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Gerald Muwonge, also recognized as Clever J, is a multi-talented Ugandan artist involved in recording, producing, arranging, and composing music. His track “Wanzi Wanani,” released in 2007, created significant ripples in the early 2000s Ugandan music scene.
Clever J, born Joseph Mayanja, boasts a voice reminiscent of his cousin Jose Chameleone, gaining fame after the release of “Manzi Wanani” in 2007. Raised in Uganda by Mr. John Bukenya and the late Rosemary Nalujja, he was partially brought up by Gerald Mayanja and Proscovia Musoke, Jose Chameleone’s parents.
His educational journey took him to Kasanga Victoria School, Jinja Kalooli Girls School (until P.4), Holy Family School (P.5 to P.7), Standard High School Kawempe, and Nagalama Islamic Institute. Unfortunately, a fire during his third year in high school led to the loss of support from his Mayanja family cousins, leading to the end of his formal education.
Clever J embarked on his music career in 1994, recording initial songs at the Leone Island record label owned by Dr. Jose Chameleone. His 2006 album “Manzi Wanani” marked a significant milestone. Despite later setbacks, including a hiatus and unsuccessful attempts at a comeback, he resumed his musical journey in 2020, announcing a comeback after a successful concert.
However, Clever J faced challenges in regaining musical prominence, eventually leading to speculation that he had shifted his focus to bricklaying in Buloba, on the outskirts of Kampala. In March 2021, his former manager MP Jesus revealed that Clever J had sold his home studio to start a welding store and had embraced a Born Again Christian lifestyle.
Clever J attributed his musical decline to changes in the industry, emphasizing the shift from songs with meaningful messages to those created for entertainment purposes. He expressed disappointment in unpaid concert appearances and pointed to a lack of lasting impact in contemporary music.
A significant reconciliation occurred when Clever J and Jose Chameleone resolved their long-standing feud at a comedy show organized by Ugandan comedian and Comedy Store Uganda owner, Alex Muhangi. Chameleone acknowledged Clever J’s talent and contributions to Uganda’s music industry, putting an end to their estrangement.
Among Clever J’s notable songs are “Mukama,” “Buluma Akuze,” “Bakwagala Olina,” “Pineapple,” “Sio Balid Mbongo,” “Fanya Kazi,” “Essanyu Lya Marembo,” “Ye Wuyo Webale Butanswaza,” and many others.
In a surprising turn, Clever J sought reconciliation with the Mayanja family in 2020, offering apologies for past grievances and seeking their blessings once again.
Clever J Songs
