At just 21 years old, Congolese artist Acress, real name Joel Magwangasa, is using music to spread a powerful message of love, peace and unity through his project, “One Human Race,” a conscious Afrobeat song that has already attracted more than 13,000 views on YouTube.
In this exclusive Blizz Uganda Interview, Acress opens up about his journey, the inspiration behind his music and the woman who first believed in his talent, his late mother, Veronica.
Who Is Acress?
Acress: I am Acress, real name Joel Magwangasa, a 21-year-old Congolese artist based in Kansanga, Kampala. I make Afrobeat, Afro-fusion and conscious music. My music is about unity, love and hope, and I represent the ghetto youth.
How Did Your Music Journey Begin?
Acress: I discovered music about six years ago through my late mother, Veronica. She was my first fan and even taught me how to sing in church. She was like my vocal coach, and she always believed that music could heal people.
Tell Us About Your New Song, ‘One Human Race’
Acress: The song was released in August 2026 and has now reached over 13,000 views on YouTube. It was produced by Lega Boy, and I wrote it myself.
The inspiration came from my late mother Veronica and the tribalism and division I have seen as a Congolese refugee living in Uganda. The message is simple: we are all one blood, one people, One Human Race.
What Makes Your Music Different?
Acress: I mix my Congolese roots with Ugandan Afrobeat and tell real stories from Kansanga and the ghetto. There is no fake life in my music—only truth.
I want to bring a message of unity and peace that can bring refugees and Ugandans together as one family.
Which Artists Have Influenced You?
Acress: My biggest influences include Radio & Weasel, Bobi Wine, Burna Boy and 2Baba.
What’s Next For Acress?
Acress: I am preparing the official video for “One Human Race”, working on more music with Lega Boy and looking forward to performing at more shows in Kampala.
What Is Your Message To Your Fans?
Acress: To everyone who pushed One Human Race to over 13,000 views, thank you! Kansanga, Congo and Uganda, you gave me hope. Mama Veronica would be proud.
Thank you to Lega Boy for believing in me.
And to everyone discovering me through Blizz Uganda, I am Acress from Kansanga. If you believe in love, unity and peace, then you are already part of my family.
Watch “One Human Race” Below;
