Biography

Wycliff Tugume, better known by his electrifying stage name, Ykee Benda, is a multifaceted force in the realm of music. Born on the 11th of November in 1991, in the vibrant neighborhood of Kireka, Kampala, Uganda, Ykee Benda's journey from humble beginnings to dazzling stardom is a testament to the power of passion and talent.

As a child, Ykee's heart found its rhythm within the walls of a church, where his soulful voice first emerged. The melody of his dreams began to weave its intricate tapestry, setting the stage for his future in the world of music. With unwavering determination and relentless dedication, he embarked on a remarkable odyssey to fulfill his lifelong dream of becoming a celebrated musician.

But Ykee Benda's aspirations didn't stop at music alone. In an astonishing display of versatility, he pursued higher education, venturing to Algeria to earn a degree in Engineering with distinction. This commitment to excellence and his pursuit of knowledge would later be reflected in the precision and innovation he brought to his music.

Ykee Benda's meteoric rise to fame reached new heights when he graced the stage of Coke Studio Africa in 2017 during the Big Break Segment, sharing the spotlight with acclaimed artists like Jah Prayzah and Mr. Bow. This pivotal moment catapulted him into the global spotlight, garnering him a legion of fans and admirers across borders.

One of the crowning achievements of Ykee Benda's career came when he was selected by Coca-Cola to lend his melodious voice to the Official Coca-Cola FIFA World Cup 2018 Anthem. In a harmonious collaboration, he joined forces with American pop sensation Jason Derulo, proudly representing his native Uganda on the world stage.

Beyond the spotlight, Ykee Benda's life has been marked by significant moments, both triumphant and challenging. On the 23rd of November in 2020, social media buzzed with concern as news of a near-fatal car accident involving Ykee Benda, his beloved wife Julie Batenga, and their young son Dante emerged. Miraculously, while Ykee Benda sustained facial injuries, his family emerged unscathed from the harrowing incident.

The love story between Ykee Benda and Julie Batenga is a testament to enduring romance. Their journey began in high school, blossoming into a love that would span nine years before Ykee Benda made the heartfelt decision to propose. Julie, swept away by his affection, joyfully accepted his proposal, and the two embarked on a lifelong journey together. Their love story is now illuminated by the presence of their cherished son, Dante Quaine, who entered the world on June 21, 2019.

In the symphony of Ykee Benda's life, each note represents a chapter of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams. From the pews of a church in Kireka to the grand stages of the world, his music and his story continue to inspire and resonate with countless hearts, making him an indelible icon in the annals of Ugandan music history.