Navio: Why I Took a Music Break After 20 Years

Photo/New Vision]

In the ever-evolving landscape of African hip-hop, one name has remained a constant force to be reckoned with—Daniel Lubwama Kigozi, better known as Navio. As one of the founding members of the iconic hip-hop group Klear Kut, Navio's journey through the world of music has spanned two decades. 

This year, he celebrates this remarkable milestone with a highly anticipated concert at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala. The timing is serendipitous, aligning with the global festivities commemorating 50 years of hip-hop culture.

For Navio, the confluence of events surrounding his 20th year in the music industry is nothing short of miraculous. ""It beats my understanding how everything could have lined up the way it has. 50 years of hip-hop coming in, where I also get invited as one of the few African artistes to represent for the Hennessy event at the Hall Des Lumieres in New York,"" he shares with enthusiasm with Daily Monitor. 

American rapper Nas, who has collaborated with the cognac brand multiple times, joined in the celebration of hip-hop's half-century mark. Navio found himself at the epicenter of this global recognition, standing alongside five other African invitees.

But that's not all—Navio's journey this year has been a whirlwind of recognition and opportunities. ""I got invited to the BET, I got to celebrate 20 years in the music business, all happening this year alone, and this, for me, is a blessing. All those late nights, missing time with my family, wasn't for nothing. Some people have taken notice. I am humbled,"" he remarks.

For an artist who has contributed so much to Uganda's hip-hop culture and the East African music scene, this recognition is a long-overdue tribute to his dedication and talent. Navio's journey has been marked by relentless passion, countless performances, and a commitment to his craft that transcends boundaries.

The upcoming concert at the Sheraton Hotel holds a special place in Navio's heart, as it marks his return to the stage after an eight-year hiatus. The last time he held a concert was in 2016 at the Garden City Rooftop, for his hit song 'Njogereza.' Navio reveals that this break was a conscious choice, driven by a desire to give his family the time he felt he had deprived them of throughout his career.

""I have been working and performing every weekend since 1999. So, in my mind, I needed to take a break, do my thing, and raise my children,"" he reflects. His decision was motivated by the birth of his children, with the first arriving in 2009, coinciding with the release of his song 'Bugumu.' This pause allowed him to savor precious moments with his family, knowing that his music would endure as a lasting legacy.

Hip-hop's enduring presence in Africa has often been a topic of debate, with some artists eventually transitioning to more lucrative genres like Afrobeats. Navio's steadfast commitment to hip-hop has defied this trend. 

""Staying around for long is not only a win for me but for Uganda, East Africa, and the continent at large,"" he asserts proudly. His resilience and persistence have contributed to the genre's lasting relevance and continued growth on the African continent.

To commemorate 50 years of hip-hop, Navio and his team have crafted a unique concert experience. The show will feature two distinct sessions—a live band performance and a DJ session. Acknowledging the pivotal role DJs played in hip-hop's early days, he emphasizes their importance to the genre's development.

The live band session represents a significant departure from conventional hip-hop shows, a testament to Navio's commitment to pushing boundaries and experimenting with his craft. As the world marks half a century of hip-hop culture, Navio is poised to deliver a concert that pays homage to the genre's roots while embracing its vibrant evolution.

His journey through the world of hip-hop is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the transformative impact of family. As he returns to the stage with a renewed sense of purpose, his legacy in Uganda's music scene shines even brighter. In Navio's story, hip-hop culture finds a steadfast advocate, an artist who remains true to his roots while reaching for new heights, captivating audiences with his lyrical prowess and musical artistry.