Spoiler Alert: Feffe Bussi, the renowned rapper Frank Mukiza, has released his latest album, The Paragon, but don’t expect a typical hip-hop collection. Of the 16 tracks, only three can be categorized as hip-hop/rap, and none feature a fellow rapper. Let’s dive into the eclectic mix that defines this album.
What does Feffe Bussi say about The Paragon album?
Feffe Bussi, often dubbed “The Smallest Rapper” and a multiple hip-hop award winner, has always set high expectations with his releases. The title The Paragon suggests a model of perfection, raising the bar even higher for his fans. After reading this article, you can listen to the album here.
First Impressions:
The album kicks off with an intriguing introduction where Feffe Bussi takes on the role of a taxi tout, calling out destinations like “Wandegeya, Kamwokya, Bukoto.” This vivid depiction of Kampala’s bustling public transportation scene sets the mood perfectly, much like lighting scented candles at a romantic dinner. The intro includes a nod to Tupac Shakur, adding a layer of depth and bravado.
A Track-by-Track Exploration of The Album
1. Beautiful to Me (ft. Lillian Mbabazi):
The second track offers a soothing love song featuring Lillian Mbabazi. The soft, laid-back melody combined with Mbabazi’s occasional Ikinyarwanda lyrics creates a beautiful love symphony that resonates deeply.
2. Tell a Friend:
This track shifts gears with loud drumbeats and fast-paced rhythms typical of Ugandan-ragga dancehall, known locally as Kidandali. Celebrating success, this high-energy song has the potential to be a major hit on the Ugandan charts.
3. Most Wanted:
For the hip-hop purists, “Most Wanted” showcases Feffe Bussi’s lyrical prowess. He asserts his dominance in the rap game with authority before transitioning back to dancehall with “Tayagalika,” which explores themes of love and appreciation—or the lack thereof—for the less fortunate.
Guest Features and Genre Fusion
High Tempo Collaborations:
Feffe Bussi maintains the high tempo with collaborations such as “Jigi jigi” featuring Ykee Benda. This pattern continues with tracks like “Nobody,” “Mama Naki,” and “Skia Disco,” before mixing in a trap/rap fusion with “Rose.”
Party Culture:
Another standout is “Party Culture,” featuring Nina Roz, John Blaq, Coco Finger, and Karole Kasita. This track keeps the dancehall vibe alive, ensuring listeners are constantly engaged.
Ghetto (ft. Nubian Li):
In “Ghetto,” Feffe Bussi and Nubian Li address the struggles and motivations of life in the ghetto, adding a socio-political layer to the album.
Personal Favorites and Overall Take
Top Picks:
“Mbabalira” stands out with its strong Afrobeat influence, likely to become a fan favorite. The album concludes with “Bestie,” a soothing track featuring Karole Kasita, which leaves listeners on a high note. “Tell a Friend” is another track worth sharing for its infectious energy.
Final Thoughts:
The Paragon is a testament to the sacrifices rappers make to stay relevant in the ever-evolving music industry. Feffe Bussi skillfully blends genres to cater to the mass market while retaining his unique identity. This album is not just a collection of songs but a reflection of the artist’s versatility and commitment to his craft.
