True craft demands passion, precision, and a respect for foundation. This was the overall vibe on Friday evening as Bond 7 joined the hip hop community to celebrate the best and the very bonds that unite at the 8th edition of the UG Hip Hop Awards. Old-school pioneers and new-wave visionaries converged in the IUEA Auditorium to toast to the sound, style, and soul of Uganda’s rap industry.
As the squads and stars made their way into the auditorium, they were welcomed with a complimentary 200ml Bond 7 to a toast to the night ahead. Across from the flashing photography of the red carpet, a cocktail bar crafted simple, bold serves using Bond 7 as a base, mirroring the night’s celebration of how individual talent and collective support blend beautifully in the hip hop scene.
Hillary Baguma, speaking on behalf of Bond 7, applauded the tapestry of talent on display. “Tonight is about celebrating the bonds this genre creates, the stories it tells, and the community it strengthens. As Bond 7, we are proud to support and honour all the trailblazers and newcomers here.”
The awards paid homage to the sounds from every corner and career path across the country. Key highlights included Geoffrey Ekongot receiving a standing ovation for his Lifetime Achievement, Tai Dai, Axon and Soundlykbb claiming Song of the Year for N**** in Fashion, Recho Rey winning Female Artiste, and Pryce Teeba taking Male Artiste of the Year.
The night concluded with a performance by industry legend, Babaluku, who reflected on the art form’s journey and the significance of celebrating hip-hop within a university setting saying, “We are bonded here by rap. To see it celebrated in a place of learning with support from partners like Bond 7, means we get to see it persist, grow, and fearlessly evolve.”
“Following a night that saluted the dedication and incredible talent within Ugandan Hip Hop, Bond 7 looks forward to continuing to celebrate bonds that bring us together and the bold spirit that sets us apart.”
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