Why Jose Chameleone is Building a Music School in South Sudan

Ugandan music megastar Dr. Jose Chameleone, born Joseph Mayanja, has announced plans to establish a music school in South Sudan.

The initiative is a gesture of profound gratitude from the artist, who credits the neighboring nation with providing a crucial foundation for his early career.

Chameleone pledged a recent concert in Juba, South Sudan's capital.He revealed that his decision stems from a deep-seated appreciation for the support he received during his formative years in music.

"I don’t want to come to South Sudan just to sing and go. South Sudan built me. My first time in South Sudan was in 2002. The people welcomed me. Now I want to love the people back,” he stated, emphasizing that the country played a pivotal role in his development when he was starting with limited resources.

The artist's connection to the region dates back to the late 1990s. After leaving Uganda around 1999, Chameleone spent a significant period in Kenya, particularly Nairobi, where he further developed his musical style.

During this time, he performed extensively across East Africa, including in various parts of what was then still Sudan, before South Sudan gained independence.

This period was instrumental in shaping his sound and expanding his regional recognition, ultimately laying the groundwork for his eventual dominance in Ugandan pop music.

The proposed music school aims to nurture raw talent within South Sudan. Its objective is to provide aspiring musicians with professional training and essential industry insights, creating a structured platform for artistic development.

Chameleone believes that South Sudan possesses a wealth of untapped musical potential that requires dedicated fostering.

“I requested the acting governor to find a small piece of land in Western Equatoria where I want to build a school of creative music and arts. And the acting governor told me, with the authority bestowed upon him by the people, that it is going to be possible,” said Chameleon.

He also used the opportunity to encourage local South Sudanese artists to strive for excellence and cultivate self-reliance within their craft.

His vision for the school extends beyond mere instruction, aiming to inspire a new generation of musicians to innovate and build sustainable careers.

“My fellow youth, talented people, musicians, I want to bring a school here for you. I want us to have professional musicians and music producers from Western Equatoria.”

“I come from a small family background, but I discovered my talent, I worked hard, and I’m here today. Let me be a good example to you,” Chameleon told young people.

Jose Chameleone is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of modern Ugandan pop music, known for blending traditional African rhythms with reggae, R&B, and dancehall.

Over his decades-long career, he has released numerous hit albums and singles, cementing his status as a leading figure in African music.