Music often serves as a powerful medium for expressing emotions, and for Ugandan artist Ykee Benda, love played a pivotal role in creating one of his biggest hits, Singa.
Born Wycliffe Tugume, Ykee Benda recently revealed in a media interview that the craziest thing he has ever done for love was recording Singa for a woman he deeply loved. According to the artist, the song’s success was fueled by the raw emotions and authenticity he poured into it.
Released in 2018, Singa—which means “If Only” in English—is based on a true story from Ykee Benda’s university days. The singer met and fell in love with an Algerian woman, but despite their strong bond, their relationship could not continue due to cultural and family differences. Specifically, the woman’s father disapproved of her marrying a Ugandan man, forcing them apart.
This emotional experience led Ykee Benda to channel his feelings into music, and Singa was born. The song, filled with soulful lyrics and heartfelt longing, resonated deeply with fans across Uganda and beyond, turning it into one of his most celebrated tracks.
The success of Singa proved Ykee Benda’s belief that real and honest music connects best with listeners. The song topped music charts and received massive airplay on Ugandan radio and TV stations. To date, it remains one of his most iconic love songs, solidifying his place among Uganda’s top musical talents.
By transforming a personal heartbreak into a musical masterpiece, Ykee Benda demonstrated the power of storytelling through music, making Singa an unforgettable hit.