Uganda’s entertainment scene is fast-paced, and fans are constantly looking for the next big thing. For creatives, this can mean a punishing cycle of releases, appearances, and reinvention. The fear of fading away haunts many, especially those who are still finding footing in the mainstream. Creativity ultimately does not start or end with a mic in hand. The idea that staying relevant must only involve music or performance is extremely outdated.
The truth is, the passion to make music moves many to stay producing. Nevertheless, a creative can focus on monetizing their existing work. They can also explore teaching opportunities and collaborate with others.
Today, many creatives are building side careers that are just as expressive as their original art forms.
Advertising
Artistes can very easily work in the field of advertising and copy writing. Rappers and poets are already masters of language, emotion and timing which are the very tools needed in advertising. Brands want authenticity and local connection, and who better to write that than those who speak the “street” fluently? We have seen many rappers make big bucks from writing adverts /copy: think Rugged Made, Navio?
Storytelling
Scripting and storytelling is another creative outlet that rappers and poets can easily take on. Many artistes naturally think in scenes and stories. Transitioning into script writing for television, film, or even skits for social media and YouTube opens up new possibilities. It allows them to use their imaginations in new ways. A verse can become a monologue; a concept album can be re-imagined as a visual series.
Creative Education
Artistes can also branch into workshops and mentoring young talent. There is a growing hunger among young creatives to learn from established names. Artistes can host lyric-writing sessions or spoken word clinics. They can also run creative mentorship programs. These activities would easily allow artistes to impact the industry positively. They can give back, especially to young creatives. Artistes can also earn a decent living while doing so. Why not charge for sharing from your career long experience?
Podcasting
Podcasting and commentary is also a key creative outlet especially in times like these. Artistes already have a very big platform and they can easily use this to their advantage. Pivoting into cultural critique, artiste interviews or even storytelling podcasts would keep them not only seen but also heard.
Event Curating
Artistes can also go into events curating and events experiences . Artistes have a clear creative outlet in directing events. These include themed open mic nights or pop-up ciphers in unconventional spaces. While this keeps them seen and relevant, it also enables them to actually make money.
Fashion and more
Artistes can also use merchandise and fashion design as a creative outlet. The platform and popularity that artistes have expose them to many people. Their fans will support them, and almost anything they put out will become popular. Beyond the cliche t-shirts, artistes can go into collaborative street wear drops tied to music releases. Think Rapaholix Wear, Keek UG, Baboon Forest Shop BFE and the I’m So UG brand.
Diversifying is not abandoning art but evolving it. Ugandan artistes should thus not be scared to branch into other facets of creativity. Multidimensional only ensures that artistes are can remain creative in the industry and still make a steady living.
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