Music icon Bebe Cool has once again unveiled his highly anticipated annual Bebe Cool List for 2025, offering a comprehensive look at the standout artists, albums, and songs of the year, alongside a candid and critical reflection on the state of Uganda's music industry. Since its inception in the early 2000s, this list has evolved into a crucial barometer for artistic excellence, identifying industry trends, and spotting emerging talent within the Ugandan music scene. Both fans and industry observers eagerly await its release, valuing it not merely as a ranking but as Bebe Cool's personal commentary on the evolution and direction of Ugandan music. "This is my way of encouraging young artists, recognising effort, and calling the industry to a higher standard," Bebe Cool stated, emphasising that the list is not solely about popularity, but rather about "creativity, consistency, and professionalism."

Bebe Cool characterised 2025 as an "action-packed" year, marked by activities that presented both obstacles and opportunities for the music industry. He acknowledged that younger artists have successfully "broken boundaries of the norm, making audiences accept almost anything." However, he posited that true progress is measured by those who can define a clear direction for the industry and actively shape listeners' musical appetites.

Leading the 2025 list is Bebe Cool himself, with his album Break The Chains. This record is a fusion of Afrobeat and Afro-tech genres, intentionally crafted to appeal to global audiences. Despite anticipating some domestic resistance to its innovative sound, the album achieved significant international resonance. Bebe Cool highlighted the importance of a complete body of work, asserting, "An artist without a professional album will never be considered a professional artist -- and that is why artists record albums." Key tracks such as Hidden Agendas, Cheque featuring Joshua Baraka, Home, Motivation, and Hips Don't Lie were instrumental in solidifying the album's status as a top release of 2025.

In the category of best young talent demonstrating a global sound, Joshua Baraka earned recognition for his single Wrong Places, taken from his 12-track album Juvie. Bebe Cool commended Baraka for his willingness to take risks, noting, "Joshua was not afraid to stand alone and sound different in a market consuming other sounds." His increasing number of international performances further underscores his expanding global reach.

For the first time, Bebe Cool singled out a local male artist as a prominent standout: Elijah Kitaka. Kitaka was lauded for his remarkable creativity, distinctive fashion sense, and unique vocal delivery, having been involved in four major projects throughout 2025. Bebe Cool confidently predicted, "This guy will go global -- it's just a matter of time." Dax Vybz also reappeared on the list, with Bebe Cool acknowledging his undeniable talent and independent spirit within the industry. Kapeke made a return to the list, praised for his catchy hooks, danceable tunes, and dynamic stage presence, with Bebe Cool anticipating his potential to outperform many contemporaries.

Female artists also featured prominently. Lydia Jazmine was acknowledged for her album One & Only, which Bebe Cool cited as an example of the professional elevation that results from investing in a full album. Vinka was recognised for her song Lala, and Sheebah received credit for her impactful post-maternity comeback.

The top collaboration of 2025, according to Bebe Cool, was See You Tonight by Cindy Sanyu and Omega 256. This was closely followed by Joshua Baraka's Wrong Places and Elijah Kitaka's Ekyange. Other notable collaborative efforts included tracks by Kapati, Wanula, Ekisododo, and Misolo Boka.

Bebe Cool did not shy away from critical assessment of the industry. He highlighted a concerning trend of decline, stating, "2025 has been weaker than 2024, 2024 weaker than 2023, and 2023 weaker than 2022. The lists of those years prove this." He attributed this downturn to several factors, including laziness, low confidence, the proliferation of excuses, and drug abuse among artists. Drawing on his own extensive career, Bebe Cool recalled his early struggles, travelling to Nairobi by bus at 23 to hustle in an unfamiliar country with limited media outlets, yet still producing quality music, collaborating internationally, and performing at significant events like the Nelson Mandela birthday concert.

He used his longevity and experience as a call to action for the current generation. "I congratulate all artists on The Bebe Cool List 2025, but we must reflect, analyse our weaknesses, and act," he urged. Emphasising that his critique comes from "moral authority of experience and longevity," he clarified, "I mean no disrespect -- only a call for all stakeholders to raise the bar." Bebe Cool concluded with a hopeful outlook for 2026, highlighting the numerous advantages available to today's industry, such as more radio stations, social media, advanced technology, and government support, encouraging their strategic utilisation.