If there’s a rollout that has shaped the future of local music releases, it’s definitely Bebe Cool’s.
He is set to release his highly anticipated album, Break the Chains, later this year and has already dropped two singles from it: Circumference, which came out at the beginning of the year, and his latest track, Motivation.
To mark the release, Bebe Cool launched what he calls Motivation Week, an annual event that will take place in the week following Valentine’s Day. During a roundtable discussion with various media personalities, he officially announced the release of Motivation, the second single from his upcoming album.
One thing that has kept Bebe Cool at the top of his game over the years is his ability to adapt. From embracing Bax-Ragga in 2016 to jumping on the Amapiano wave, he has consistently proven he is not a one-trick pony. His forthcoming album, Break the Chains, reinforces this versatility.
At least judging by the two songs released so far, Bebe Cool has taken Afrobeats by storm, leaving no stone unturned.
Produced by his longtime collaborator Bushington (real name George Kagoda) and Melanin Boy, Motivation is a mellow Afrobeats track that expresses a man’s deep thoughts about the love of his life.
Given the song’s rollout which included motivational talks and a roundtable discussion—one might expect it to focus on Bebe Cool’s struggles and triumphs. However, Motivation delivers a beautifully crafted love story instead.
Bebe Cool takes a softer approach on this track. Unlike Circumference, which many Ugandans felt was difficult to connect with, Motivation strikes a balance between the artist Bebe Cool wants to be and the one Ugandans have known for the past 25 years.
While the song lacks reggae or dancehall influences, Bebe Cool’s signature presence is unmistakable. It evokes memories of his past hits like Freedom and Love You Everyday.
Motivation is catchy—an earworm that lingers in your mind. You might find yourself unconsciously humming, “my motivation…,” even if you don’t remember the lyrics that follow.
The Motivation music video was directed by Garrick Williams and Bushington. Williams, who also directed Circumference, brings the same finesse to this visual. The video is vibrant and continues the mysterious theme of veiled women introduced in Circumference, though not as prominently.
Using creative imagery and unconventional casting, the video emphasizes that true love isn’t defined by appearances. The choice of Bebe Cool’s love interest a heavily tattooed woman reinforces this message. A significant part of the video portrays them as partners, both romantically and in business, making important decisions together.
The song’s audio was mixed by Brian Putaralski and mastered by Jesse Ray, with Anel Lukwago and Anko Ronnie serving as studio engineers.
Motivation is currently streaming on all major music platforms.