Don't believe every bad thing said about me - Jose Chameleone

Singer Jose Chameleone has expressed disappointment that people accuse him of many things, which he said he has never done. 

On Friday, June 14, while at H20 Lounge and Restaurant, Kololo in Kampala,  the Basiima Ogenze singer was invited as the guest artiste. During his performance, he  sampled some of his all-time hit songs. Midway the show, he paused to address his critics and supporters alike.

He expressed bewilderment that although they enjoy his music, they celebrate the bad news in his life. 

Chameleone assured the guests that he has been in the music industry for long and is not shaken by any challenges. Instead, he said he is dedicated to guiding others who are interested in professional music, ensuring that the noise on stage and other music-related challenges do not affect them, as he has seen it all.

"I am known for my versatile musical style, which blends Ugandan folk music with reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeat. My numerous hits, including Valu Valu, Wale Wale, and Badilisha, have topped charts and become anthems across East Africa. I am often internationally credited with pioneering the contemporary Ugandan music scene, bringing it from a local to an international stage. My early successes in the 2000s paved the way for future generations of Ugandan artistes. I have proudly influenced many upcoming musicians through my style and success. My ability to constantly reinvent myself and stay relevant in the fast-evolving music industry is a testament to my talent and adaptability," Chameleone said.

 With a career spanning over two decades, he said he has made significant contributions to the growth and global recognition of Ugandan music. He highlighted some key points about his influence and achievements:

"Over the years, I, Jose Chameleone, have received numerous awards, both locally and internationally to mention but a few (Pearl of Africa Music Awards, Tanzania Music Awards, Kisima Music Awards, and All Africa Music Awards). These accolades recognise my contributions to music and my role in promoting Ugandan culture. Beyond music, I, Chameleone, have engaged in various philanthropic activities, using my platform to support community initiatives and address social issues. I am not only a musician or artiste, but a teacher for all seasons, and my fellow Ugandans should be prouder of me than foreigners," he said.

"Uganda, what do I owe you? What else do you want from me? What’s your problem? Can you imagine if you were me, what would you be? I am the only star who is talked about badly and has dirty water poured on me, but I am consistent," Chameleone said.

He then took a did at rising singer Sencere who had filed an assault case against him this June. 

"Imagine an upcoming artiste from nowhere saying I did whatever she said. People, you need to understand and evaluate people’s words before you believe them. These young boys and girls are looking for relevance in the industry and they end up making mistakes. I do not think I am as bad as some people say. At least those who are always near me can witness that. It's not that I make mistakes; I am human, I go wrong, but please, people, let me be. I am now mature enough not to clash words with young people who grew up admiring to be me. I have mentored a lot of stars," Chameleone said.

He emphasised that he loves the Ugandan music industry to the extent of offering a lot of collaborations to all interested artistes to boost their careers.

"Every year, I offer collaborations and at least every two years, I make a new start. If it was not for me, the country would not have King Saha, Yung Mulo, Papa Cidy, Melody, Weasel, Mowzey Radio (late),  AK 47 (late), Pallaso, and many others. I believe that I have done it all. Ugandans do not demand anything more from me. Talk all you want, but I am sure that I am musically talented," Chameleone said.