Bebe Cool Releases His Annual Bebe Cool List for 2025
Bebe Cool has once again set the tone for Uganda’s music industry with the release of his annual Bebe Cool List for 2025, highlighting the albums, songs, collaborations, and artists that defined the year. Since its inception in the early 2000s, the list has become more than a ranking, it is a benchmark for excellence, a guidepost for emerging talent, and a candid reflection on the state of the industry.
Topping the 2025 list is Bebe Cool himself for his album Break The Chains. Blending Afrobeat and Afro-tech, the album was designed with global audiences in mind. Tracks such as Hidden Agendas, Cheque (ft. Joshua Baraka), Home, Motivation, and Hips Don’t Lie earned acclaim for professionalism and creativity. Bebe Cool emphasised the importance of albums in establishing artistry:
“An artist without a professional album will never be considered a professional artist.”
The list also shines a spotlight on rising talent with global potential. Joshua Baraka earned recognition for his single Wrong Places from the 12-track album Juvie, praised for originality and international appeal. Elijah Kitaka was highlighted as a local male artist poised for global stardom, thanks to his distinct voice, creative projects, including Ekyange, Daily Bundle, and Go (Remix), and strong branding.
Independence and consistency were celebrated as well. Dax Vybz received acclaim for At My Door and Good Idea, showing discipline in navigating the industry independently. Kapeke returned to the list with Kaba, recognized for catchy hooks, danceable tunes, and commanding stage presence. Female artists also made their mark: Lydia Jazmine for One & Only, Vinka for Lala, and Sheebah for a strong post-maternity comeback.
Collaboration emerged as a defining factor in 2025. The top collaboration was See You Tonight by Cindy Sanyu and Omega 256, while other notable pairings included Joshua Baraka, Elijah Kitaka, Kapati, Wanula, Ekisododo, and Misolo Boka. These works highlighted the creative synergy shaping Uganda’s music scene.
Despite celebrating talent, Bebe Cool issued a stern warning about the industry’s trajectory. He noted a decline in overall quality, observing that 2025 was weaker than 2024, 2024 weaker than 2023, and 2023 weaker than 2022. He attributed this to laziness, low confidence, excuses, and drug abuse, urging artists to prioritise consistency, professionalism, and creativity over fleeting virality. Drawing on his early career, when he hustled in Nairobi without social media or extensive media platforms, Bebe Cool reminded artists that perseverance, hard work, and vision are essential to lasting success.
Concluding on an optimistic note, Bebe Cool encouraged the industry to take advantage of more radio stations, social media, improved technology, and government support. The Bebe Cool List 2025 stands not just as a celebration of achievement but as a roadmap, urging artists, producers, and stakeholders to raise standards, define direction, and build a globally respected Ugandan music industry.
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