REMINISCING WITH SHEMY B ON ‘EBIKADDE MU BIPYA’

To date, Mutungo-born rapper, actor, and songwriter Shemy B, known to his homies as Scoba, has been a major force in Ugandan underground hip-hop since 2010.

Who’s Shemy?

Born and raised in Mutungo-Bbiina, the rapper, actor and songwriter grew up with a single mother. After dropping out of a prominent junior soccer academy, Shemy B`s music career began in 2010 when he got interested in freestyle sessions and street battling. Ever since then, he has been significantly contributing to the local Hip-hop fraternity through music and other humanitarian projects. He is the author of albums such as Street Identity, his debut studio album, and Ebikadde Mu Bipya.

“Ebikadde Mu Bipya,” his sophomore album, was released on 31st – August – 2018, solidifying his reputation as a skilled lyricist and artist. The album, nominated for a 2019 Best Hip-Hop Album award, showcases Shemy B’s versatility and mic genius, with tracks ranging from the lyrically hard-hitting “Ssababanda” to the introspective “Webale”, and preaching resilience and perseverance on “Nyikila”.

Synopsis

Shemy B spins a yarn in “Robber” about a notorious hometown figure. This bully-turned-criminal ruled the streets with fear, leaving a trail of stolen goods and broken hearts. Notorious for his fleeting romances, he was even hired by politicians for some underhanded dealings. But even a life of crime couldn’t outrun a spate of bad health, leading to a downfall as swift as his infamous rise. Shemy B then drops a self-assured anthem in “Ssababanda,” literally translating to “The Big Boss.” Fresh off his hip-hop ascent, the artist flexes his newfound status, boasting about luxurious possessions and a collection of trophies (both literal and metaphorical). Despite the braggadocio, clever wordplay and relatable metaphors hold together a surprisingly catchy narrative. He crowns himself the new leader of the scene, firing lyrical shots at rivals while confidently outlining his winning formula. “Ssababanda” is a masterclass in blending braggadocio with wit, proving that even self-promotion can be an art form. After the brash confidence of “Ssababanda,” the artist takes a sharp turn with “Nalulungi,” a heartfelt love ballad. Shedding the braggadocious persona, he serenades the “most beautiful woman.” The song is a departure from the album’s earlier tracks, showcasing the artist’s emotional depth and vulnerability. Gone are the boasts of material possessions; instead, he delivers a passionate ode to love’s transformative power. In “Mubanja,” Shemy B dives into the struggles of pushing hip-hop in the dynamic local Ugandan music market. The track chronicles his trials and tribulations, the sweat and exhaustion poured into his craft. He argues that his dedication to the genre allows him to demand more from it, referencing a law of reciprocity or karma where “where the pains are, is where the gains and respect should lie.” “Mubanja” offers a glimpse into the artist’s work ethic and dedication, showcasing the sacrifices made in pursuit of his passion. This introspective track adds depth and dimension to the album, revealing the struggles that fuel his success. A poignant shift takes place on “Webale,” a track dedicated to the artist’s late father. Webale boasts for heartfelt recollection, the artist remembers his father’s unwavering support during his childhood. Despite his father’s early passing, his influence on the artist’s music is undeniable. The bio reveals how his father fostered his early musical aspirations, providing him with the tools to stand out among his peers. Furthermore, the father’s love for Tanzanian “Tarab” music is credited for shaping the artist’s unique lyrical style and versatility, elements that continue to define his sound.

Conclusion

“Ebikadde Mu Bipya” is praised for its use of contemporary Ugandan slang and soulful vocals by Herbert Sensamba and Akongo. The experience adds to the overall sonic capabilities of the album. The word play, metaphors and bars are out there on a different level. The album’s production boasts collaborations with talented producers like Nase Avatar, Rex Beats, Analytical Al, and the legendary Lyrical G. Ebikadde Mu Bipya is rated as one of the best LugaFlow albums of all time created at Portbell Drive Studio.

Below is its tracklist:

1- Nyikila featuring Man-Son Bulubembe: A collaborative track showcasing Shemy B’s wordplay.

Beat by Nase Avatar, Mixed & Mastered by Nase Avatar, Written by Shemy B and Man-Son

2 — Ssababanda: A powerful track demonstrating Shemy B’s lyrical prowess.

Beat by Nase Avatar, Mixed and Mastered by Nase Avatar, Written by Shemy B and Herbert Ssensamba

3 – Mubanja

Produced by Nase Avatar, Written by Shemy B

4 – Tukasuka

Guitar by Herbert Ssensamba, Mixed and Mastered by Nase Avatar, Written by Shemy B

5 – Nabagamba

Beat by Analytical Alz, Mixed & Mastered by Nase Avatar, Written by Shemy B

6 – Mumanyi Ki