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A Pass: The Journey of Bagonza, His Musical Career, Age, and Family
Alexander A. Pass Bagonza stands out as one of Uganda’s premier Reggae Ragga Dancehall singers and songwriters. Initially signed to Badi Music by video producer Bashir Lukyamuzi, A Pass later ventured out independently.
Bagonza has crafted club hits such as “Tuli Kubigere” and several tracks featured in international movies and club playlists. Notably, his music was part of the soundtrack for the 2017 film “Queen of Katwe.”
Signature songs like “Love Affection,” “Memories,” and “Tuli Kubigere” bear the imprint of A Pass’s songwriting prowess. The stage name “Alexander Pass” reflects a fusion of his last name, Alexander, and his nickname, Percy.
Background and Education
Born on December 21, 1989, A Pass, or Bagonza Alexander, hails from Fort Portal, earning him the moniker “mutoro” from his tribe. His parents, Ronald Mutabazi and Jane Namyalwo, welcomed him as the second child and first son among five siblings.
A Pass attended Nakasero Primary School and Kampala Kindergarten for his primary education. Subsequently, he pursued his O-levels at Maryland, a Seventh-day Adventist school in Entebbe. Later, he enrolled at St. Lawrence Cream Land Campus for his A-levels before delving into the music industry.
Musical Career
A Pass’s passion for music dates back to his childhood, influenced by his father’s musical abilities. While attending high school in Maryland, his love for music intensified, and he began writing gospel songs as he embraced Christianity.
During this period, A Pass made his first studio visit with gospel artist Sseku Martin. Although their initial collaboration was incomplete, A Pass’s exposure to music increased at St. Lawrence, where he met Don Mc, and together they wrote songs for their class and school.
In 2011, A Pass crossed paths with Lukyamuzi Bashir, also known as Badi, a video producer. Badi facilitated A Pass’s entry into various studios for music recording. By 2012, Badi had established BADI MUZIKI studio, where A Pass collaborated with producer Nessim.
The breakout moment for A Pass occurred in 2013 with the release of “Love Infection,” a song that gained mainstream attention, accompanied by a video shot in Tanzania by Badi.
Awards and Nominations
A Pass has received several accolades, including:
- Best New Artist at the HiPipo Music Awards
- Best New Artist and Dancehall Artist at the 2014 Buzz Teeniez Awards
- Best Dancehall Artist at the 2014 Uganda Entertainment Awards
- Best New Artist at the 2015 Rising Star Awards
- Best zouk song at the 2015 HiPipo Awards
- Multiple wins at the 2016 Buzz Teeniez Awards
Nomination:
- Video of the Year at the Sound City MVP Awards
- Best Male Style Artist at the Abryanz Style and Fashion Awards
Selected Discography
- “Mummy” (2018)
- “Mariana” (2017)
- “Chupa ku chupa” (2019)
- “Didadada” (2019)
- “Tuli kubigere” (2013)
- “Guli wano” (2019)
- “Nkwagala” (2019)
- “Mumpulila” (2015)
- “Byange” (2014)
- “Run Bou ya” (2014)
- Collaborations with various artists
Controversies
A Pass has been involved in controversies with fellow artists. His strained relationship with Ykee Benda saw them reconcile and collaborate on the song “Turn up.” Additionally, A Pass has had public disputes with Bebe Cool.
In 2019, he penned a farewell letter to Flavia Tumusiime, his longtime crush, upon learning of her engagement. Rumors of a romantic involvement with Martha Kay fueled tensions with Ykee Benda.
In the dynamic world of Ugandan music, A Pass continues to make a significant impact with his genre-blending style and thought-provoking lyrics.
A Pass Songs
