Why I Will Always Love Kenya – Jose Chameleone

Ugandan artist Jose Chameleone. Photo/Instagram

By Kinyua Mwangi

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Ugandan artist is undoubtedly an East African favourite and he credits to Uganda and, surprisingly, Kenya.

He considers Kenya an equal home just like Uganda terming it ‘his motherland’. The Valu Valu hitmaker opened up on his everlasting love for Kenya as he turned 45.

The artist, who earlier this week revealed turning 45 years old, has been celebrating at various functions and also through his online platforms.

“Uganda is my Father, Kenya my Mother,” he stated.

Early in 2000, Chameleone moved to Nairobi to pursue his musical dreams.  Fortunately, a hip-hop trio from Kenya had first asked him for a collaboration that didn't work out.

He became friends with Dorotia, a Kenyan who helped him out much by supporting some of his early endeavours and even giving him a daughter.

Chameleone's talent was fostered by Nairobi's thriving music industry, especially the then top music lable Ogopa Deejays.

He teamed up with Bebe Cool, another Ugandan artist and they started recording with Ogopa Deejays. Through this partnership, Chameleone refined his sound and reached a larger audience by fusing Kenyan and Ugandan rhythms.

The fact that Chameleone could sing in English, Swahili, and Luganda increased his popularity throughout East Africa. His status in the music industry was cemented when songs like "Basiiba" and "Shida za Boza" turned into local hits.

Chameleone has released 13 albums in total since the release of his debut album in 2000. Two decades later, his musical demeanour still charms and influences Ugandan music.

He says that he is especially proud that his music inspired a lot of singers in and out of Uganda.