From bold reinvention to rising stars and unfinished business, Bebe Cool’s annual ranking of Uganda’s standout music moments blends praise, provocation, and a warning to an industry he believes can still do better.
Every January 1, outspoken singer Moses Ssali, better known as Bebe Cool, releases what has become one of Uganda’s most anticipated and debated music verdicts: The Bebe Cool List.
Part review, part provocation, the list ranks the year’s standout artists, projects, and songs, offering applause where it’s earned and blunt criticism where it’s deserved. Love it or loathe it, the list consistently sparks conversation across the industry.
According to Bebe Cool, 2025 was a year of contradictions. While plagued by controversy and disruption, he believes it slightly outperformed 2024 creatively, thanks largely to young artists willing to experiment, challenge norms, and look beyond familiar local formulas.
Bebe Cool – Break The Chains (Album)
At the top of his list sits Bebe Cool himself, a choice he insists is not driven by ego but by evidence.
His album Break The Chains marked a deliberate reinvention, blending Afrobeat and Afro-tech while reshaping both his sound and image. With standout tracks such as Hidden Agendas, Cheque featuring Joshua Baraka, Home, Motivation, Hips Don’t Lie, and Rectangle Love, the project resonated beyond Uganda’s borders.
For Bebe Cool, the album represents more than personal success. He sees it as a statement on the importance of album culture, arguing that true professionalism begins with cohesive bodies of work rather than scattered singles.
Joshua Baraka – Wrong Places
Tipped as Uganda’s most globally competitive young artist, Joshua Baraka earned high praise for Wrong Places, a standout single from his 12-track album Juvie.
Bebe Cool applauded Baraka’s willingness to sound different, invest heavily in his craft, and intentionally target international audiences.
“Right now,” he noted, “Joshua Baraka represents Uganda well on the global stage.”
Elijah Kitaka – Ekyange, Daily Bundle, Go Remix ft Karole Kasita
Crowned Best Local Male Artist of 2025, Elijah Kitaka impressed with consistency, creativity, and versatility. Bebe Cool highlighted his distinct voice, strong fashion identity, humility, and the strategic backing of Swangz Avenue as key elements positioning him for a potential global breakthrough.
Dax Vybz – At My Door, Good Idea ft Elijah Kitaka
Dax Vybz returned to the list with two solid releases. What stood out most for Bebe Cool was the artist’s determination to carve his own path rather than rely on family legacy. Growth, discipline, and persistence, he said, signal an artist steadily rising.
Kapeke – Kaba
After a quiet spell, Kapeke re-emerged with Kaba, earning praise for its catchy hooks, unique style, and commanding stage presence. Bebe Cool believes consistency could see him outshine many of his peers.
Lydia Jazmine – The One & Only (Album)
Though she lacked a chart-dominating hit, Lydia Jazmine made the list through her 16-track album, which appealed to fans of soft, melodic music. Bebe Cool emphasized that investing in albums elevates professionalism, especially in a male-dominated industry.
FYNO – Che Che
After years working behind the scenes as a songwriter, FYNO finally stepped into the spotlight with Che Che. Bebe Cool described the song as a well-earned breakthrough following a long, patient journey.
Vinka – Lala
Vinka’s Lala earned recognition for its calm, polished execution. Bebe Cool summed it up simply: good music that deserves acknowledgment without overanalysis.
Ray G – Ow’ishe
While Ray G did not surpass his dominant 2024 run, Ow’ishe secured his place on the list. Bebe Cool noted his steady growth and continued relevance.
Uncle Chumi – Gwokute Gobba
Uncle Chumi was praised for transforming perceived weaknesses into strengths. Gwokute Gobba stood out for its originality and cultural resonance.
Sheebah Karungi
Returning from maternity leave, Sheebah Karungi earned recognition for reclaiming her space in the industry. Though Somebody was not a runaway hit, Bebe Cool praised her resilience and ability to reassert her presence after a year-long break.
Tracy Melon
Despite lacking a defining hit, Tracy Melon made the list due to her consistent visibility and sustained buzz throughout 2025.
Best collaborations of 2025
Top Collaboration
See You Tonight – Cindy Sanyu & Omega 256
Bebe Cool hailed the song as one of the year’s finest, praising Cindy Sanyu’s musical authority and Omega 256’s rising potential. He ranked it alongside Wrong Places and Ekyange as a strong Song of the Year contender.
Other notable collaborations
Kapati – Alien Skin & Naxx
Wanula – Ava Peace & Temperature
Ekisododo – Lil Pazo & Latinum
Misolo Boka – Mad King ft Nandor Love
A warning to the industry
Despite moments of brilliance, Bebe Cool closed his list with a cautionary note. In his view, 2025 was still weaker than 2024, extending what he sees as a troubling downward trend.
He blamed laziness, false confidence, excuses, and drug abuse for slowing progress, urging artists to think globally and work with greater discipline.
“With better technology, government support, and world-class studios now available,” he argued, “there is no excuse for Uganda’s music industry not to rise higher.”
Don’t want to miss out on any story? For updates on all Sqoop stories, follow this link on Telegram: https://t.me/Sqoop and Whatsapp: https://whatsapp.com/channel
