Staff
By Our Reporter
Joshua Baraka is set to release a new EP on Thursday, November 12, reflecting on a journey shaped by persistence, growth and an unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries.
On Dreams, one of the songs on his upcoming EP, Baraka offers a glimpse into the story behind the music. He reflects on the distance travelled, describing himself as a small-town hero who has come a long way from zero. It is a story of an artist who refused to give up, regardless of what life threw at him, and continues to challenge himself to imagine what is possible.
Baraka’s journey, from his early beginnings as a sensational pianist to becoming one of Uganda’s exciting contemporary musical exports, reflects what it means to keep pushing boundaries and shaping the Music culture one step at a time.
Beyond his personal milestones, Baraka is increasingly becoming a voice within the evolving African music landscape. His sound, collaborations and creative expression are contributing to conversations around the future of Ugandan music, while connecting with audiences across the continent. Through his work, he is not only building a career but also helping shape how contemporary Ugandan music is experienced, discovered and celebrated.
In many ways, Baraka’s music has followed the same narrative. From Baby Steps and Watershed to Growing Pains, Recess and Juvie, his projects have documented different stages of a journey that is still unfolding. Each body of work represents a different chapter in his artistic evolution, reflecting the experiences, influences and ambitions that continue to shape his sound.
Now, on Thursday, November 12, he returns with Recess 2, his latest EP and another chapter in that progression.
Earlier this year, Joshua Baraka became Johnnie Walker’s Hero Walker, joining the brand’s Keep Walking platform, a partnership that celebrates ambition, progress and the determination to keep moving forward. It is a fitting association for an artist whose music has become a reflection of his personal journey, creative evolution and growing influence on the African music scene.
Speaking about his journey and the partnership with Johnnie Walker, Baraka says: “For me, Progress is about never becoming too comfortable with where you are or allowing where you started to determine how far you can go. Every chapter has taught me something, and music has given me the opportunity to tell those stories, connect with people and contribute to something bigger than myself. I am proud of how far I’ve come, but even more excited about what lies ahead. There is still so much more to create, explore and achieve.”
The project arrives after three singles that have already given listeners a taste of what to expect. Commando, featuring Nigerian songstress Tiwa Savage, has drawn attention for bringing together two artists from different parts of the continent. The collaboration marks another significant moment in Baraka’s growing regional profile, demonstrating the power of music to transcend borders and bring different audiences and sounds together.
Then there is Yoyo, which generated conversation in Nairobi following the appearance of popular Kenyan podcaster Chaxy in its music video. The collaboration offered Baraka another opportunity to connect with audiences beyond Uganda, tapping into Kenya’s vibrant entertainment scene and demonstrating how music can become a gateway into wider cultural conversations.
Meanwhile, What Do I Know took a different route, drawing appreciation for its nostalgic nods to some of Uganda’s musical greats. References to Elly Wamala, Maurice Kirya, A Pass, and Radio and Weasel offered listeners a reminder of the musical influences and generations that have shaped the country’s sound. It is also a reflection of Baraka’s appreciation for the foundations laid by those before him, while continuing to contribute to the next chapter of Ugandan music.
Together, the three singles have set the stage for an EP that arrives at an important point in Baraka’s career, one that captures both his artistic growth and his expanding cultural influence.
The release also adds momentum to his upcoming B’Raka Land concert scheduled for November 28, where he will have an opportunity to bring his music and growing audience together for a live experience. More than a performance, the concert presents an opportunity to celebrate the connection between music, audiences and the culture that continues to grow around his artistry.
For Johnnie Walker, partnering with voices such as Baraka reflects the brand’s commitment to celebrating individuals who are not only progressing in their own journeys but also influencing the spaces and communities around them. Through the Keep Walking platform, the brand champions ambition, individuality and the courage to keep moving forward.
Speaking about the partnership, Christine Kyokunda – Culture & Partnerships Manager at EABL, said: “We believe progress is not just about how far you go, but also about the impact you make along the way. Our partnership with Joshua Baraka is rooted in our belief in individuals who are pushing boundaries, challenging convention and actively shaping the culture around them. Joshua’s journey represents a Culture Icon and a new generation of African creativity whose influence extends beyond the music, connecting people, inspiring ambition and contributing to the cultural conversations shaping our region. Through this partnership, we are proud to walk alongside him as he continues to evolve his craft, expand his influence and shape what comes next.”
For Baraka, Recess 2 is another marker of how far he has travelled, but perhaps more importantly, a reminder that the journey is far from over.
From the early steps of Baby Steps to the ambitions captured in Dreams, his music continues to tell the story of an artist determined to keep moving, evolving and shaping what comes next.
