Eddy Kenzo’s longtime manager Martin Beta Muhumuza believes Gloria Bugie has one major asset that could take her across different music markets: her voice.
Speaking in an interview, Martin Beta acknowledged that he does not particularly like the way Gloria Bugie handles or presents her brand, but argued that the singer’s vocal ability gives her significant potential if paired with the right strategy.
He said he would be willing to offer consultancy to the “Cherie” singer, although he stopped short of saying he would take over her management.
“I would manage Carol Nantongo, but I would do consultancy for Gloria Bugie. I wouldn’t manage her but do consultancy for her. She has a unique voice,” Martin Beta said.
He was also candid about his reservations regarding Gloria’s current branding.
“Sorry if you get offended, Gloria, but I don’t like the rest of your brand and how you handle it,” he added.
Despite that criticism, Martin Beta believes Gloria possesses the kind of vocal identity that can travel beyond Uganda.
“But I know you are one of those people with a unique voice who can cross into any market,” he said.
Martin Beta went on to compare Gloria’s vocal distinctiveness with that of fellow Ugandan singer Irene Ntale, naming both among the female artists whose voices stand out to him.
“The female artists with the most unique voices are Gloria (Bugie) and Irene Ntale. They have very unique voices,” he said.
For Martin Beta, however, vocal ability alone is not enough to guarantee success. He believes Gloria’s potential would need to be matched with a carefully developed artistic strategy.
“Beyond what the public says, the reality of the matter is that she (Gloria Bugie) has a good voice that can dominate any music market with the right strategy, the right songs, the right production, and the right branding.”
His comments put the spotlight on a distinction often made in the music business: having a strong voice is one thing, while building the right songs, image and strategy around that voice is another.
For now, Martin Beta says he would be willing to contribute his expertise through consultancy rather than taking over Gloria Bugie’s management — leaving the singer with the task of deciding how she wants to shape the next chapter of her career.