Ugandan musicians Juliana Kanyomozi, Bebe Cool and A-Pass. PHOTO/COURTESY
Ugandan music star Bebe Cool has received glowing endorsements from fellow artists ahead of the release of his upcoming album Break the Chains, set to debut on all major streaming platforms on May 30.
The project marks a significant shift in sound for the veteran musician, known for fusing reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeat. Two singles off the album—Motivation and Circumference—have already sparked debate over his evolving musical style.
However, early listeners, including music heavyweights Juliana Kanyomozi and A Pass, have described the album as a standout effort with international appeal.
“What has excited me about this sound and Bebe Cool is his ability to sound different. He’s so versatile—it’s something I admire,” Juliana said in a video shared on Tuesday.
She added: “You hear growth. This is the first time we are hearing a Ugandan album sounding this good, sounding really international. He wants to inspire even his fellow artists.”
Juliana revealed her favourite track is Home, a guitar-driven, pop-influenced song composed in collaboration with renowned instrumentalist Myko Ouma. According to insiders, the track evokes the emotional pull of Bebe Cool’s earlier hit Love You Everyday.
Singer and songwriter A Pass also gave the album high marks after a private listening session.
“My thoughts on the album are solid. It’s a nice body of work—well mixed, vocals are crisp, and the beats are clear. Everything is done to the dot,” he said.
He praised Motivation in particular, saying, “Davido would be proud to own that song.” Asked which track he would remix, A Pass pointed to Circumference, citing its “artistic angle” and stylistic compatibility.
Bebe Cool’s Break the Chains is shaping up to be one of Uganda’s most anticipated musical releases of the year.
