By Alex Don
Ugandan music icon Bebe Cool has come under fire from fellow artists and fans following controversial remarks he made about controlling media airplay — and he isn’t backing down.
The controversy began last week during a TikTok live session, where Bebe Cool claimed he had strong ties with top media executives and could influence which songs get played on radio and TV. The comments sparked outrage within the music community, with many accusing him of arrogance and attempting to monopolize the industry.
In response to the backlash, several artists voiced their concerns, accusing Bebe Cool of using his influence to suppress rising talent and manipulate the media landscape. Social media was abuzz with criticism, with many calling for more fairness and transparency in the industry.
Unfazed by the outcry, Bebe Cool has now fired back, branding his critics as “slow thinkers” who misunderstood his message.
“I didn’t say I control the media. I said I have relationships — that’s a result of years of hard work and consistency,” Bebe Cool clarified in a follow-up statement. He urged fellow artists to focus on improving their craft and making smart financial choices instead of engaging in what he termed “petty debates.”
Despite the clarification, many in the music fraternity remain unconvinced. Critics argue that his statements reflect a deeper issue of gatekeeping in Uganda’s entertainment industry, where access to airplay can make or break a career.
The debate continues to rage on, with fans and artists alike calling for a more level playing field where talent, not influence, determines success.
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