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Breaking Barriers with Beats: Unleashing the Musical Magic of Ugandan Artist MAUIMØON
With a loyal fan base that trusts in his artistic vision and adores his flawless execution, Ugandan artist MAUIMØON has carved a lane for himself in the music industry.
He stays consistently true to his art, pushing boundaries and norms with his innovative approach. His music transcends borders, resonating with audiences worldwide.
We caught up with MAUIMØON to find out his artistic journey, influences, his impact on Africa’s Alté scene and recognition as the first artist featured in Apple Music’s Up Next program in East Africa.
How would you describe your sound?
I would describe my current sound as a mix of Altè & Afro-Fusion music. I like creating music that mixes R&B and African rhythms but also like to be versatile to explore other genres and find ways to making it recognisable to my audience.
How did you get started in the music industry, and what were some of your earliest influences?
It started in University when I was studying music production in London. My University had a lot of connections to people working in the industry that they would introduce students to. It helped me work with different managers, labels and artists and these connections grew when I moved to Canada.
Some of my earliest influences are Brandy, Missy Elliot, Pharrell, Timbaland, Usher just to name a few.
What inspired you to transition from being a producer to becoming a singer and songwriter?
I originally started off as a singer-songwriter, I used to be in the choir when I was younger. Always had a love for singing and the choir really helped transform my voice. I then kept using Youtube beats for my music until I decided to become a producer myself to craft the sound I was looking for.
How does your music reflect experiences growing up and living in Uganda?
When I come up with ideas for my music I rarely draw from the experiences I have had growing up. It is a combination of music I have listened to since I was young, and then scenarios and concepts that I create with my real life experiences as the trigger. I like working this way because it helps me think outside my own experience and pushes my creativity
What does it mean to be chosen as the first artist featured in Apple Music’s Up Next program in East Africa?
I was very honoured to be selected for Apple Music Up Next. It felt good to represent my country, community and know that a spotlight is being shown to East Africa because there is so much on offer this side. It also motivated me having my music be recognised and has pushed me to keep creating and focus on what I have been doing.
How has this spotlight with Apple Music been, as an opportunity and exposure for your art and of course the latest album?
It has been a great opportunity connecting me to different artists that now have me on their radar. Different producers that I am now working on collaborations with and other opportunities to help get my music to a bigger audience.
How has your music evolved over time, and what can new fans expect from your debut album?
My music has evolved dramatically, I started out creating hip-hop music with friends from my high school. It was very early stages and was clear to anyone I was still searching for a sound. I then moved into R&B as I felt my singing was stronger, this is where I started crafting my sound over the years. Once I was comfortable with my sound, I started exploring different genres to stay flexible and offer variety to my audience. Then when I came back home to Uganda I honed in more on creating Altè & Afro-fusion music.
What challenges have you faced as an emerging artist in Uganda, and how have you overcome them?
Most challenges I have faced is gaining visibility from different outlets that primarily focus on West and South African music. I have been able to overcome this by focusing on my craft and being consistent in my releases and letting the music speak for itself. That has expanded my network and helped me meet people who can help me take on those challenges.
What role do you think technology and social media have played in helping you gain recognition for your music?
They play[ed] a big part in connecting new audiences to my music. From having my project shared by my own community to reach their mutuals or my supporters sharing to their own communities, to dancers from across the world sending me videos to share on Instagram — all these things have helped gain recognition for my music.
How do you hope to use your platform as a musician to promote positive change and social awareness in Uganda and beyond?
I hope to use my platform to strengthen the music industry in East Africa and create opportunities for all East Africans to showcase their talents, skills and help put more of a spotlight on East African creatives.
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