Eddy Kenzo, born Edrisah Musuuza, is nominated for a 2023 Grammy Award for Best Global Music Performance for his song Gimme Love, performed with American singer Matt B. Facing fierce competition from artists like Nigeria’s Burna Boy, Kenzo’s nomination is a testament to his remarkable journey from a challenging childhood to international acclaim.
Born to a Ugandan father and a Rwandan mother who lost family in the 1994 genocide, Kenzo was orphaned before age five, growing up on the streets of Uganda selling water.
“I come from a very poor background,” “I suffered a lot, had some difficult times.” he added
From Struggle to Success
Kenzo’s path to fame was fraught with obstacles, including struggles to get his music played by DJs. His perseverance paid off with his 2014 hit Sitya Loss, which went viral, and his 2015 BET Award for Best International Act.
Now a celebrated artist, Kenzo sees his success as a beacon of hope. “When people see me today, they say to themselves anyone can do what I did,” he said.
His story inspires others from underprivileged backgrounds, proving that talent and determination can overcome adversity.
Giving Back to the Community
Haunted by his early struggles, Kenzo is committed to helping others. He has rented a house for 70 children in Uganda’s ghettos, where they learn dance, music, and football while receiving guidance on discipline and life skills.
“I decided to go and meet children in the ghettos, teach them different artistic disciplines and give them advice,” he said. His efforts aim to empower the next generation, offering them opportunities he lacked as a child.
Grammy Hopes and Cultural Pride
A Grammy win would be an honor for Kenzo, his fans, and Ugandan culture, he says, but he has already earned widespread respect back home for his resilience and philanthropy.
Regardless of the outcome at the 2023 Grammy Awards, Kenzo’s journey from street vendor to global music star continues to inspire, showing that “wonderful things can happen, even for people from less privileged families.”
