stage was set for something extraordinary.
When Etania took to the stage, anticipation reached a fever pitch. The lights flickered, and for a moment, the entire venue was submerged in darkness. Then, like a bolt of lightning, the stage burst into light, and the Citrus dance troupe took over, signaling the grand entrance of none other than the King of B’raka Land himself—Joshua Baraka.
In a seamless blend of culture, high-energy Afro-pop, and pure charisma, Baraka brought his musical journey to life. Performing hits from his earlier Baby Steps album to his latest release, Juvie. He effortlessly connected with the crowd. From the infectious beats of Still Young to the soulful notes of Tewekweka (still one of his personal favorites), Baraka’s set was a tribute to his musical evolution. Other crowd-pleasers included Dive In, Dreams, Nana, Wrong Places, and the chart-topping Are You Ready Or Not, a rendition of Brick and Lace’s Love is Wicked, which got the audience on their feet.
But Baraka’s concert wasn’t just about the music—it was a celebration of collaboration.
The night saw surprise guest appearances from some of Uganda’s most influential artists, including Maurice Kirya, Mun G, Big Trill, A Pass, and Isabel Twongeirwe.
In a heartfelt moment, Baraka paused to thank his mother for being his pillar, as well as his fans and sponsors for their unwavering support.
With this monumental performance, Baraka has truly arrived, and the future of Ugandan music shines even brighter.
As the night drew to a close, the Ssese Nation DJs kept the energy alive, but the echoes of the celebration lingered long after the last beat. B’raka Land wasn’t just a concert; it was a cultural milestone.
