Ugandan singer-songwriter Joshua Baraka has quickly become one of East Africa’s most exciting musical talents. With the release of his latest mixtape, Recess imminent, here are 10 things you should know about this remarkable artist:
1. Humble Beginnings in Bwaise
Joshua was born and raised in Bwaise, a district in Kampala that he describes as “the ghetto,” a place marked by poverty and hardship. Music became his escape from the harsh realities of his environment.
2. A Musical Family
His musical journey started at home. With his father being a pastor and his mother a choir leader, Joshua grew up immersed in music and the church, which greatly influenced his artistic roots.
3. Started Singing at Age 6
Joshua Baraka remembers discovering his passion for music at a young age. He began singing at just six years old, setting the stage for his future career.
4. A Song for His Mother
The first song Joshua ever wrote was dedicated to his mother. However, in a touching and slightly bittersweet twist, he never had the chance to sing it to her, and she never got to hear it.
5. Almost Became a Doctor
Before fully committing to music, Joshua Baraka aspired to become a doctor. After struggling with his A-level exams, he dropped out of school to pursue his musical dreams professionally—a decision that clearly paid off.
6. Cut His Teeth Playing in Bars
As a teenager, Joshua Baraka honed his skills by playing the piano in bars and restaurants. These live performances not only refined his talent but also helped him earn a living during his formative years.
7. Debut EP: “Baby Steps”
In 2021, Joshua Baraka released his debut EP, Baby Steps. The four-track project received critical acclaim in Uganda, with standout tracks like “Belinda” and “Tewekweka” making waves in the local music scene.
8. Multi-Talented Producer
Beyond singing and songwriting, Joshua is also a talented multi-instrumentalist and producer. He produced five out of the seven tracks on his project Growing Pains, showcasing his versatility and deep understanding of music production.
9. Breakthrough with “Nana”
While he had already made a name for himself in Uganda, the 2023 release of “Nana” catapulted Joshua to fame across Africa. The song’s popularity led to a remix featuring African superstars Joeboy, Bien, and King Promise, solidifying his status as a rising star.
10. Anime Enthusiast
When he’s not making music, Joshua enjoys diving into the world of anime. This passion adds another dimension to his personality and creativity, subtly influencing his artistry.
