Congolese-born artist ACRESS is carving out a place in Uganda’s music industry with songs that combine Afrobeat, Afro-fusion and conscious music with messages about unity, peace and social integration.
The 21-year-old musician, whose real name is Joel Magwangasa, is based in Kansanga, Kampala, where his experiences as a refugee have influenced both his artistry and the issues he addresses through music.
Speaking out to Blizz Uganda, ACRESS says his musical journey began about six years ago through his late mother, Veronica, who introduced him to singing and supported his early performances in church.
“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.”
His background has since shaped an artistic identity focused on storytelling, social commentary and the experiences of young people living in urban communities.
Musically, ACRESS blends his Congolese roots with contemporary Ugandan sounds. He lists Radio & Weasel, Bobi Wine, Burna Boy and 2Baba among the artists who have influenced his vocal and songwriting approach.
In August 2026, ACRESS released “One Human Race,” a single produced by Ugandan producer Lega Boy.
The song confronts tribalism and social division, drawing inspiration from ACRESS’ own experiences as a Congolese refugee living in Uganda and the influence of his late mother.
“The inspiration came from my late mother Veronica and the tribalism and division I have seen as a Congolese refugee living in Uganda,” ACRESS said.
The artist says the song carries a message of shared humanity, while also reflecting his approach of combining Congolese musical influences with Ugandan Afrobeat.
According to the information provided, “One Human Race” has attracted thousands of views on YouTube and received airplay on local Kampala media networks since its release.
ACRESS is now preparing an official music video for the song and plans to continue recording with Lega Boy as he works to expand his live performances across Uganda.
Beyond music, the emerging artist says he wants his platform to contribute to greater harmony between refugee communities and their host communities, using his personal experiences and music to encourage social cohesion.
