Ugandan music duo Kataleya and Kandle are reflecting on the turning point that helped revive their career after one of the most challenging periods of their journey.
Two years ago, the duo became a major topic in Uganda’s entertainment scene after parting ways with their former management label, Theron Music.
The split came during a difficult chapter that the singers have previously described as “depressing,” with uncertainty surrounding the future of their promising music career.
However, a collaboration with Swangz Avenue star Vinka changed the direction of their journey, bringing them back into the spotlight with the hit song “Tompa.”
How Vinka’s “Tompa” Collaboration Came Together
According to Kandle, the partnership with Vinka did not happen instantly.
The duo initially reached out to the singer and shared several songs with her, but the first submissions did not connect.
“We reached out to her, sent a few songs, but she didn’t like them,” Kandle explained.
Instead of giving up, Kataleya and Kandle returned to the studio and created “Tompa.” After sending the song to Vinka, they received a positive response.
“She asked that we record that, and we returned to the studio,” Kandle said.
The recording process became a memorable experience for the artists, with Kandle describing Vinka as energetic and easy to work with.
“She was very vibrant in the studio when we recorded the song; we did the video. It was easy and fun,” she added.
The collaboration went on to become one of the duo’s most successful releases, helping them regain momentum in Uganda’s competitive music industry.
“Tompa” Becomes a Major Milestone
Since its release, “Tompa” has achieved significant attention online.
The music video has surpassed 1.4 million views on YouTube, becoming one of Kataleya and Kandle’s most-watched videos on the platform.
For the duo, the achievement represents more than just numbers.
They view the song as a major comeback moment that helped restore their connection with fans after a difficult period.
Kataleya praised Vinka for supporting them when they needed a career boost.
“We want to thank Vinka; she really made it easy for us because we had issues around that time, but she gave us a song that brought us back in the industry. We’re really grateful,” she said.
Kataleya and Kandle Prepare to Share the Stage With Vinka Again
The duo is now looking forward to performing alongside Vinka once again during her upcoming #VinkLiveAndLoud concert.
The event is scheduled for August 21 at Lugogo Cricket Oval, where fans will get another chance to see the artists share the stage.
Kataleya and Kandle said their first performance with Vinka was a special experience and believe the upcoming concert will create another memorable moment.
“She loves what she does, she’s energetic, she’s a nice person,” Kataleya said while describing their relationship with the singer.
“The first time we performed with Vinka was magical and it’s going down again on 21st (August),” she added.
Why the Collaboration Matters
In Uganda’s music industry, collaborations often play a major role in helping artists reach new audiences and rebuild momentum.
For Kataleya and Kandle, “Tompa” arrived at a crucial time when they were navigating changes behind the scenes and working to protect their musical future.
The success of the song showed the impact that a strong creative partnership can have, especially when established artists support emerging talent.
Vinka’s involvement gave the duo a renewed platform while allowing fans to reconnect with their sound.
The Human Side of Kataleya and Kandle’s Journey
Behind the success of “Tompa” is a story of persistence and adaptation.
After facing uncertainty following their management split, Kataleya and Kandle continued creating music and searching for opportunities to move forward.
Their experience highlights the challenges many artists face when navigating changes in their careers.
For the duo, Vinka’s support became a meaningful chapter in their story — one they continue to celebrate as they prepare for another live performance together.
With fans waiting for #VinkLiveAndLoud, Kataleya and Kandle are ready to relive the moment that helped bring them back into the conversation.