Ugandan singer Joshua Baraka, famed for hits such as Nana and Wrong Places, is set to embark on a major European tour this October.
The fast-rising star will headline shows in Denmark, Germany, and the United Kingdom, introducing his sound to a wider international audience. The tour begins on October 5, 2025, in Denmark, continues with a performance in Germany on October 7, and concludes with a grand finale in London on October 11 at 6 p.m. a highlight of his European debut.
Baraka will be joined by his girlfriend, media personality Etania Mutoni better known as Etania Life of the Party as well as Selector J, promising electrifying performances and memorable experiences for fans.
According to Ugandan outlets such as Big Eye, these concerts carry special meaning for Ugandans in the diaspora, offering both cultural reconnection and a chance to relive the emotions tied to music from home.
Kigali Connection
Baraka recently visited Kigali, where he collaborated with Rwandan star Bruce Melodie and wowed fans in a concert that also featured Alyn Sano, Jules Sentore, and Ruti Joel. The show was staged in celebration of DJ Pius’ 15 years in the music industry.
Breakthrough With Nana
Baraka’s breakthrough came with Nana, released shortly after his 22nd birthday. The single quickly rose to the top of charts in Uganda and Kenya, propelling him onto the international stage. He later signed with UK-based Moves Recordings, which produced a remix featuring Afrobeats stars Joeboy (Nigeria), King Promise (Ghana), and Bien (Kenya).
That success marked the start of his global journey. Raised in Bwaise, a vibrant but underprivileged neighborhood of Kampala, Baraka became the first in his family to travel abroad, performing in Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, and the UK.
From the Church to Global Stages
Baraka discovered his passion for music early. “The first song I ever wrote was about my mother, though I never sang it to her,” he recalls. “My father was a pastor, and I learned to play the drums in church. By the time I was 12, when music was introduced at school, I was hooked.”
Although he once considered becoming a doctor, his love for music prevailed when he was 19. He began playing piano in bars and restaurants, blending Afrobeats, dancehall, and RnB influences.
In 2021, he released his debut EP Baby Steps, followed in 2022 by Belinda, a love-inspired track influenced by a popular social media personality.
A Rising Voice
Reflecting on his breakthrough, Baraka said: “I believed Nana would work, but I never imagined it would go this far. I knew something had changed when I heard kids from my neighborhood singing it. Meeting artists like Ghetts and Bien people I used to look up to made me realize they’re just like me.”
For Baraka, lyrics carry as much weight as melody: “A melody can stay in your head, but words give it meaning. That’s why I read a lot so even when I write something playful, it paints a vivid picture.”
Currently preparing to release a new EP in December 2025, Baraka shows no sign of slowing down: “I’ll keep doing what I love singing, writing, making music. Everything else will follow. Next year will show the mark I want to leave in this industry.”
Author: Justinmind HARERIMANA
