By Nathan Eyagu 

Ugandan music icon Bebe Cool has released his highly anticipated Bebe Cool List 2025, spotlighting a new generation of artists who are redefining the country’s sound and global ambition. At the forefront of this shift are Joshua Baraka and Elijah Kitaka, two young talents whose creativity, discipline, and international appeal set them apart in an increasingly competitive industry.

According to Bebe Cool, 2025 showed improved creativity compared to the previous year, largely driven by younger artists willing to experiment beyond traditional norms. He noted that audiences are now open to almost anything, adding that innovation rather than conformity has become the currency of relevance.

Joshua Baraka emerged as one of the strongest names on the list, praised for his globally competitive sound and strategic approach to music. His single Wrong Places, off the 12-track album Juvie, stood out as one of Uganda’s most internationally resonant releases of 2025.

While the album title may not yet be widely recognized on the local scene, Bebe Cool emphasized that Juvie houses some of Uganda’s most successful songs on the global market. The achievement, he noted, is a result of heavy investment, intentional decision-making, and a clear focus on international audiences qualities that have also been reflected in Baraka’s growing list of overseas performances.

Elijah Kitaka earned recognition as the best local male artist on the list, a rare distinction that underscores his growing influence. Bebe Cool highlighted Kitaka’s humility, patience, and originality, describing him as an artist whose global breakthrough is a matter of time rather than possibility.

In 2025, Kitaka was involved in multiple major projects, including Ekyange, Daily Bundle, and the Go Remix featuring Karole Kasita. His unique vocal texture, strong fashion identity, and solid backing from Swangz Avenue were cited as key factors behind his steady rise.

Beyond individual artists, the Bebe Cool List 2025 placed renewed emphasis on the importance of albums. Bebe Cool argued that full-length projects are a defining marker of professionalism and global stature, pointing to his own album Break The Chains as an example of how artists can create richer, longer-lasting impact through cohesive bodies of work.

He noted that the global market has shifted, with albums providing more content, more visuals, and greater longevity than isolated singles.

Despite celebrating standout performances, Bebe Cool expressed concern over what he described as a gradual decline in industry standards compared to previous years. He attributed this trend to complacency, lack of discipline, and substance abuse, urging artists to take advantage of today’s expanded platforms, improved technology, and growing government support.

He concluded by congratulating all artists who made the 2025 list, while calling on musicians and industry stakeholders to reflect, reset, and aim higher.

As Uganda’s music landscape continues to evolve, the rise of artists like Joshua Baraka and Elijah Kitaka signals a promising new wave one driven by creativity, global vision, and a willingness to break from the norm.