Chameleone to critics: Stay home if Lugogo venue doesn’t suit you

Music veteran Jose Chameleone has a message for critics unhappy with his choice of venue for his upcoming concert: relax and, if necessary, stay home.

The singer has fired back at critics questioning why he chose Lugogo Cricket Oval for his December concert instead of the more familiar Kololo Independence Grounds, suggesting that some people have suddenly appointed themselves his event planners.

In a colourful response laced with expletives, Chameleone wondered why critics were so concerned about where he chooses to stage his show.

“Did Mowzey Radio have a concert at Kololo? Don’t give me your choices,” he said.

Chameleone argued that Ugandan musicians have successfully staged concerts at different venues, insisting that the location of his show should not be a matter for public debate.

And for those still holding meetings about his venue choice, the singer had another suggestion: instead of telling him where to perform, they should encourage their favourite artistes to think bigger and target international stadiums.

He also took a swipe at musicians who perform in what he described as remote parts of the country, citing Bukomansimbi, yet somehow find the time to worry about his Lugogo choice.

It appears, according to Chameleone, that the concert venue has become a national concern.

“If you think coming to my concert will hurt you, please remain at home,” he said, adding that he has plenty of fans willing to attend.

“And I’m not even bragging; I have so many people who love me, some of whom buy tickets from abroad,” he added.

Chameleone also dismissed suggestions that Lugogo was a hurried choice.

According to the singer, he booked the venue as early as March but deliberately chose to let other artistes have their moments before taking his turn.

“I said instead of being selfish, let me first leave the rest to have their concerts, and I will come last. That’s why I chose the 4th of December,” he explained.

So, while critics continue debating whether Chameleone belongs at Kololo, the singer appears to have already checked into Lugogo. In typical Kampala Street talk, a musician is worth their salt and can be accorded bragging rights if they fill Kololo independence.

That debate recently caused a bitter online feud between fans of Ray G and King Saha, both of whom performed at the venue on different dates, but with fans arguing that their artists filled the venue to the brim.