Kampala, Uganda | NOW THEN DIGITAL — Ugandan artist Joshua Baraka has released his third EP, “Growing Pains,” now available for streaming and download on platforms like Spotify. The EP, featuring production from Axon, a frequent collaborator and beatsmith, comes in time for the holidays.
Following the success of his chart-topping single ‘Nana,’ Baraka, an All Africa Music Award winner, solidifies his position as a rising star in East Africa. The Nana Remix received three nominations at the African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA) 2023 in the categories of Best Collaboration, Song of the Year, and Video of the Year.
Unlike his earlier EPs, “Watershed” and “Baby Steps,” where Baraka collaborated with Ugandan peers, “Growing Pains” showcases international collaborations, familiar production, and bold delivery. The seven-track EP, preceded by the singles ‘No Lie’ and ‘Dreams,’ features guest appearances by Ghana’s Yaw Tog and Nigeria’s Magixx. It also includes a remix of ‘Nana’ featuring Joeboy, King Promise, Bien, and Dr. Ish.
Baraka, reflecting on his third project, shared, “This means a lot to me. From the title, it’s about all the struggles I’ve gone through in my career from when I started until now.”
”For me, to be where I am currently is unbelievable sometimes. I wanted to share how much I’ve grown, the things I had to sacrifice, and the things I had to go through in order to make it here.”
At 22, Baraka, born to a Kenyan father and Rwandese mother, stands out as one of Uganda’s fastest rising stars. The singer, songwriter, producer, and instrumentalist, based in Kampala, initially hesitated to perform on stage until a 2020 wedding performance changed his mind. Baraka, inspired by icons like Bob Marley and Chronixx, decided to pursue music full-time after a rewarding experience at the show.
