Sheebah Karungi believes she is still a mainstay in the music industry because she does things her super-talented counterparts don’t.
“Art is how unique you are,” said Karungi, who mostly goes by Queen Sheebah in an interview with NRG Radio.“That’s why till today they say, she can’t sing but every time I release a song it goes number one. Because there is some uniqueness in what I’m doing and apart from that, I invest time and effort and I work hard, and trust me, I’ll beat that talent that doesn’t work hard.”
Who is Sheebah Karungi?
Sheebah Karungi, also known by her stage name Queen Sheebah, was born on November 11, 1989, in Kampala, Uganda.
Raised by a single mother, Edith Kabazungu, in the division of Kawempe, Sheebah’s early life was marked by financial hardships.
With her mother struggling to provide for her and her siblings through manual labor in coffee factories, Sheebah made the bold decision to drop out of school at the age of 15.
This decision was driven by a desire to alleviate the financial burden on her family and pursue her passion for dance. She initially joined the Stingerz dance group before moving on to the Obsessions Music Group in 2006, where her interest in music began to flourish.
Musical career and achievements
Sheebah Karungi’ssolo’s career took off after leaving Obsessions. Her first breakthrough came with the release of her hit single Ice Cream in 2014, which was part of her debut EP of the same name. This project, alongside singles like Automatic and Twesana, solidified her position in the Ugandan music industry.
Sheebah has released several successful albums, including Nkwatako (2016), Karma (2017), and Samalie (2021), featuring hits like Nsekula, Tuvunya, and Sweet Sensation.
Over the years, Sheebah has received numerous awards and nominations, highlighting her impact and contribution to music. She has been recognized at the Uganda Music Awards, Zzina Awards, HiPipo Music Awards, and internationally at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards.
Her music and videos have also been celebrated for their style and fashion, earning her nominations in these categories as well.
Activism, business ventures and acting
Beyond her musical talents, Sheebah has shown a keen interest in activism, particularly in supporting women’s rights. She is a proud feminist and has initiated various projects to aid women, including the production of ‘Holic Pads’ through her Sheebah Establishment Company.
In addition to her activism, Sheebah has ventured into business, launching Sheebah By Natna Hair and Sheebah Collections, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit.
Sheebah’s versatility extends to acting as well, with her debut in the film Queen of Katwe, where she played the role of Shakira.
This role allowed her to demonstrate her acting skills, adding another facet to her already impressive career.
Education and personal insights
Sheebah’s educational journey was cut short when she dropped out in senior two, a decision driven by her family’s financial struggles and her ambition to pursue a career in the arts. Despite this, she has shown remarkable resilience and determination, transforming her challenges into opportunities.
Legacy and influence
Sheebah Karungi’s journey from a struggling dancer to a celebrated artist and activist is a testament to her talent, hard work, and dedication. Her music not only entertains but also inspires, particularly young women in Uganda and beyond.
Sheebah remains a significant figure in the Ugandan entertainment industry, celebrated for her contributions to music, fashion, and women’s rights.
As Sheebah continues to evolve as an artist and entrepreneur, her story serves as an inspiring example of overcoming adversity and achieving greatness through perseverance and creativity. Her legacy is not just in her music but also in her impact on society, making her a true icon of Ugandan culture.
