Model and actress Doreen Kabareebe sparked a heated debate on social media after she compared TikTok sensation Tenge Tenge to three of Uganda's most prominent musical icons: Eddy Kenzo, Chameleon, and Bebe Cool.
In a tweet shared recently, Kabareebe revealed an unexpected encounter with American youths who were curious about Tenge Tenge's presence in Uganda. She recounted how they showed her his TikTok videos and inquired about his Ugandan roots. Kabareebe's response to their curiosity raised eyebrows as she boldly claimed that Tenge Tenge's influence surpassed that of the trio consisting of Eddy Kenzo, Chameleone, and Bebe Cool combined.
This statement ignited a flurry of reactions across social media platforms, with fans and followers expressing a wide range of opinions. Some hailed Kabareebe for recognizing the growing influence of digital platforms like TikTok in shaping contemporary music culture. They argued that Tenge Tenge's meteoric rise on TikTok indeed signified a new era in Ugandan entertainment, transcending the traditional boundaries set by established artists.
However, others vehemently disagreed with Kabareebe's assessment, viewing it as an exaggeration and undermining the longstanding contributions of Eddy Kenzo, Chameleon, and Bebe Cool to Uganda's music industry. Many fans of the aforementioned artists pointed out their extensive discographies, international recognition, and numerous accolades as evidence of their unparalleled impact on Ugandan music.
Eddy Kenzo, known for hits like "Sitya Loss" and "Stamina," has garnered widespread acclaim, including a BET Award for Best International Act. Chameleon, with his versatility and longevity in the industry, has cemented his status as a cultural icon, while Bebe Cool's influence extends beyond music into activism and philanthropy.
Despite the controversy, Tenge Tenge's rapid ascent on TikTok cannot be ignored. With his catchy tunes and engaging dance moves, he has amassed a sizable following not only in Uganda but also among international audiences
