Popular music production in Mbarara City : contextualization, adaptation and personalization by music producers

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the pivotal role of music producers in shaping Uganda's popular music landscape, focusing on Mbarara City. Through narrative, in-field, and out-of-field analysis, we investigated the creative processes, collaborative dynamics, and challenges faced by music producers. Our research participants included six music producers (Instrumento, Divo Beats, Hero Beats, Drizzy Beats, Robross, and Mk Craizy) and three artists (Mk Craizy, Robross, and Eno Miles). The findings highlight the significance of music producers in Uganda's music industry, unveiling challenges such as limited access to resources, inadequate training, copyright infringement, and limited marketing platforms. The study also identifies potential solutions, including strategic partnerships, capacity-building initiatives, and policy reforms. This research contributes to the understanding of music production in Uganda, informing strategies to support the growth and development of the music industry. The study's recommendations have implications for music producers, industry stakeholders, policymakers, and future research.