By Nakiwala Barbra
In the bustling district of Ssembabule, where dreams often struggle against hardship, emerges the inspiring story of Kabuye Hakim, better known as Kim Star the visionary behind the hit song “OWINO.” Born to Mr. Ssekitoleko Hammid and Mrs. Nanono Sarah, Hakim’s journey began with humble roots as a street banana vendor in Owino Market, downtown Kampala.
Driven by his passion for music, he transformed his dream into reality, balancing the hard work of street vending with his aspirations for the Ugandan music scene. In a one-on-one interview at MGD Media, the rising star, filled with hope and ambition, shared his journey and experiences as an emerging artist in the music industry.
Hello, nice meeting Hakim?
Hello, happy to see you too Barbra,
let me go straight to questions, what drew you to music in the first place?
Hakim: My love for music started when I discovered my voice and realized the magic I could create in the studio. I knew I had the power to make an impact, and I decided to take on the challenge of turning music into my career.
That’s inspiring! So, tell me, what’s the story behind your song, “OWINO”?
A brief background of OWINO before I share why I sung about it. It’s a local name given to a market by the traders and vendors after an elderly man named Owino who would roast maize and sweet potatoes on the site before the traders arrived in 1971.
When I heard that the market might be demolished, I felt compelled to speak up through music. I poured my heart into that song, hoping it would resonate with people across Uganda. I truly believe it’s a song that will hit everyone right here, he taps his chest.
click in the link below to access his song
https://youtu.be/9qOcM8gWko8?si=vEkEDZBewwn72wo0
I can hear the passion in your voice! Now, outside of music, what do you do for a living?
I’m a sweet banana vendor in Owino Market. That’s how I make my money, which supports my music career and pays my bills. It’s hard work, but it’s how I keep the dream alive.
Are there any specific people who influenced you along the way?
Absolutely. Producers like Pyret Beats, who lived near me, really motivated me. And I look up to legends like Michael Jackson, Madox Ssematimba, and Bobi Wine. Their music drives my passion and pushes me forward every day.
Do you have any management helping you right now?
Not officially, no. But I’m grateful for friends who help with audio production. If anyone out there wants to manage me and help take my music further, I’d be grateful, he says with a hopeful smile.
What’s your songwriting process like? Where do you get your inspiration?
It takes time and a lot of thought to create something meaningful. For example, I wrote ‘OWINO’ because I heard the market might be torn down. That news hit close to home, so I wanted to defend my community where I earn a living through my music.
Which artists do you admire the most?
Michael Jackson, Lucky Dube, Philly Bongole Lutaaya, Madox Ssematimba, and Bobi Wine. Their music is powerful, and each of them inspires me in a different way. They’re a big part of what keeps me going.
Being an artist can’t be easy, especially in the local scene. How do you handle the challenges?
Every career has challenges, but faith and persistence keep me going. Trusting God helps me face everything that comes my way.
You primarily sing reggae, but “OWINO” is an Afrobeat track. What led you to experiment with a new style?
I usually do reggae, but Afrobeat is trending right now, and it was the right fit for ‘OWINO.’ As a reggae artist, I can blend into any genre when needed. But at my core, reggae is still home.
What message do you hope listeners take from your music?
I want to create music that both educates and entertains. My goal is to inspire social and economic change, to help people believe they can make their lives better.
What’s been your most memorable performance so far?
That would be when I performed on a big stage organized by Gen Salim Saleh. I shared the platform with some of Uganda’s biggest artists. That was an unforgettable moment for me.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
With God’s blessing, I’d love to perform at Namboole Stadium. Who knows? Maybe it’ll happen even sooner he laughs.
And if you had to rate “OWINO” on a scale of 1 to 10, what would you give it?
I’d give it a 10 out of 10,” he says confidently. If I could, I’d go higher. The song’s message makes it special to me.
Who’s your producer, and do you have any advice for aspiring artists?
I work with Producer Jeff Hanns at MGD Records on Ssenyonga Road Kabalaga Kampala. For new artists, my advice is to believe in yourself. Don’t let anyone discourage you. Keep going, and you’ll make it.
Any one who would wish to support your music how he/ she reach you?
They can reach out at all my social media handls Kim star ug or contact on 0757102276 or 0700535601
Any final message for your fans?
To all my fans, keep supporting my music, especially ‘OWINO.’ Your love and support mean everything to me,” he says, signing off with gratitude.
This young talent is driven by a deep love for music, which shines through even in the face of financial challenges. Despite having a modest income from his job, Hakim sets aside what little he can to record his songs, fueled by an unwavering hope that his music will one day reach the top. His dedication is a powerful reminder of what it means to be a dream chaser, overcoming obstacles and staying committed to his passion no matter the circumstances.
Hakim’s story serves as a lesson for anyone striving to achieve their dreams: don’t let obstacles stand in the way of your goals. Success often comes from going beyond the support of family or friends and seeking new connections and opportunities, even from strangers who may help shape your journey in unexpected ways. Life’s greatest achievements rarely come easily; they require persistence, hard work, and a willingness to face challenges head-on.
So go after your dreams, no matter how tough the road may seem. Sitting back or relaxing isn’t an option for those who truly want to make an impact. As Hakim shows us, the harder you work now, the easier life will be down the line. Staying focused, staying driven, and believing in your own potential are key to transforming obstacles into stepping stones. With determination and a hopeful heart, like Hakim, you can turn your aspirations into a reality, creating a future that reflects the full strength of your passion and dedication.
