Ugandan singer Azawi has stirred fresh debate in the music scene after boldly claiming she can outperform fellow artist Joshua Baraka in a concert held outside Kampala.
Speaking during an appearance on Galaxy TV, Azawi was asked to weigh her popularity against Baraka, one of Uganda’s most streamed and internationally recognized musicians. While she acknowledged his current dominance, Azawi insisted her strength lies in her deep connection with grassroots audiences.
“If you take us outside Kampala, I believe I can win because my music relates more to the people on the ground,” she said.
Azawi argued that her music resonates more with everyday Ugandans, particularly those in rural and upcountry regions. She contrasted this with Baraka’s sound, which she described as more urban-centric and heavily driven by digital streaming platforms.
Baraka, on the other hand, has enjoyed a remarkable rise, consistently releasing chart-topping hits and gaining traction across international streaming platforms—cementing his place among East Africa’s leading digital-era artists.
Despite her confident stance, Azawi maintained a tone of respect, emphasizing admiration for Baraka’s success.
“Joshua Baraka is doing amazing, and this is his time. Every artist has their peak moment, and what matters is how you bounce back when things slow down,” she added.
She also reflected on the unpredictable nature of the music industry, stressing the importance of reinvention and longevity. Drawing from past examples, she referenced the iconic duo Radio & Weasel, noting how they managed to reclaim dominance after a decline by evolving their sound.
Her remarks have since sparked widespread discussion among fans and industry observers, with many debating whether grassroots connection or streaming dominance carries more weight in determining an artist’s true influence across Uganda.
