Ugandan rising artist Uncle Chumi has ignited a storm in the music industry by demanding UGX 30 million in compensation from Spice Diana and her manager, Roger.
Her claim? Unauthorized use of her original song Gwokute Gwobba in a remix that briefly appeared on Spice Diana’s YouTube channel.
Though the remix has since been taken down, Uncle Chumi insists the damage is already done. Speaking to local media, she emphasized that the song represented her hope for a breakthrough in both her personal and artistic life.
“I request they compensate me with UGX 30 million. I’ll use part of it to honor my late parents and give some to those who’ve supported me,” she stated passionately.
Beyond financial loss, Chumi claims the ordeal has led to emotional distress. She accuses Roger of launching coordinated online attacks to discredit her character and undermine her reputation. Despite the backlash, Chumi remains defiant.
“I told Roger I can farm, drive a taxi, even ride a boda. Music is not my only path,” she added.
Her demand for compensation isn’t just about money — it’s about respect and justice in an industry where upcoming artists often feel overshadowed or exploited by bigger names.
Spice Diana Responds
Pop star Spice Diana has responded to the growing controversy, asserting that she pulled down the remix of Gwokute Gwobba after receiving negative feedback from her fans, known as the Spice Gadgets.
“People say the remix was doing well, but it wasn’t on radio or TV. That’s not success to me,” Spice explained.
Chumi's song was not playing on TV or radio – Spice Diana speaks out after falling out with Gwokute gwobba hit-maker.#Jikonkone pic.twitter.com/Pqvi6BdqpC
— Galaxy TV Jikonkone (@GalaxyTVUg) April 10, 2025
She also revealed that the remix’s royalties were fully registered under Uncle Chumi’s name, implying she had nothing to gain financially from the collaboration.
“I wasn’t earning anything from it. It was her song, her royalties,” Spice said, dismissing the uproar as unnecessary drama.
Still, the dispute raises larger questions about copyright respect, fair compensation, and how power dynamics in Uganda’s music industry can tip unfairly against lesser-known artists.
While some fans have sided with Spice, others are urging the Ugandan music fraternity to foster more transparency and mentorship, especially for new talent like Chumi.
As of now, no legal action has been confirmed, but Chumi insists she won’t back down until she receives what she believes she’s owed.
“I’m not stupid. I just need help to get justice,” she concluded.
Whether this ends in court or a private settlement, the case shines a light on the complex intersection of talent, fame, and fairness in Uganda’s entertainment world.
