The future is bleak for shy music producers

What the report says

The Observer says the role of quiet, behind-the-scenes music producers in Uganda is changing as branding and public visibility become more important. The article describes a long-standing model in which producers earned money mainly by working with newer artistes while relying on veteran acts to generate buzz and hit songs that could bring in more clients. It argues that this approach is being challenged by a more competitive music industry.

The piece points to several producers who have tried to move beyond the studio and become more publicly recognizable. It mentions artistes and producers such as Young John and Pheelz in Nigeria, and Daddy Andre and Bomba in Uganda, as examples of people who have experimented with singing alongside production. The report says balancing both roles can be difficult and does not always lead to success.

As a current example, the article focuses on Nessim Pan Production, also identified as Nessim Mukuza, a Ugandan producer credited with several hit songs since 2011, including work with Goodlyfe, B2C, Rema Namakula and Vyroota. The Observer says he has increasingly appeared in music videos, performed on stage with Vinka, and used social media to show his work. It also highlights Bassi Boi, a younger producer who is said to be taking a door-to-door approach to production, including touring to reach artistes outside Kampala.

The article’s broader point is that producers who remain invisible may struggle to stay relevant as branding, public presence and audience engagement become more central to the business.