Music Star Eddy Kenzo has been nominated for the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, a major international accolade.
Edrisah Kenzo Musuuzah, professionally known as Eddy Kenzo, is a Ugandan singer, music executive, the president and founder of Uganda National Musicians Federation and a member of Big Talent Entertainment. He made his breakthrough after the release of his single Stamina.
The Recording Academy nominated Kenzo in the best African music performance category for his song “Hope & Love,” a collaboration with Iranian-Swedish artist Mehran Matin. The nomination marks a significant moment for Uganda’s creative industry.
The announcement follows a strong showing for other top-tier artists. Kendrick Lamar leads the field with nine nominations, while Lady Gaga received seven. Bad Bunny made history as the first Spanish-language artist to earn nominations in the major categories of album, record and song of the year.
Kenzo’s nomination underscores a broader trend of the global music industry increasingly recognizing African artists. The same category features prominent artists from Nigeria and South Africa, reflecting a shift in music industry dynamics.
The song “Hope & Love” blends Afrobeats rhythms with African pop sensibilities and has become one of Uganda’s most notable international entries in recent years. The nomination has generated excitement locally, with industry insiders hailing it as a milestone for Ugandan creatives.
As voting commences and the winner will be revealed at the ceremony in Los Angeles on February 1, 2026, all eyes are on whether Kenzo’s nod signals a sustained presence for Uganda in global music awards.
For the local music scene, Kenzo’s recognition may serve as both a catalyst and reminder: that while international accolades raise profiles, the underlying work of infrastructure, mentorship and opportunity remains essential to converting recognition into long‑term industry growth.
