For many artists, a first concert is a dream come true. For Martha Mukisa, it became a moment that almost crushed her spirit.
Two years ago, the Black Magic Entertainment singer boldly announced her maiden concert, Sisaaga, at Freedom City, a move that raised more eyebrows than excitement. Critics were quick to question her timing and readiness, arguing that her catalogue was too thin to carry a full show.
Among the loudest doubters was Kapa Cat, who insisted that Martha’s biggest hit, Ssango with Eddy Kenzo, wasn’t enough to anchor a major concert.
What followed was a reality many young artists fear but rarely talk about openly. A low turnout, heavy expectations, and the emotional weight of it all. Behind the stage lights and brave face, the experience hit hard.
“It almost took my life,” she later admitted in a recent radio interview.
The disappointment lingered long after the music stopped, nearly pushing her into depression. But somewhere in that difficult moment, something shifted.
Instead of letting the setback define her, Martha chose to see it as a turning point.
Looking back, she now describes the concert as one of the most important lessons of her career, not because it was successful, but because it wasn’t. The experience exposed her to the realities of the business: the pressure, the planning, the unpredictability, and most importantly, the need to grow.
Ironically, the very event that seemed like a failure opened doors. Through sponsorships and industry connections, she found herself meeting key players who would later contribute to building her brand.
“It made a big deal for us,” she reflected. “There was brand awareness, connections, and a lot of learning.”
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