Ugandan superstar Eddy Kenzo has reignited his rivalry with Tanzanian artist Diamond Platnumz, claiming he has achieved more prestigious international recognition. In a recent interview with a local television station, Kenzo emphasized that he has performed on larger stages and received awards that Diamond has yet to attain.
Kenzo proudly highlighted his 2015 BET Award win for “Viewer’s Choice Best New International Artist,” making him the first East African artist to win a BET Award of any kind. He further noted his historic 2022 Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Performance for the song “Gimme Love” with Matt B, a first for any Ugandan artist. “I have performed on bigger stages. I have filled stadiums in Guinea, Cameroon, Gabon, and many other countries… I have won a BET award and received a Grammy nomination. He hasn’t done that; how then is he superior to me?” Kenzo stated.
Kenzo’s remarks come in the wake of controversy over Diamond Platnumz’s reported high payment for a recent performance in Uganda, which Kenzo and other local artists felt highlighted disparities in how international and Ugandan acts are treated at major events. Despite Diamond Platnumz’s impressive MTV Europe Music Awards wins and record-breaking YouTube numbers, Kenzo maintains that his BET and Grammy accolades set him apart on the global stage.
