Former Police AIGP, Asan Kasingye, has stepped up to advise musicians on how to build their wealth. This comes after some of these artists faced humiliation in Gulu during an encounter with OWC chief, Gen. Salim Saleh.
Musicians had developed a pattern of traveling to Gulu to collect substantial amounts of taxpayers’ money for their personal gain. However, Saleh grew tired of this and dismissed them. He even went so far as to publicly criticize veteran singer OS, whose OWC theme song Saleh referred to as “trash” in front of a large crowd.
Despite this, Kasingye, who now owns a Security Guards Company, chose to provide these artists with advice on generating additional income. He pointed out that music in Uganda isn’t as profitable as it is in more developed countries. Thus, a robust copyright law is essential to safeguard the works of creatives.
Moreover, he urged musicians to explore other business ventures to complement their music careers. He suggested avenues such as boutiques and trade, and highlighted agriculture, noting that numerous pastors have thrived in this area.
He also encouraged them to pursue their other legitimate professions. Kasingye cited Silver Kyagulanyi, a well-known musician who is also a practicing lawyer, as a notable example.
Additionally, he recommended that they delve into financial markets after conducting thorough research. He emphasized the importance of cultivating a savings culture, advising them to prioritize saving over their extravagant lifestyles.
To maximize their talents for greater financial gain, he urged them to dismiss non-performing and unscrupulous managers. Musicians could also establish savings cooperatives (SACCOs) among themselves.
Furthermore, he advised them to maintain a respectable lifestyle. Being in the public eye can open doors to several major brands that are willing to pay them substantial amounts. Therefore, they should seize these opportunities. He also cautioned them to limit their begging and reduce excessive chatter on various social media platforms.
Below is his Full Advice:
I know when you talk about musicians, a lot of sentiments abound. This is my 5-cent take on what I think after the Gulu trip. Excuse me if you think I shouldn’t have poked my nose here.
- Music in Uganda doesn’t pay as much as it does in the West or even in Nigeria or RSA. We need a strong patent law to protect their music and pay them decently.
- Musicians should try business alongside their trade, just like many people have done. Set up a clothing line, shop, or boutique, supply foodstuffs to MDAs, operate fishing boats or taxis, etc.
- Agriculture is a good investment. Some pastors have become so rich from this venture. Why not musicians?
- If you have a profession, pursue it too. Silver Kyagulanyi is a good musician and a lawyer. If you’re good at radio, why not pursue it too? Juliana was at Capital during the time she released her hit single “Nabikoowa.” Others are good producers and songwriters. Make this a professional business.
- Join financial markets; buy shares, lend money to the government through Treasury Bills (TBs), but also invest in Unit Trusts (UTs).
- Develop a culture of savings. That means you must trade off the fast life around alcohol, drugs, and women. Renting a flat for 3 million per month when the income is limited is suicidal. I know you have the “celeb” tag and must be seen to reside in upscale areas. Rethink this.
- Now, throw away non-performing managers. How do you start singing at a huge concert and we hear you weren’t paid? No way. Get your side of the bargain before you even shout “jemuliiiiii” at that show. Your money must be in the bank a week before the show.
- Start and develop SACCOs for musicians, producers, songwriters, and those around the industry. Borrow at low interest rates and invest in business.
- Live a decent life. Respect yourselves and others. Dignity in your trade will take you far.
- The entertainment industry can open doors to a big market in entertainment, advertisement, marketing, etc. Grab most of those advertisement spaces, sign on lucrative deals with big companies like MTN, Airtel, and UN agencies like WFP, Refugees, and Women & Children programs. Identify yourselves with these concerns. What stops you from being a champion for hunger alleviation, clean environments, or other causes? Show your true support against hunger, violence, HIV, environmental degradation, poverty, cancer, etc.
Talking too much on TikTok or asking for financial support won’t add much to your lives or those of your loved ones. Happy New Year, and may God bless you.
