In this ever evolving landscape of Ugandan hip-hop, The Mith’s name undoubtedly carries immense weight and legacy. Veteran in the game and a respected lyricist, The Mith has consistently used his music to showcase not only his artistry but also his identity as a Ugandan rapper with a Continental mindset. As anticipation builds for the release of the Ugandan Vol 2 (Bali-Okwabwe) later this month, it is worth taking a step back to revisit the foundation he laid with Vol 1, and the promises he seems poised to deliver in the sequel.
A Look Back: The Ugandan Vol 1
Released in 2020, The Ugandan Vol 1 was more than just a project- it was a personal and undeniably a national statement too. With this album, The Mith positioned himself as a vessel for Uganda’s hip-hop story, weaving together a collection of tracks that touched on identity, growth, relationships, and hustle. Songs like “The Ugandan,” “Welcome to UG,” and “Bwaga Amagumba” stood out not only for their polished production and lyrical dexterity but also for how boldly Ugandan the project was in tone, language and vision.
It was a celebration of Ugandan identity and a challenge for artists to embrace their roots and narratives, with the Mith’s code-switching showcasing the duality of urban Ugandans, feeling both authentic and ambitious.
The Ugandan Vol 2 (Bali-Okwabwe)
Now, five years later, The Mith is ready to pick up where he left off- only this time, the stakes feel higher and the message deeper. Right from the subtitle Bali- Okwabwe which loosely translated could mean “They Are on Their Own” or even “Let Them Be” in Luganda- is a phrase that hints at defiance, identity, and perhaps even reclamation.
From the teasers shared so far, Vol 2 promises to be more introspective and maybe even culturally anchored. It is expected to continue championing Ugandan hip-hop but through a seemingly more refined and possibly more daring lens. The Mith has grown not just as a rapper but also as a cultural commentator- and this project might be where he becomes even more unapologetically himself.
What we expect?
UPDATE: We had the opportunity to interview some of the artistes involved on volume 2 visit our IG Page to catch up.
Well from us, we expect:
Collaborations that bridge generations: Like Vol 1, this album is likely to feature a mix of old- school and new-wave.
A deeper dive into cultural identity: The use of Luganda in the title is not accidental. This album might lean more into local languages, proverbs, and themes that explore being Ugandan today- in a region, continent and world that often tries to flatten African identities.
A bolder production sound: If The Mith’s recent verses and features are anything to go by, Vol 2 will likely balance traditional boom bap with afro-fusion, trap, and local percussive influences. Expect high quality production as The Mith is known for being keen on sound quality.
Instropective Storytelling with edge: The Mith has always been an elite storyteller, and Bali-Okwabwe may see him diving into more complex and vulnerable narratives. Think “CONVERSATIONS”
The Ugandan Vol 2 is not just another rap album- it is a moment for Ugandan hip-hop. Whether you are a longtime fan of The Mith or just now tuning in, Bali-Okwabwe is shaping up to be one of the most important Ugandan releases of the year- and one of the most defining chapters in The Mith’s legacy.
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