Veteran Kadongo Kamu singer Gerald Kiweewa has responded to criticism over his decision to perform music during the vigil of his late wife, explaining that his actions came from a lifetime connection between love, grief, and music.
The singer said some members of the public misunderstood the emotional meaning behind his performance because they do not know the special bond he shared with his wife.
According to Kiweewa, music was not just his profession—it was also a major part of their relationship.
He revealed that his late wife was also a musician and that the two connected through singing long before they became husband and wife.
“Those people don’t understand. I’m a musician, and my wife was also a musician. From the very beginning, we used to sing together.”
Kiweewa explained that although they shared a passion for music, they never got the opportunity to officially record and release songs together.
“Unfortunately, we never got the chance to record and release songs together. Later, I stepped away from making music with her, brought her into my home, and she became my wife.”
For the singer, performing during the vigil was a personal expression connected to the memories they created together.
Kiweewa also explained that singing during difficult moments is not something new in his life.
He recalled another painful experience more than two decades ago when he received news of his mother’s death while preparing to perform.
According to the singer, the heartbreaking news came on September 1, 2000, when musician Willy Mukaabya received the information first and quietly informed him before his performance.
“As I was about to perform, he quietly informed me that my mother had died.”
Despite the shock and grief, Kiweewa said he continued with the performance.
He recalled singing three songs for the audience before eventually sharing the news of his mother’s passing.
“After the third song, I told the audience about my mother’s passing. I then performed one final song before leaving, and everyone was left in shock.”
The singer said the experience showed him that music has always been part of how he processes some of life’s most difficult moments.
Kiweewa’s explanation highlights the unique relationship many musicians have with their craft, where performing is not only entertainment but also a form of personal expression.
For artists, music often becomes a way to communicate emotions that words alone cannot fully capture.
In Kiweewa’s case, he says singing at his wife’s vigil was connected to their shared history rather than a lack of grief or respect.
His comments have reopened conversations about how people express mourning differently, especially when cultural traditions, personal experiences, and artistic identity come together.
Human Angle
Behind the public criticism was a deeply personal moment for Kiweewa—a chance to honour a woman who shared his love for music.
Although some questioned his decision, the singer maintains that those closest to their relationship understand why music was part of his farewell.
For Gerald Kiweewa, the songs were not separate from the grief; they were part of remembering the life they shared.
The Kadongo Kamu legend continues to stand by his decision, saying music has remained with him through both celebration and loss.