Azawi Makes Ghana Connection, Dishes on Collaborations and Ugandan Music Scene

Ugandan musician Azawi is taking the continent by storm. Her recent appearance on Ghana's esteemed 3Music TV was a revelation of Azawi's journey being as captivating as her music, brimming with collaboration, self-discovery, and a deep love for her African roots.

Right from the start, Azawi has embraced collaboration. Her debut album, AFRICAN MUSIC, featured a Ghanaian artiste, hinting at her desire to weave a musical tapestry that transcends borders. This willingness to learn from her neighbors is further exemplified by her Ghanaian adventure. Inspired by her record label, Azawi embarked on a pilgrimage to Ghana, immersing herself in the rich history of Highlife music, a genre that continues to influence modern sounds. The warmth of the Ghanaian people and the infectious energy of their music scene ignited a creative fire within her.

Back in Uganda, Azawi found herself amidst a thriving music industry. The scene, though competitive, is marked by a playful camaraderie, with artistes using music as a friendly battleground to exchange lyrical jabs. This spirit of community fuels the rise of fresh talent like Joshua Barak and Kohenjeis, who stand shoulder-to-shoulder with established Ugandan stars.

But Azawi isn't afraid to challenge categories. While the influence of Afrobeats, particularly Nigerian music, is undeniable in Uganda, Azawi champions a more inclusive approach. For her, Ugandan music lovers simply appreciate good music, regardless of its origin. They celebrate the infectious rhythms and pulsating energy that transcends borders. Azawi herself embodies this spirit, refusing to be confined by a single genre. Her music is a beautiful fusion, seamlessly blending Afrobeats with Ugandan touches, creating a sound that is uniquely her own.

Azawi's musical heroes are reveal her panafrican spirit, having Dancehall icons like Chaka Demus and Pliers, with their electrifying song SHAKE AND BALANCE being early inspirations. Internationally, she remains a devoted fan of  artiste Buju Banton. But her heart also beats for Ugandan legends like Radio and the late Mose Radio. These artistes, along with countless others from across the continent, serve as guiding lights on her musical path.

This love for collaboration extends far beyond her heroes as Azawi thrives on working with other artistes. Back home in Uganda, she's teamed up with a diverse range of musicians, including the open-minded producer ADK, known for welcoming creative input from his collaborators. Fik Fameica, a rising star from the Ugandan underground scene, and the talented ISO, who are just a few of the names that have graced Azawi's musical journey.

But her collaborative spirit doesn't stop at the Ugandan border. Azawi joined forces with Kenyan artiste Ben Sol and the legendary Kenyan boyband Sauti Sol for a project titled VIBE. The experience of working with these talented musicians, especially the easygoing Ben Sol, was a highlight for Azawi. This cross-border collaboration exemplifies the potential for a unified East African music scene, a scene that celebrates the rich tapestry of sound woven across the region.

Azawi's story is more than just about music. It's a celebration of African culture and the unifying power of artistic expression. Her openness to new influences, her unwavering commitment to collaboration, and her dedication to exploring her own roots serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring musicians across the continent and her journey is far from over. With her infectious enthusiasm and collaborative spirit, she is poised to become a major force, not just in Uganda or East Africa, but on the global music scene.