Iryn Namubiru’s story is one of dazzling highs and devastating lows.
However, her recent appearance on Tusker Malt Conversessions revealed the true depth of her pain, betrayal, and broken family ties.
This raw and emotional journey offered a glimpse into the singer’s past, revealing a story both heartbreaking and eye-opening.
Eleven Years of Separation from Her Mother
The most shocking revelation? Iryn’s confession about severing ties with her family, including her mother.
“I have not spoken with my mother in eleven years,” she revealed, stunning viewers.
This statement set the stage for a deep dive into the events following the infamous 2013 Japan incident.
That incident, where she was arrested at Tokyo’s Narita International Airport after drugs were found in her luggage, changed everything.

The Japan Incident and Its Aftermath
On Conversessions, Iryn explained how her then-manager, Tedius, orchestrated the setup. Upon discovering his betrayal, she fired him.
Unfortunately, this was just the beginning. Her mother’s reaction proved even more devastating. Instead of support, Iryn says her mother’s behavior became suspicious.
Her initial indifference turned into defensiveness, even before any accusations were made. Through phone recordings and further investigations, Iryn uncovered a devastating truth about her own mother.
A Story Yet Untold
Iryn has documented everything in a manuscript, choosing not to publish it yet. However, she hinted at a future revelation.
Should anything happen to her, she will instruct the release of the recordings and written accounts. This ensures her story, her truth, will eventually come to light.
The Weight of Betrayal
Iryn also opened up about why she stepped away from music. “I have been dead (figuratively) for over eleven years now,” she admitted.
The weight of betrayal and public scrutiny drained her passion. “People you count on, people you trust, people you think are your everything—your heroes—can end up being the same people who destroy you, who really kill you,” she reflected.
“People say words don’t kill, but words do kill, especially in a society like ours where you cannot talk about certain things.”

Tracking the Haters
Iryn hasn’t remained silent. She revealed she’s been tracking online comments, saving insults and conspiracies. She’s even tracing IP addresses to identify those behind the targeted attacks.
These revelations have been shocking, she said. She continues to archive her findings, waiting for the right moment to expose the truth.
The “Balance the Boat” Accident
Her trials extended beyond betrayal and industry politics.
She recounted her near-death experience during the 2018 Lake Victoria boat accident. That day, she recalled, all signs pointed to her staying home.
Yet, she ignored them and went along with a friend’s invitation.
“I heard a voice saying, ‘You will reach, don’t panic, don’t scream, you won’t die.’ If this is not God, then I don’t know,” she said, reflecting on her miraculous escape. This experience solidified her faith.
Celebrating Ugandan Music with Tusker Malt Conversessions

Elizabeth Mutamuliza, Head of Beer, UBL, shared the vision behind the season. “Tusker Malt has always been about celebrating true craftsmanship,” she explained. “With Season 3, we wanted to go beyond the music and explore the depth of artistry, the sacrifices, the passion, and the real stories behind the craft.”
A Powerful Performance
Despite the pain, Iryn’s voice remains as angelic and powerful as ever. She closed the episode with a stunning performance of Tebiba Bingi.
She also sang Nkwagala Nyoo, Nkuweki, Nsonyiwa, Birowoozo, and Kabi Ki, each song a nostalgic reminder of her talent and legacy.
As Tusker Malt Conversessions continues, audiences can expect more breathtaking performances and eye-opening conversations. Stay tuned!
Related: Keko Opens Up About Life in Canada, Struggles, and Her Passion for Music