Ugandan singer A Pass has raised concerns about the lyrics being performed by 11-year-old TikTok sensation Warden Kartel, arguing that the young entertainer needs better guidance as his popularity continues to grow.
A Pass, who has previously praised Warden Kartel’s talent and confidence, believes some of the material associated with the youngster is too mature for his age and should be edited to make it more appropriate for children.
One of Warden Kartel’s popular TikTok challenges features the sound “Kikubye akawuzi, kiwunya enjaga.” According to A Pass, the phrase carries a vulgar meaning, raising questions about the kind of lyrics young performers are being encouraged to sing.
Speaking during a TikTok Live broadcast, the singer said he was surprised that adults continued applauding the youngster without considering whether the content was suitable for an 11-year-old.
“There is a very talented young artist, Warden Kartel. I wonder why he continues to sing vulgar lyrics without anyone to guide him,” A Pass said.
He argued that children in the entertainment industry should be allowed to develop their abilities without being pushed towards adult themes too early.
To illustrate his point, A Pass referenced Justin Bieber’s early career, saying the Canadian singer performed age-appropriate songs when he was a young artist.
“Even Justin Bieber, as a kid, had kiddish songs. They were kids; they didn’t sing like old people,” he said.
A Pass was careful to distinguish his concerns about the lyrics from his assessment of Warden Kartel’s talent. He described the youngster as gifted and said he would personally encourage changes if he had an opportunity to meet him.
“If I had a chance to meet him, I would make sure he doesn’t sing like that because he has special talent, but certain words, they don’t have to say,” he added.
The singer also maintained that he does not consider the song itself bad, but believes certain words should be reconsidered because of the performer’s age.
His comments bring attention to a wider question about the responsibilities of adults who manage, promote or support young entertainers, particularly as TikTok and other social media platforms create opportunities for children to reach large audiences.
Warden Kartel has attracted attention through his online performances and viral challenges, with A Pass among those publicly acknowledging his potential. However, the singer believes that protecting the youngster’s development should be just as important as celebrating his growing popularity.
For A Pass, the issue is not about stopping Warden Kartel from making music. It is about ensuring that the material he performs reflects his age while allowing his talent to develop.