Ugandan singer Grace Nakimera has advised fellow artists to be careful when choosing record labels or management teams, arguing that performers should consider whether potential partners share their spiritual beliefs.
Speaking during an interview on The Deep Talk, Nakimera claimed that some record labels seek extensive control over the artists they sign, including what she described as spiritual control.
Her comments come as she prepares for her concert at Kampala Serena Hotel on September 11, 2026.
Nakimera urged artists to work with management or record labels that are aligned with their spiritual beliefs, while making serious claims about rituals allegedly carried out by some labels.
“Sign with a management/record label when you are on the same spiritual side; otherwise, they will perform rituals on you and take your star. They own you in everything, even spiritually.”
The claims reflect Nakimera’s personal views and allegations. She did not identify specific record labels or provide evidence in the supplied material to substantiate the claims about spiritual rituals.
Beyond the spiritual concerns she raised, Nakimera also explained why she believes remaining independent can give artists greater control over their careers.
According to the veteran singer, independent artists have more freedom to create and perform their own music without being restricted by contractual relationships with record labels.
“Being an independent artist is the best because right now, I wouldn’t be able to perform my songs,” she said.
Nakimera further claimed that artists can face difficulties retaining elements of their identity and creative catalogue after leaving a label, including their stage names, YouTube presence and music catalogue.
“Record labels even deprive you of your stage name when you leave. YouTube, catalogue, everything,” she said.
Her preference for independence is also rooted in her own career experience. Nakimera said she built her career from the ground up without relying heavily on a record label, handling areas including fashion, production, promotion and stage development herself.
“I am the kind of artist who has done everything on my own from scratch, from fashion, production, promotion, and stage. I own my music,” she explained.
Nakimera ultimately argued that record labels can restrict an artist’s creative freedom, saying she does not understand the appeal of signing deals that could limit what performers are able to create.
Her comments add to the broader conversation among Ugandan artists about independence, ownership, management contracts and the balance between industry support and creative control.