02 May 2024

• His musical journey began in 1996 as a DJ at a nightclub in Kampala.

Joseph Mayanja, popularly known as Jose Chameleone, a musician from Uganda, has explained the reasons for acknowledging Kenya as his eternal mother in his life's history.

The artist, who earlier this week revealed turning 45 years old, has been celebrating at various functions and also through his online platforms.

Chameleone said that although Uganda is like his father, Kenya will always hold a place in his life as a mother, as it is where his music journey began in the early 2000s.

"I congratulate Jose Chameleone and Joseph Mayanja. One is my boss and the other is a boy from Kawempe to the world. I SALUTE all of you, Uganda is my Father, Kenya my Mother, Tanzania, South Sudan, Zambia, Rwanda, DR CONGO!!! AFRICA - Rest is HITSTORY✌🏾 @45 I have all the reasons to thank for my blessings. Alhamdulillah," Chameleone wrote in one of his posts.

Joseph Mayanja was born on April 30, 1979, to Gerald and Prossy Mayanja in Kampala district, Uganda, as the fourth child among eight siblings.

Chameleone's music is a fine blend of Ugandan people, Central African rumba, zouk, and reggae.

His musical journey began in 1996 as a DJ at a nightclub in Kampala.

He transitioned to the position of a musician in 1998 when he moved to Kenya and collaborated with Ogopa Deejays, a Kenyan record label, which released his first song "Bageya" featuring Kenyan artist Redsan.

For many years, Chameleone has released several successful songs including "Mama Mia," "Mambo Bado," "Jamila," "Kipepeo," "Bageya," "Shida za Dunia," "Bayuda," and "Njo Karibu."

While his music thrives across the whole of Africa, his biggest fans come from Central Africa, particularly in countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Since the release of his first album in 2000, Chameleone has launched a total of 13 albums. The artist stated that he will cease celebrating his birthdays for the next five years until he turns 50.