Ugandan rap icon GNL Zamba, also known as Ernest Nsimbi, has expressed his belief that his recent inclusion in the 2023 Grammy Academy Member Class, along with his wife Miriam Tamar, will greatly facilitate the promotion of Ugandan art on the global market.
The news of GNL and his wife’s induction into the Grammy Academy was shared last week, with both receiving separate invitations as solo artists and as a duo.
As members of the academy, the couple will actively participate in various Grammy Awards selection processes, including casting votes, reviewing submissions, and influencing the nomination of candidates, among other engagements.
The Recording Academy, known for its prestigious Grammy Awards, is a music organization composed of producers, recording engineers, musicians, and other professionals dedicated to enhancing the quality of music and supporting its creators.
The decision to include GNL and his wife coincided with the academy’s introduction of three new categories for the Grammy Awards, including “Best African Performances.”
When asked about the impact of their membership on Uganda’s art industry, GNL emphasized that it would facilitate greater advocacy for Ugandan art globally.
“This opportunity allows us to advocate more effectively for Ugandan art, leading to increased representation and recognition, shining a spotlight on deserving artists who create beautiful and meaningful art,” he explained.
Last year, Eddy Kenzo, known as Edirisa Musuuza, received a nomination in the 2023 Grammy Awards for the “Best Global Music Performance” category. Kenzo’s collaboration with American singer Matt B on the song “Gimme Love” earned them the nomination.
However, they lost the award to South Africa’s Wouter Kellerman, Zakes Bantwini, and Nomcebo Zikode for their song “Bayethe.” It is worth noting that Kenzo is not a member of the academy, while Matt B holds a membership.