By Dean Lubowa Saava & Jako David Waluluka
In an unprecedented move, singer Winnie Nakanwagi aka Winnie Nwagi has severed ties with Swangz Avenue, the renowned music record label that catapulted her to fame. This development comes after weeks of speculation about the status of their professional relationship.
According to sources close to the singer, Nwagi has instructed all booking agents to cease any transactions with Swangz Avenue, effective immediately. Instead, she has directed them to channel all bookings and payments through her company.
This significant shift in her business operations confirms rumours of a rift between Nwagi and Swangz Avenue. The singer, known for her captivating stage presence and hit singles, had been an integral part of the Swangz Avenue family since her debut.
By taking control of her bookings and finances, Nwagi is asserting her independence and paving the way for a new chapter in her music career. This strategic move is expected to grant her greater creative freedom and autonomy in managing her professional endeavors.
As news of her departure from Swangz Avenue spreads, fans and industry insiders alike are eager to see how this development will impact Nwagi’s music and overall career trajectory. One thing is certain, however – Winnie Nwagi is poised to take the reins of her career, and her loyal fan base is eagerly anticipating what’s to come.
The Drop dead curvy Winnie Nwagi who initially was a star performer at the Coca-Cola Rated Next Competition, later joined Swangz Avenue in 2014, has been such a great success releasing hits after hits; Katono Katono, Musawo, Kano Koze, Embeera, Jangu, Matala, Kibulamu, Magic, Detergent among several others.
Known for her seductive gyrations on stage, Nwagi is also known for her unpredictable temperament that many a fan and promoter have fallen victim to.
With allegations of her desire to partake in alcohol laced with illicit drugs, the talented singer always kept her bosses guessing on what her next mood the following day would be after a performance.
This notwithstanding her work ethic was admired by many, though she has consistently shared her discontent with her immediate bosses Benon Mugumbya and Julius Kyazze.
Many a time, the trio is said to have engaged in arguments over payment and that Nwagi, has always threatened to throw in the towel.
She has also allegedly accused Kyazze’s wife Sandra, of undermining her stature at the label.
Nwagi, during her stupors, has often also alleged that Swangz Avenue runs a un official insider moonlighting web that includes her bosses, managers, and top female singers both signed and those that are managed on a partial contract basis.
One of the female managers famed for this business is one Jayla.
Several other artists have broken ranks with Swangz Avenue, including; Irene Ntale, Zulanda, and manager Joel among others.
It should be noted that Swangz Avenue has withered and survived such scenarios including the one of Sarah Nampijja aka Sera of the “contagious” song fame who died after eating a cake which was allegedly served to her by one of the bosses whilst travelling from a burial ceremony in Masaka.
In our next issue, we will be revisiting this file and many more Ugandan Musicians who died under unclear circumstances.
Watch this space
