Zex Bilangilangi warns Vyroota, An-Unknown against singing 'depressing' songs

On Wednesday, June 12, during an appearance on Bukedde TV2's Vibe Mix show, singer Zex Bilangilangi, whose real name is Tadeo Mayega, discussed the impact of love songs on listeners in the current economic climate.

“Musicians like An Known and Vyroota, who often sing emotional and melancholic love songs, are not addressing the needs of their audience, particularly those facing hardships. I suggest that people dealing with significant stress and problems, such as the residents of Nansana (a city suburb) whose houses have been demolished, need vibrant and uplifting music to alleviate their stress," Zex said.

He said An-known sounds like he's crying in his songs, which "I believe only adds to people's stress rather than reducing it."

"I advise these musicians to create more positive and energetic music that resonates with the daily struggles of the local population. This shift will not only help their audience, but also revive their declining popularity and bookings," Nalinda singer Zex said.

He reasoned that music deeply affects listeners' emotions.

"While melancholic songs can provide solace to some, they can also amplify stress for others, especially those already burdened with significant life challenges. Uplifting and energetic music can serve as a form of therapy, offering a temporary escape and a boost in mood for listeners facing adversity.  Understanding the audience's current emotional and social state is crucial. In regions or communities experiencing hardship, there's a greater need for music that provides relief and joy. Music that resonates with the daily experiences and struggles of its listeners tends to be more impactful and appreciated. Artistes who can adapt to the needs of their audience are more likely to maintain or increase their popularity," Zex stated.

He noted that the 'declining' interest in An-Known and Vyroota's music could be attributed to their failure to meet the emotional needs of their listeners.

"Artistes who create music that appeals to a broader and more relatable audience are more likely to secure more bookings and performance opportunities unlike An-Known. Musicians who can diversify their style and address various emotional needs through their music demonstrate versatility and can sustain their careers better. While it's important to address the needs of the audience, maintaining artistic integrity and personal expression is also vital. Finding a balance between these aspects can be challenging but rewarding. For artistes like An Known and Vyroota, considering the immediate needs and emotional states of their audience might not only help in reviving their popularity, but also contribute positively to the community's well-being. Music has the power to heal, uplift, and bring joy, and striking the right chord with the audience is key to any musician's success,” Zex said.

Zex hails from Kamwokya, a slum in Kampala, where he grew up. From a young age, he was passionate about using his musical talent to bring about positive change among the disadvantaged in Kampala.

His career took off at the age of 17, and he quickly gained recognition not only for his musical talent, but also for his activism. Zex has been actively involved with various charities aimed at improving the lives of people in the ghettos of Kampala.
A pivotal moment in Zex's career was when he participated in a talent search organised by Bobi Wine, a musician and political activist.

This encounter led to Zex joining Bobi Wine's Fire Base Crew, a music label known for its focus on edutainment and producing positive, inspiring music.

Within the crew, Zex holds a high-ranking position, and he is affectionately referred to by Bobi Wine as the "ghetto prime minister."

Through his music and activism, Zex has emerged as a role model for the youth in Uganda, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. His journey from the slums to becoming a respected artiste and activist has inspired many young people to pursue their dreams despite challenging circumstances.

What An-Known says about Zex Bilangilangi's comments 
In an interview with Bukedde TV2's Vibe Mix show on Thursday, June 13, An-Known asked  Zex to confront him directly rather than speaking behind his back.

"While Zex refers us as 'crying artistes,' our fans enjoy our music genre. Zex perceives our style as 'crying', but it is actually R&B music, a style loved and supported by our audience. Despite any criticism, my music continues to resonate with fans and brings in revenue," he said.

An-Known asked Zex to to stop his 'negativity'. 

"He should focus on his own pursuits instead of undermining others. I was once labelled a 'COVID-19 artiste' during the lockdown, but I continued to succeed and I am determined to stay in the industry. Such criticisms stem from selfishness and are an attempt to derail my progress, but I remain undeterred," he stated.

What Vyroota says 
Vyroota responded to Zex's claims of being treated badly with a sharp critique of his abilities and professionalism. 

"Zex is not a musician; he is an artiste who is simply creative enough to come up with organised sounds that entertain people. He has no talent. These untalented, pretentious artistes think that shouting in a song is singing. They will not drag us into their unprofessional form of music. Some of us are in this career because we are talented, and it later turned into our job. If he knows how to sing, why did his first show in Lugogo flop, with nobody showing up except Bobi Wine and people from Kamwokya (a city suburb)? We are busy and do not have time for such critics. He should first learn how to make professional music, and then he can come to us," Vyroota said. 

Vyroota