Elijah Kitaka


Elijah Kitaka is a Ugandan singer, songwriter, drummer, and multi-instrumentalist signed to the Swangz Avenue record label. Prior to launching his career as a vocalist, Kitaka was already a professional session drummer for many of the country's top artists.
His music is a blend of Afro-soul and R&B. He gained public attention with his debut singles under Swangz Avenue, including "Ndi Wuwo" and "Nothing."

Early life and career

Elijah Kitaka was raised in a family with a musical background; his father was a bass guitarist, and his mother was a singer in a church choir. He began playing drums at the age of seven at his local church.
He pursued music professionally as a session drummer. For over a decade, he performed and toured with a wide range of Ugandan artists, including Bebe Cool, Maurice Kirya, Lilian Mbabazi, A Pass, and his future label-mate, Azawi. His work as a drummer provided him with extensive experience in live performance and music arrangement.

Solo career with Swangz Avenue (2023–present)

In July 2023, Swangz Avenue officially unveiled Elijah Kitaka as their new artist, marking his transition from a session musician to a lead vocalist. He was the first male artist signed to the label. His signing was announced with the release of his first single under the label, "Nothing."
Later in 2023, he released his debut extended play titled Bedroom Essentials. The seven-track EP included the singles "Nothing," "Ndi Wuwo", and "Contagious." The song "Ndi Wuwo" gained significant airplay on Ugandan radio stations and helped to establish his presence as a solo artist.
Since his debut, Kitaka has performed on major stages in Kampala, including opening for Azawi at her 2023 concert and performing at the popular "Roast and Rhyme" festival.

Artistry

Kitaka is a multi-instrumentalist, proficient with the drums, guitar, and piano, which informs his approach to songwriting and production. His musical style is primarily contemporary R&B and Afro-soul. Critics and commentators have noted his smooth vocal delivery and the soulful, often romantic, nature of his lyrics. His background as a live performer and drummer is often highlighted as a key aspect of his artistry, giving him a deep understanding of rhythm and musical arrangement.

Discography

Extended plays (EPs)

  • ''Bedroom Essentials''

Selected singles

  • "Nothing"
  • "Ndi Wuwo"
  • "Contagious"
  • "Elevated"