Ugandan singer D Star, best known for his viral hit Hoozambe, has made a stunning confession that’s sending shockwaves through the entertainment industry.
The performing and recording artist has revealed that he nearly walked away from the Ugandan music scene altogether — and was seriously considering relocating to Nairobi.
Yes, you read that right.
At the height of his reflection earlier this year, D Star was prepared to quit music — the very industry that gave him fame — over what he describes as a broken system, toxic competition, and a shrinking market.
And according to the singer, it wasn’t just talk.
He was ready to go.
“I Was Contemplating Quitting Music”
In a candid revelation, D Star admitted that 2026 almost marked the end of his music journey in Uganda.
“I was contemplating quitting music this year and relocating to Nairobi, Kenya. I have my projects and businesses in Kenya. I have my twins there.”
For the “Hoozambe” hitmaker, the move wasn’t just emotional — it was practical.
Why Nairobi?
The singer already has:
- Ongoing business ventures in Kenya
- Personal investments tied to the region
- His twins living in Nairobi
With both family and finances anchored there, relocating felt like the logical next step.
Industry insiders say Nairobi has increasingly become a creative and commercial hub for East African artists, offering:
- Bigger collaboration networks
- Stronger corporate sponsorship structures
- Cross-border audience reach
- More structured entertainment business models
For D Star, it may have represented a fresh start.
Frustrated With Uganda’s Music Industry
But what pushed him to the edge?
According to the singer, it wasn’t burnout.
It was disappointment.
D Star expressed deep frustration with what he sees as the declining value of Uganda’s music industry.
“I wanted to quit the music industry because people have distorted and failed the music industry. It no longer has a market.”
That’s a bold claim — especially from an artist who has benefited from mainstream success.
He didn’t stop there.
“Those who practice it do it in the wrong way. They don’t wish others well, yet they practice it the wrong way.”
Toxic Competition & Lack of Unity?
D Star believes one of the biggest challenges affecting Uganda’s music growth is a lack of unity among artists.
He says unhealthy competition and bad practices are slowly eroding what was once a thriving creative ecosystem.
According to his perspective, the problems include:
- ❌ Artists sabotaging each other
- ❌ Limited collaboration culture
- ❌ Poor business ethics
- ❌ Ego-driven rivalries
- ❌ Failure to support upcoming talent
The singer’s comments echo sentiments previously shared by other Ugandan entertainers who have called for industry reforms and more structured management systems.
Is the Ugandan Music Market Shrinking?
D Star’s claim that the industry “no longer has a market” may sound dramatic — but it reflects a wider conversation happening behind the scenes.
Industry observers point to:
- Rising production costs
- Declining physical sales
- Streaming revenue challenges
- Event oversaturation
- Limited international distribution deals
While Uganda continues to produce talented artists, monetization remains a hurdle for many musicians.
For some, survival in the industry now requires:
- Diversifying into business
- Leveraging social media branding
- Securing endorsements
- Expanding regionally
Which is exactly what D Star appears to have done.
Balancing Fatherhood and Fame
Another powerful factor behind D Star’s contemplation? His twins.
The singer openly acknowledged that having his children based in Nairobi played a major role in his thinking.
Fatherhood often changes priorities — and for many artists, family stability can outweigh fame.
By relocating, he would not only focus on his businesses but also be closer to his children.
That kind of shift suggests maturity and long-term planning rather than impulsive decision-making.
What Changed? Why He Didn’t Quit
While D Star admitted he seriously considered leaving, he ultimately did not step away — at least not yet.
Though he hasn’t detailed what changed his mind, fans speculate that:
- Support from loyal listeners may have influenced him
- Business restructuring could have renewed hope
- Ongoing music projects may still be in motion
One thing is clear: his frustration is real.
And his words have reignited debates about reforming Uganda’s music landscape.
Fans React Online
Following his revelation, fans took to social media with mixed reactions.
Some supported his honesty:
“He’s speaking facts. The industry needs unity.”
Others encouraged him to stay:
“Don’t quit! Uganda still needs your music.”
And some pointed out that relocating doesn’t mean abandoning Uganda entirely — many artists operate internationally while still representing home.
Could Nairobi Be the Next East African Music Capital?
Nairobi has increasingly positioned itself as a regional entertainment powerhouse.
From Afrobeats to Gengetone, the Kenyan capital has cultivated a vibrant, export-ready music scene.
For Ugandan artists, Kenya offers:
- Broader commercial partnerships
- Access to multinational brands
- Stronger live-event circuits
- A growing streaming consumer base
D Star’s near-move highlights a bigger trend: East African artists are becoming more mobile and strategic.
A Wake-Up Call for the Industry?
D Star’s near-exit might serve as a warning bell.
When established artists consider walking away, it signals deeper systemic issues.
His comments spotlight:
- Industry structure challenges
- Artist relations breakdown
- Market sustainability concerns
- Need for collective growth strategies
If nothing changes, more artists could explore regional relocation or career shifts.
What’s Next for D Star?
For now, D Star remains active.
But his revelation has reshaped how fans view his journey.
Will he:
- Drop new music addressing the industry drama?
- Officially expand operations into Kenya?
- Lead calls for reform within Uganda’s music community?
Only time will tell.
One thing is certain — he’s not staying silent anymore.
Final Thoughts
D Star’s confession isn’t just celebrity gossip.
It’s a raw look into the emotional and professional struggles artists face behind the spotlight.
His near decision to quit music and relocate to Nairobi reveals:
- The pressure of sustaining a career
- The importance of family priorities
- The frustrations within Uganda’s music ecosystem
- The growing regional competition in East Africa
Whether he ultimately stays or moves, his voice has sparked a necessary conversation.
And fans are watching closely.
What do YOU think?
Was D Star right to consider quitting?
Is Uganda’s music industry truly declining?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below — and stay tuned to E Page One for more exclusive entertainment updates!
