Ugandan songstress Esther Kirabo Nsubuga, born and raised in Sweden, is banking on collaborative efforts between Ugandan and Swedish artists to expand her audience.

Kirabo, who graced the stage at Motiv on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, alongside rapper Timbukutu and the jazz band Masaka Trio, expressed her joy at performing in her homeland for the first time after years in Sweden.

Reflecting on her musical journey of over a decade in Sweden, where she curated her own shows and participated in festivals, Kirabo shared her excitement with The New Vision about creating her own audience in Uganda. During her stay in the country, she aims to forge connections with Ugandan artists, particularly emphasizing potential collaborations with Navio, Joshua Baraka, and Sol Child.

"I have been singing for over ten years in Sweden, doing my own shows and festivals. Coming home feels like homecoming. In Sweden, have my own shows and festivals and now that I have touched base here, got to know more people, and made connections to several Ugandan artists, I am hopeful that I will have collabos with Ugandans and also invite them in Sweden for some of my shows," Kirabo said.

While she is Ugandan, Kirabo predominantly sings in Swedish and English, a factor that might pose a challenge in resonating with the local audience. Despite this, she remains optimistic that collaborations with Ugandan artists, including her highlighted choices, will pave the way for her unique music style in Uganda.

Kirabo disclosed plans for an upcoming concert in Kampala, intending to bring together a diverse audience of Ugandan and Swedish attendees. This initiative seeks to strengthen the cultural ties between the two nations, extending the musical exchange to Sweden. Grateful for the opportunity to perform in Uganda, Kirabo acknowledged the support of the Embassy of Sweden in Uganda and Selam, a Swedish organization dedicated to promoting art and culture, for organizing the show.

Recognized for her captivating hits such as "Kill U," "Blunt," "Don't Lie," and "Sustained Love," Kirabo has garnered acclaim, including a notable performance of her song "Kill You" at the 2018 Grammis. The Grammis awards annually honor outstanding musicians and songwriters in Sweden.