On the fateful morning of February 1st, 2018, the world lost an artist and a poet of the streets. The untimely demise of Radio reverberated across continents, touching hearts and minds that had been influenced by his activism and musical talents.
He succumbed to severe head injuries following a bar brawl in Entebbe days after celebrating his 35th birthday. Loved and loathed, Radio was a paradox.
He was a universally known and prolific musical icon, so productive during his brief career that he scooped Uganda's first nomination in the BET awards.
Mowzey Radio and his musical partner Weasel were nominated in the category of "Best International Act Africa" at the BET Awards in 2013. This recognition was for their chart-topping single "Magnetic," gaining significant popularity since its release in 2012.
While Kampala streets bore witness to the death of Radio at just 35, they also became the hub of countless conspiracy theories. Some whispered about rivalries, while others hinted at a larger setup. However, among the speculations, one fact remained: Radio's influence was far more significant than the life he lived.
Inside Radio's controversial public image was a history rich with activism and a legacy of challenging the established order.
Radio's music was an authentic reflection of his experiences, with rhymes molded by cultural and socio-political affairs.
Those close to him describe Radio as a warrior who stood for the truth and never changed his opinion on anything he believed in. However, he was also a loose-lipped and violent character with countless run-ins with the law and rivals – a magnetic artist showcasing his versatility with musical prowess coupled with poetic justice.
One defining incident occurred in 2015 when Radio, together with Weasel and their team, fought their former manager Jeff Kiiwa at Club Amnesia, requiring police intervention to cool the situation.
During my high school years, my friends and I idolized him. We loved his swagger, aggression, and persona. We'd rap the explicit lyrics to his infamous love tracks like "Where Are You," "The Whistle Song," "Obudde," "Juice Juice," among others.
Despite his wild controversies, what Radio is best remembered for is his music. In attempting to list his best songs across his extensive catalog, I inevitably excluded some incredible music. But that's how lists go. I hope this provides a solid view of the best songs of Radio's career.
- Bread and Butter
- Zuena
- Mr. DJ
- Enyimba Zomukwano
- Magnetic
- Jenipher
- Where Are You
- Talk and Talk
- Tabula Edagala
- Leesu
- Obudde
- Engule
- Ntwalako Out
- Mbagaliza Kweyagala
- Lwaki Tokula
- Mukama Nyogela Amanyi
- Whistle Song
- Gude Gude
- Tabula Nange
- Mary Jane
- Kintu