Biography

Bebe Cool, born Moses Ssali on September 1, 1977, is a highly acclaimed African reggae and ragga musician from Uganda. He embarked on his musical journey in the late 1990s, initially in Nairobi, Kenya, before returning to his home country. Bebe Cool emerged as one of the pioneering artists affiliated with Ogopa DJs, a prominent production house and record label in Kenya.

During his early years, Bebe Cool attended Aga Khan Primary School, Kitante Hill School, and Makerere College School, where he displayed a passion for entertainment even as a high school student. He excelled academically in subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics. However, he decided to pursue a career in music and left school one year before completion.

Bebe Cool's talent and dedication to his craft quickly garnered recognition. He is a three-time recipient of the prestigious Artist of the Year Award at the HiPipo Music Awards and has received numerous accolades at the Pearl of Africa Music Awards (PAM Awards). His notable achievements include nominations for the Kora All-African Awards in 2003 and 2005, as well as successful tours in the United Kingdom and the United States. Among his popular singles are "Fitina" and "Mambo Mingi."

Throughout his career, Bebe Cool has collaborated with influential artists such as Halima Namakula, a veteran Ugandan female musician, on the crossover track "Sambagala." He has released two solo albums, namely "Maisha" and "Sente," showcasing his lyrical prowess in Luganda, Swahili, and English. Additionally, Bebe Cool joined forces with the Kenyan duo Necessary Noize to form the reggae group known as the East African Bashment Crew. The group gained recognition with their album "Fire" and hit singles "Africa Unite" and "Fire," leading to a nomination at the MTV Africa Music Awards 2008.

In 2013, Bebe Cool participated in a music battle against Nigerian artist D'banj in Harare, Zimbabwe. The event, titled "Battle for Africa," showcased his exceptional performance skills. In 2014, Bebe Cool's remake of the late Philly Lutaaya's song, titled "Born in Africa," earned a spot among Africa's greatest songs of all time. The track ranked 15th in the compilation "Fifty Anthems for the African Continent" by BBC World Service, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the African Union.

Bebe Cool's influence extends beyond the music industry. He has made appearances in the Big Brother house and has actively engaged in philanthropic endeavors. Notably, he performed at the Nelson Mandela 90th Birthday Tribute in Hyde Park, London, and was designated as one of the 46664 African ambassadors by Nelson Mandela himself. He has also organized fundraising events to sponsor medical treatment for children with heart diseases.

While Bebe Cool's music career has thrived, he has also been involved in political activities. He showed his support for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni during the 2021 presidential elections in Uganda.

Bebe Cool's contributions to music and his philanthropic efforts have earned him a multitude of awards throughout his career. Notable wins include multiple Pearl of Africa Music Awards, HiPipo Music Awards, and Channel O Music Video Awards, among others. He has also received numerous nominations for prestigious international awards, including the Kora Awards and MOBO Awards.

Beyond his artistic achievements, Bebe Cool's resilience and dedication to his craft have solidified his status as one of Africa's most celebrated musicians.