Eddie Sendi, a prominent music critic in Uganda's entertainment industry, recently shared his candid opinions on local artists' performances. At the weekly event "Shades of Kampala," hosted by media personality Mr. Henrie at The Villa in Bukoto, Kampala, Sendi expressed disappointment with singer Ava Peace's performance. According to Sendi, Peace resorted to lip-synching to the DJ's music instead of performing live with the band, which fell short of his expectations.
Sendi, known for his straightforward and often tough critiques, didn't mince words. He even suggested that Ava Peace should consider stepping away from singing altogether. During his appearance on the "Talk and Talk Show" on Saturday, May 18, he announced his intention to advise certain artists to exit the music industry, starting with Peace.
This isn't the first time Sendi has made waves with his opinions. In late 2023, during a publicized disagreement between artists Ray G and Azawi, Sendi weighed in decisively. He labeled Ray G a "leech" and criticized his music. Additionally, he advised Ray G to improve his dress code to better align with the image of a star. Sendi's comments reflect his belief that Ray G's most significant achievements in the industry were his collaborations with other artists, such as "Yele" with Geosteady, "Yoya" with Levixone, and the hit "Omusheshe" with Spice Diana.
Sendi's remarks have sparked discussions within the Ugandan music scene, highlighting ongoing debates about performance standards and artists' public expectations. As the industry continues to evolve, the voices of critics like Eddie Sendi play a significant role in shaping the narrative around music and performance in Uganda.
Eddie Sendi has been a fixture in the Ugandan music industry for years. His journey began in the 1990s when he formed the band Emittoes before moving to the UK to pursue studies. Upon his return, he delved into artist management and eventually became a music critic. His forthright style and willingness to challenge industry norms have made him a respected, if sometimes controversial, figure.
Ava Peace, on the other hand, is a young artist who has quickly made a name for herself in the Afro Pop and Dancehall genres. Despite her youth, she has shown determination and has already collaborated with notable artists like Daddy Andre and Spice Diana. Her single "True Love" has enjoyed success on the charts, marking her as a promising talent in the industry.
The Ugandan music industry is currently experiencing a surge of innovation and creativity. Traditional Ugandan instruments are being incorporated into modern music, and there's a rise in genres like Afrobeat and Dancehall. The industry is also seeing an increase in digital platforms and online entertainment, which are reshaping how artists connect with audiences.
"Shades of Kampala" is an event , offering a platform for artists to showcase their talents. Events like these are crucial for the growth of the industry, providing opportunities for live performances that are essential for artist development.
