Azawi waives airplay fees, ignites debate in music industry – Sqoop

Ugandan singer-songwriter Azawi has stirred widespread debate after publicly declaring that broadcasters and event organisers can play her music free of charge.

The bold announcement came just a day after President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni assented to the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Act, 2026, a move that has placed renewed focus on artists’ rights and royalties in Uganda’s creative industry.

In a widely shared post on X (formerly Twitter), the Swangz Avenue artist wrote: “Guys, me as me, I authorise you to play my music for free,” instantly sparking excitement among fans, DJs and radio stations.

Guys, me as me, i authorize you to play my music for free??

— Azawi (@AzawiOfficial) April 30, 2026

The decision was quickly welcomed by Balaam Barugahara, Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs and a media proprietor, who directed his radio stations to begin playing her music without charge.

“Please proceed to play Azawi’s music free of charge, as she has officially authorised,” Balaam said, while also advising that formal clearance be obtained from her management to avoid legal complications.

Thank you, Madam @AzawiOfficial.@RadioOneSS @Radio8Uganda @Radio7Uganda @Radio9Uganda @Radio3Kampala ?Please proceed to play Azawi’s music free of charge, as she has officially authorized. Kindly ensure you obtain a formal sign-off from her team as soon as possible to avoid any… https://t.co/FtMHhRbg79

— Barugahara Balaam Ateenyi. (@BalaamBarugahar) April 30, 2026

Signed under Swangz Avenue, Azawi rose to prominence after launching her music career in 2020, going on to release popular tracks such as “Quinamino” and “My Year.”

Her latest move has drawn praise from fans, many of whom described it as a gesture that puts listeners first. Some compared it to global strategies where artists prioritise reach and fan base growth over immediate revenue.

Azawi herself acknowledged such inspiration, suggesting that accessibility can sometimes be a powerful tool for long-term success.

However, the announcement has also raised concerns within sections of the industry. Critics questioned how producers, songwriters and engineers, who rely on royalties, would benefit under such an arrangement.

Responding to these concerns, Azawi said the decision was made in consultation with her management team and that all parties involved were in agreement.

The timing of her declaration has further intensified the conversation. The amended copyright law aims to strengthen protections for creators, ensure fair compensation and curb piracy, making Azawi’s open access approach both bold and controversial.

For now, her music is freely available for broadcast and public play, a move that has won her admiration from many while also prompting deeper reflection on the balance between accessibility and sustainability in Uganda’s music business.

As the debate continues, industry watchers will be keen to see whether other artists follow her lead or take a more cautious approach under the new legal framework.