Veteran Ugandan musician Bebe Cool has released his influential end-of-year “Bebe Cool List” for 2025, spotlighting the artists, songs, and collaborations that, in his view, defined the country’s music scene over the past year.
Known for its candid opinions and occasional controversy, the list praises innovation and professionalism while critiquing what Bebe Cool describes as a declining industry trend. In his introductory remarks, Bebe Cool reflected on 2025 as an “action-packed” year that offered both challenges and creative breakthroughs.
He noted improved creativity compared to 2024, with younger artists pushing boundaries and expanding audience tastes. However, he emphasized the need for outstanding individuals to guide the industry’s direction.
Topping the list is Bebe Cool himself, who hailed his album Break The Chains as the standout project of the year. The album, featuring tracks like “Hidden Agendas,” “Cheque” (feat. Joshua Baraka), “Home,” “Motivation,” “Circumference,” “Hips Don’t Lie,” and “Rectangle Love,” embraces global Afrobeat and Afro-tech sounds.
Bebe Cool praised his own bold reinvention and the decision to release a full album, arguing it restores professionalism to Ugandan music.
“An artist without a professional album will never fully be considered a professional artist,” he stated, urging peers to prioritize albums over singles for greater global reach and longevity.
Rising star Joshua Baraka earned high praise for his single “Wrong Places” from the 12-track album Juvie. Bebe Cool called him the “undisputed best young talent in terms of global sound,” highlighting his international performances and fearless approach in a trend-dominated market.
For the first time, Elijah Kitaka was named Bebe Cool’s “best local male Ugandan artist,” recognized for tracks like “Ekyange,” “Daily Bundle,” and “Go Remix” (feat. Karole Kasita). The Gagamel boss lauded Kitaka’s humility, creativity, unique voice, and backing from Swangz Avenue, predicting global success soon.
Other notable mentions include:
- Dax Vybz for “At My Door” and “Good Idea” (feat. Elijah Kitaka), credited for independent hustle and talent.
- Kapeke for “Kaba,” praised for catchy hooks, dance appeal, and stage presence.
- Lydia Jazmine for her 16-track album The One & Only, appreciated for elevating female artists through album investment.
- FYNO for “Che Che,” a long-overdue personal hit.
- Vinka for the “beautifully executed” “Lala.”
- Ray G for “Ow’ishe,” building on prior success.
- Uncle Chumi for “Gwokute Gobba.”
- Sheebah Karungi for her comeback effort post-maternity leave.
- Tracy Melon as an emerging trending name to watch.
In the collaborations category, Bebe Cool’s top pick was “See You Tonight” by Cindy Sanyu and Omega 256, calling it a potential song of the year contender alongside Joshua Baraka’s “Wrong Places” and Elijah Kitaka’s “Ekyange.”
Other standout collabs included “Kapati” (Alien Skin & Naxx), “Wanula” (Ava Peace & Temperature), “Ekisododo” (Lil Pazo & Latinum), and “Misolo Boka” (Mad King ft. Nandor Love).
Wrapping up, Bebe Cool expressed concern over the industry’s decline, stating 2025 was weaker than 2024, which lagged behind previous years. He attributed this to laziness, low confidence, excuses, and drug abuse, contrasting it with his own early hustle in tougher times.
Referencing opportunities like social media and government support, he spotlighted Joshua Baraka as a model for exploiting modern advantages.
“With the moral authority of my longevity and status, I mean no disrespect—only a call to all stakeholders to raise the bar,” he concluded, congratulating listed artists and wishing fans a Happy New Year 2026.
The Bebe Cool List continues to spark debate in Uganda’s vibrant music community, celebrating achievements while pushing for greater ambition on the global stage.