Ugandan music icon Bebe Cool has officially released ‘Motivation’, the second single off his upcoming album, Break the Chains.
‘Motivation’ is a deeply personal and emotionally charged track that highlights Bebe Cool’s versatility. Unlike his previous releases, where he leaned on reggae and dancehall influences, this song taps into the Afrobeats wave, delivering smooth vocals and an irresistible melody that lingers long after the song ends.
The new single, produced by Bushington and Melanin Boy, showcases Bebe Cool’s evolving sound, blending mellow Afrobeats rhythms with heartfelt lyrics about love, inspiration and devotion.
It has a smooth, minimalistic production, with the chorus celebrating love and devotion, highlighting Bebe Cool’s signature husky vocals and infectious Afrobeats melodies.
Its accompanying music video, directed by South Africa’s Garrick Williams, explores the depth of love beyond appearances or material wealth. The visuals elegantly portray Bebe Cool and his love interest as equal partners, highlighting their deep connection and shared journey in both love and business.
Bebe Cool launched Motivation Week in Uganda, a new annual initiative held in the week following Valentine’s Day. The initiative aims to celebrate motivators across different fields and create meaningful conversations around inspiration and resilience.
During a roundtable discussion featuring various media personalities, Bebe Cool spoke about his journey in music and what keeps him pushing forward. He shared personal stories, including how his motivation led him to travel to Nairobi in pursuit of his dream of becoming a global artist.
He said: “Motivation is key to success no matter your age and level in life. For instance, I have children who are growing up and my peers and I still have more to grow.”
Bebe Cool’s career continues to evolve and his legacy as a groundbreaking artist remains firmly entrenched in the fabric of Uganda and African music.
‘Motivation’ follows the success of ‘Circumference’ – the first single from Break the Chains album. The album is expected to push the boundaries of African music, showcasing a dynamic fusion of sounds and storytelling.
Bebe Cool said: “I can’t wait for everyone to experience the full spectrum of this album and the stories it tells.”
With Break the Chains set for release in 2025, Bebe Cool continues to solidify his legacy as a powerhouse in African music.
Bebe Cool’s musical journey began in 1997 when he made a bold move to Nairobi, where he quickly became one of the first artists to sign with Ogopa Deejays, a pioneering record label in the East African music scene.
With a career spanning over 20 years, Bebe Cool has been instrumental in establishing Uganda’s modern sound. He significantly elevated the social scene in the early 2000s with his captivating voice and sometimes polarising performances and continues to impact the broader East African music landscape.
In 2004, he joined forces with Kenyan reggae and Hip Hop group Necessary Noize, comprising Wyre and Nazizi, to form the award-winning East African Bashment Crew. The supergroup achieved continental success with hits like ‘Africa Unite’, ‘Kube’, ‘This Tune’ and ‘Fire Anthem’ off their debut album ‘Fire’.
He known for hit singles, including ‘Mbozi Za Malwa’ featuring Sauti Sol and ‘Love You Every Day’. His music is described as a unique fusion of reggae, dancehall and Afrobeats.
Some of his albums include Maisha (2004), Fitina (2001) and Go Mama (2015). Throughout his career, Bebe Cool has collaborated with numerous regional and international artists, and he is one of the most decorated Ugandan musicians, having won over 20 awards.
Beyond his musical success, Bebe Cool is also a committed philanthropist and is Uganda’s Tuberculosis Ambassador raising awareness about the disease.
His remix of Philly Lutaaya’s Born in Africa was ranked No. 15 by the BBC during the commemoration of the Organisation of African Unity at 50, cementing his place as an African music legend.
