Perceptions of Kadongo kamu music among the youths at Makerere University

Abstract

This study examined how the youth at Makerere University perceive Kadongo kamu music. Kadongo kamu is one of the music genres of the Baganda (Central Uganda) and adopts a storytelling style to address topical issues. The music is also characterized by dramatization, as seen in the music videos. As a result of the proliferation of new music genres, such as Hip-hop, rap, and Amapiano, the latter originating from townships of South Africa, how do the youth at Makerere University perceive Kadongo kamu music? I conducted a qualitative study with fieldwork at Makerere University, employing a range of data collection methods. These methods included interviews, observation, participant observation, documentary analysis, literature review, and attending performances featuring Kadongo kamu music. Furthermore, the researcher used the internet and photography to gather information about Kadongo kamu and how this music is perceived by the youth at Makerere University. My research revealed that youths at Makerere University have limited knowledge of the Kadongo kamu music genre, including its first pioneers, the nature of music they composed, and contemporary Kadongo kamu musicians. As such, they do not appreciate this music. I conclude that although most youth at Makerere University do not appreciate Kadongo kamu music, some of them do listen to it, thereby appreciating the message it conveys. For example, they have appreciated the fact that one needs to work hard to attain success, as embedded in some Kadongo kamu songs. Moreover, these youths gain an understanding of how to prevent diseases such as HIV/AIDS. Lastly, they learn about Luganda, the native language of the Baganda people (Central Uganda).