Eronda
JF-Expert Member
- Dec 16, 2025
- 1,157
- 590
L-R ( Joshua Baraka, King Saha)
A debate has emerged in Uganda's music industry after singer King Saha advised fast-rising musician Joshua Baraka to focus on winning over the Ugandan audience before pursuing greater international success.
Speaking on Baraka's rising profile, King Saha argued that Ugandan artists should first establish themselves firmly at home, building a loyal local fan base and earning recognition within the country's music scene before shifting their focus to global markets. According to Saha, local support provides a strong foundation that can help sustain an artist's career beyond Uganda's borders.
However, Joshua Baraka appeared to disagree with the veteran musician's view. In response, Baraka questioned why any artist should limit their ambitions to becoming the biggest musician in Uganda when global stars such as Drake and the late Michael Jackson have demonstrated the possibilities of international success.
Baraka argued that focusing solely on local dominance could place unnecessary limits on an artist's capabilities and potential. He suggested that musicians should be free to dream bigger and target global audiences from the outset, especially in an era where streaming platforms and social media make it easier to reach listeners across the world.
The exchange has since sparked discussion among music fans and industry stakeholders, with some supporting King Saha's belief that artists should first earn local acceptance before seeking international recognition. Others have sided with Baraka, arguing that talent should not be confined by geographical boundaries and that Ugandan artists should pursue global opportunities whenever they arise.
Do you agree with King Saha that Ugandan artists should first concentrate on impressing the local audience before going international, or do you agree with Joshua Baraka that artists should aim for the global stage from the beginning?