The Cartel Bizness EP Listening Party lit up Silo 15, Bugolobi on Sunday, July 20th, 2025, with an unforgettable night of music, fashion, and cultural storytelling. From the moment the sun dipped behind the Kampala skyline, it became clear that this was no ordinary event; it was a creative revolution.
Revellers began arriving as early as 8 PM, filling the venue with anticipation. With foreign stars like Bensoul and Mike Kayihura already in town, the energy was electric. By 10 PM, the listening officially began. Renowned producer Axon and DJ Bugy took charge, guiding the audience through the EP track by track.
The night’s hosts, Hypeman Cartel and Icy Sonia, brought the energy. After each track, they invited the featured artists and executive producer Troy Elimu to reflect on the creative process and share the stories behind the music. What followed was a unique fusion of live commentary and musical insight that allowed the audience to connect with the project deeply.
The EP opened with Pray, a soulful collaboration between Bensoul and Elijah Kitaka. Bensoul explained that the track was born out of a realisation that many artists only turn to prayer during difficult moments. Elijah, who grew up in church, emphasised the importance of gratitude and giving credit to God. A Pass, who was seated in the audience, called it a beautiful and necessary song.
The second track, Nsangi, featuring Tungi and Jokwiz Klean, transported listeners to the heart of Ugandan culture. Troy explained that it was inspired by memories of grandparents telling folk tales, a nostalgic attempt to preserve oral storytelling through music.
Cartel Bizness EP is more than Music
Next came Doctor, an infectious blend of talent from Mike Kayihura, Elijah Kitaka, and Bensoul. The song’s playful energy and genre-bending sound were met with enthusiastic nods from the crowd, and it marked a turning point in the atmosphere as the party gained momentum.
Track four, Niggas in Fashion, featuring Soundlykbb and Tai Dai, brought the house down with its unapologetic confidence and flair. The song doubled as a tribute to fashion as expression and art.
The fifth song, Easy, featured A Pass and Mike Kayihura. It slowed things down and leaned into smooth melodies and relaxed vibes. A Pass delivered his verses with ease and precision, while Mike’s vocals carried the song’s laid-back charm.
Finally, the EP closed with its title track, Cartel Bizness. This explosive collaboration featured Big Tril, Mike Kayihura, Jokwiz Klean, and Elijah Kitaka. The energy in the room reached its peak, leaving a lasting impression of unity and power. The track served as a strong finale and an embodiment of the collective spirit behind the project.
To cap off the night, Kenya’s Bensoul returned to the stage to perform fan favourites like Viva La Vida and Extra Pressure. The crowd sang and danced along, fully immersed in the celebration.
Throughout the evening, the Cartel Bizness EP Listening Party proved that music in East Africa is entering a new era. Troy Elimu expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed, saying that Cartel Bizness is not just about music, but about vision, collaboration, and cultural pride. He credited Axon for his dedication and creative leadership, and acknowledged the extraordinary talent that brought the project to life.
