Ugandan singer A Pass Bagonza has sparked a debate on the quality of music in Uganda. Taking to X, he criticized the current trend of what he termed “stupid music” being considered legitimate. A Pass observed that, unlike in the past, where only top-notch music made it to TV or radio, now virality seems to be the only requirement.
“We need a bit of gatekeeping in the Ugandan music industry,” he stated. “Too much stupid music out here. Anything funny and stupid is now a song.” He questioned the standard of music, stressing that previously, a song had to be of high quality to gain airtime. “Back then, you had to have something good to be on radio or TV,” he said. “Nowadays, all you need is to go viral and boom.”
A Pass clarified that his criticism wasn’t directed at the internet, where low-quality music can flourish. Instead, he targeted traditional media platforms like TV and radio. “The internet can have as much garbage as it wants,” he noted. “But our traditional media should have standards.”
The singer emphasized the importance of broadcasting excellent music on TV and radio. He believes it encourages artists to improve their craft. “If we all submitted songs and the best song gets played, it helps the industry grow,” A Pass explained. “It tells the one who doesn’t have the quality song to go home and improve.”
His comments have ignited discussions about the future of Ugandan music and its potential on the global stage. A Pass’s call for gatekeeping aims to set a higher standard for music played on traditional platforms. This, he argues, is crucial for the growth and international competitiveness of Ugandan music.
