Most of the suffering I experience as a person in some way or form is rooted in having to endure the loneliness of being misunderstood; not because I was inarticulate or incoherent in the presentation of ideas, but because almost all my expression is steeped in cross cultural references stretched over centuries, relating to Charles Dickens, Matt Healy, and Paulo Kafeero in the same breath sometimes, but coming up in a conversation with work mates at Alchemist or with family over dinner.
To that, add the convolution of generational and subjective distinctions based on the individual and diverse complexity of human beings; and suddenly the strength and determination to stand by your self-concept in one of the most possible superlative realities present in a post-colonial hybrid context like Uganda. It becomes a more than apparent need.
The temptation to conformity and yes, even self-betrayal in relation to this struggle is something that I cannot overstate and maybe as a Ugandan artist you relate to this?
This is why I must always and indeed, I religiously endeavor to support diversity in whatever I do. “What is missing?” “What can be done better?” “Who can be represented too?” “Who else should I invite to the proverbial party?”
These are some of the questions that determine a lot in my contribution to others and society because the truth is, every human has a different “face”, and each “face” deserves to be celebrated for its contribution. So, hear me clearly, it is not diversity for diversity’s sake, but representative diversity that makes another 15 year old feel less weird for writing their angsty teenage songs in the privacy of their bedroom because there is another Ugandan, someone like them, doing something they want to be doing.
God only knows how much so many artists need that- to be seen in their difference and applauded in their effort to impact and widen what Ugandan music can be for generations to come deliberately or subconsciously.
Today, I celebrate an artist that goes by the moniker “LOWENNA”.
As are most of the artists and creatives I share about on here, in the dynamic of music, where individuality and authenticity are prized, emerging artist Lowenna stands out as a breath of fresh air. With her distinct style and vulnerable vocal expression, she is ready to make her mark on the Ugandan music scene, whether she intended to or not, because she already has.
Like most relatable artists, Lowenna’s journey as an artist is deeply rooted in her personal experiences and her unwavering passion for music, drawing inspiration from her own journey, emotions, and thoughts. Music has always been her chosen medium to express herself authentically.
It is this deep connection between her personal experiences and musical expression that gives her songs a heartfelt and intrinsically relatable quality. From an early age, Lowenna found solace in singing along to the tunes of her favorite Disney Channel shows as the words and melodies resonated awakening a longing to emulate the captivating voices she related to. As she honed her skills and began to recognize her own vocal abilities, her love for music grew. Singing became more than just a pastime; it became her ultimate joy and a means of self-expression.
She dedicated hours to practicing and refining her craft, exploring various genres, and discovering her unique sound. Although to her, her earliest attempts may not have mirrored the professionalism of seasoned artists, she possessed an innate ability to discern what it was she needed to learn from gradually honing her craft and discovering her unique timbre.
One of Lowenna’s recent releases, “Somebody to Love” has garnered attention where it really matters; in authentic and unadulterated conversations about new and amazing music to relate to because of its refreshing and distinctive sound.
This enchanting composition stands as a testament to her artistic courage and willingness to explore uncharted sonic territories.
Although she acknowledges that the song differs from the mainstream Ugandan sound, she did not actually intentionally set out to create a distinct sound. Her musical influences span across genres and cultures, encompassing western and Ugandan music as a well as the occasional exposure to French music; the result being a natural fusion of an unnatural mixture of sound and culture creating a sound that resonates with her artistic sensibilities.
Some of these sensibilities include her artistic vision to create music that accompanies people through significant moments in their lives, providing solace, inspiration, and empowerment. She recognizes the profound impact that music has had on her own transformative experiences and aims to share that same emotional connection with her audience. Her ultimate goal is for her music in the special way it is expressed because of what it is inspired by, to be recognized and celebrated worldwide.
She envisions herself establishing powerful and affecting platforms to inspire Ugandan females to go for what they believe in. In this way, Lowenna shares with all who would care to listen, an intimate reflection of her own transformative convictions that fuel why she sets out and sets out confidently to create that which transcends mere entertainment and serves as a guiding light of affirmation during profound moments of personal growth.
In a nation brimming with cultural richness and diversity, Lowenna stands as a shining example of the vibrant tapestry that emerges from the fusion of indigenous and global influences.
Sometimes, if not most times, it is not realized that the legacy of colonization while riddled with painful history and cultural suppression, has also paved the way for hybridity and a cross-cultural pollination. It is within this space of intermingling tradition that Lowenna’s music finds its roots.
As Lowenna continues to carve her own path, she is intentional in carrying this legacy as expressed in today’s hybrid culture. She realizes that this legacy empowers her to push boundaries, challenge norms and create music that defies categorization.
Through her sultry, singer/songwriter-esque sound, she is essentially dismantling preconceived notions and opening doors for the new wave to feel less alone in their efforts to rise and make their mark on the world stage.
I know so many Ugandan artists that have asked themselves whether they can embrace Ugandan heritage and at the same time fearlessly embrace the influences of global musical community, however eclectic.
Lowenna is here, standing as a beacon of hope for inspiration shouting in the low whispering tones of her music for you to stand up and celebrate how the diversity outside our borders shapes us too as Ugandan artists.
Go listen to Lowenna and make some lisaach about how there were no boundaries to begin with.
So what excuse are you left with, Oh Ugandan artist?
The sky can’t be the limit anymore.
The sky can’t be the limit anymore because you see, there is no sky.
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