Bruce Dickson: The Rising Star Illuminating Uganda's Music Scene

[Bruce Dickson/YouTube]

In Uganda's music industry, a rising star by the name of Bruce Dickson Byoona, known simply as Bruce Dickson, has emerged as a luminary. His journey from obscurity to the limelight is a testament to talent, tenacity, and the power of seizing unexpected opportunities.

Dickson's ascent into the musical stratosphere began with an unexpected turn of fate, as he ventured into the world of the Pearl of Africa Star Search. Competing under the moniker ""Omuyiribi,"" he not only secured a spot in the final six but also emerged as the regional champion representing Western Uganda. His story, he shares, is one of passion and divine intervention.

""It was like a platform the Lord had prepared for me to tap my potential,"" he told Sqoop in the past. ""It all started like a joke. Jacinta, my friend from karaoke, referred me to one of the competition organizers, who later helped me enroll through a video recording. The rest is history.""

From a pool of over a thousand contestants, Bruce Dickson's meteoric rise showcased his innate musical prowess and charisma. However, the Pearl of Africa Star Search was more than just a singing competition. It offered contestants a unique blend of experiences, including music mentorship, tourism quizzes, exploration of Uganda's hidden treasures, and engaging TV interviews.

""I grew from 1,000 contestants to the last six in the competition,"" he says. ""I learned a lot about tourism and Uganda's hidden beauty, as well as music. Unlike other competitions, POA Star Search included music mentors, tourism quizzes, traveling to different destinations, and TV interviews. I made networks which are still helping me.""
This transformative journey reshaped Bruce Dickson's perspective on music. 

""Yes, it shaped the way I do music,"" he acknowledges. ""I had never thought of doing music until the POA Star Search. I think musically now.""

One of the defining aspects of Bruce Dickson's musical journey is his versatility. He refuses to be confined to a single genre, expressing that he can ""vibe with any beat you play."" This adaptability has become a hallmark of his artistry, allowing him to connect with a wide and diverse audience.

As his musical career blossomed, Bruce Dickson's aspirations evolved and he switched his mind to leaving a legacy since the first day he released his first album. 
 
Reflecting on his childhood, Bruce Dickson fondly recalls his mother's early recognition of his love for singing. She even offered to enroll him in piano lessons at church after his Primary Seven. However, his passion for football initially took precedence, and while he looks back with some curiosity about the path not taken, he accepts it as part of his journey.

His first job as a teaching assistant at Kawanda Senior Secondary School showcased his intellectual prowess, having been one of those exceptionally bright students who scored 20 points at A-Level. His role was not only to help students understand but also to inspire them.

Beyond his music career, Bruce Dickson wears multiple hats, including a role as a product consultant at Tecno Mobile Uganda. His diverse skill set encompasses marketing and sales consultancy services, as well as procurement. These varied experiences earned him the title ""Omuyiribi"" during the Pearl of Africa Star Search, reflecting his versatility.

When asked what he likes about music, Bruce Dickson's response is heartfelt. 

""Music is healing and expressive. Different feelings can be unleashed through music; love, hate, disappointment, name it. The process of making it there is just amazing. An amazing singer makes me tear.""

However, he doesn't shy away from acknowledging the challenges that come with pursuing a career in commercial music. ""When you decide to go commercial, it is expensive. This comes with a lot of stress when your expectations are not met. However, nobody can stop reggae.""

His biggest regret, he shares, is not starting his music career earlier. Yet, he gracefully accepts that this timing is part of a divine plan. When asked about role models, he cites his big brother Captain Brian Bagonza for his love and selflessness, as well as several musical inspirations, including A Pass, Maurice Kirya, Kenneth Mugabi, John Kay the Writer, IamArtin Pro, and Nessim.

Maintaining a healthy mindset is crucial to Bruce Dickson, who finds solace in singing and blocking out negative energy from the outside world. His resilience and focus have been essential in his journey towards musical stardom.

If given the opportunity to spend a day with anyone in the world, Dickson's choice speaks volumes about his ambition and thirst for knowledge. ""Jay-Z,"" he says, ""I would like to learn from him and to get connections.""

Ultimately, what inspires his songs are the universal themes of love, life, and people. His music resonates with audiences not just in Uganda but far beyond, and as he continues to craft his unique musical narrative, the world eagerly awaits the next chapter in his extraordinary journey.