Jamaican dancehall superstar Dexta Daps, famed for his smooth lyrics, high-energy performances, and magnetic stage presence, has left a lasting impression on Uganda. His debut visit to Africa included a spectacular performance at the Noise Nation Festival in Kampala, where he thrilled fans with his hit tracks and unmatched charisma. But Dexta Daps didn’t stop at the stage—he used his time in Uganda to immerse himself in the local music scene, recording two collaborations with some of the country’s most talented artists.
While in Kampala, Dexta Daps made his way to two of Uganda’s premier recording studios: Talent Africa’s TAG Studios and Swangz Avenue, both known for nurturing some of the region’s biggest musical talents. At TAG Studios, he joined forces with Beenie Gunter, a prominent figure in Uganda’s dancehall scene, known for hits like Pon Mi and Olina Work. Their collaboration is expected to merge their distinct dancehall styles into a track that fans on both sides of the Atlantic will appreciate.
At Swangz Avenue, Dexta Daps worked with two more Ugandan stars—Winnie Nwagi, an award-winning singer celebrated for hits like Musawo and Everything, and Elijah Kitaka, a multi-talented artist known for his unique blend of Afrobeat and soulful melodies. Their studio session resulted in another eagerly anticipated song that promises to capture the essence of Uganda’s vibrant sound fused with Dexta Daps’ signature style.
Speaking about his experience in Uganda, Dexta Daps expressed deep appreciation for the warmth and talent he encountered. “This Uganda tour will always have a special place in my heart as it was my first time in Africa. The people, the vibes, and the hospitality were unmatched. I felt it was important for me to record with some Ugandan artists. I was happy to meet these amazing, talented artists from Uganda,” he shared.
Dexta Daps, whose real name is Louis Grandison, is renowned worldwide for hits like Shabba Madda Pot, Call Me If, and 7 Eleven. His music blends elements of reggae, dancehall, and R&B, creating a versatile sound that has won him a global fan base. Over the years, he has collaborated with international heavyweights such as Spice, Bounty Killer, and Alaine, cementing his status as a dancehall icon.
His collaborations in Uganda signal a growing recognition of the country’s music industry on the international stage. For Beenie Gunter, Winnie Nwagi, and Elijah Kitaka, these projects are a chance to gain wider exposure while showcasing the richness of Ugandan music. Fans are eagerly awaiting the release of these tracks, which are expected to be game-changers for Afro-Caribbean music collaborations.
Beyond the music, Dexta Daps’ visit to Uganda highlights the power of cross-cultural exchange in the global music industry. By embracing the diversity of Uganda’s sounds and talents, he has set a precedent for future collaborations between African and Caribbean artists. For Uganda, this visit underscores the country’s potential as a hub for music and culture, sparking excitement about what lies ahead for its thriving industry.
