Ugandan artist Zanie Brown has issued a stark warning to aspiring musicians, particularly young women, about the pervasive sexual exploitation and financial manipulation in the industry. Speaking to Sanyuka TV, the singer emphasized that many managers and promoters exploit vulnerable artists by offering false promises of funding and promotion in exchange for sexual favors. “Most managers will lie about funding your music, yet they want to sleep with you,” Brown stated, urging young artists to secure independent income streams before pursuing music careers.
Brown, known for hits like “Okwagala Akwagala” and “Friendly Match”, stressed the importance of thorough research and mentorship. She advised newcomers to “speak to people who have gone before you” to understand industry pitfalls, including the pressure to compromise personal values for career advancement. Her warnings align with global findings, such as a 2023 UK study highlighting endemic sexual harassment in music, where 65% of female artists reported abuse. Brown’s advocacy follows her own career struggles, including spiritual challenges that led her to transition from secular to gospel music for protection and fulfillment.
Brown’s advice-financial independence, mentorship, and spiritual grounding-reflects systemic issues in Uganda’s music scene, mirroring global patterns of exploitation.