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Pallaso: Overview of Pius Mayanja’s Life, Age, Family, and Music Career
Pallaso, also known as Pius Mayanja, is a versatile artist from Uganda, recognized as a singer, songwriter, producer, and videographer. His musical repertoire spans various genres, including afro pop, afrobeat hip hop, dancehall, and R&B. Fluent in Luganda, English, and Swahili, Pallaso adds a distinctive flavor to his lyrics. His journey in the music industry commenced in 2000 as a member of Leone Island, a group managed by his brother, Jose Chameleon. Pallaso later relocated to the United States in 2005, spending a decade there before returning to Uganda in 2014. Subsequently, he became part of TNS under Jeff Kiwa’s management for a brief period before founding his own group, Team Good Music.
Early Life and Education
Born on September 5, 1987, at Mulago Hospital to Gerald Mayanja and Prossy Mayanja, Pallaso is the third of seven siblings. His family has a significant presence in the Ugandan music industry, with his brothers Chameleon, Weasel Manizo, and the late AK 47 also being musicians. Pallaso’s educational journey began at Happy Hours Nursery and Primary School. He continued his studies at Mengo Senior School and Kasawo Secondary School for O-levels, followed by St. Augustine College, Wakiso, for A-levels. Later, he pursued his education in the United States, completing high school and obtaining a diploma from the College of Direct Studies in Pennsylvania.
Music Career
Pallaso’s musical endeavors started in 2000 as part of Leone Island, adopting the stage name Lizard. In 2003, he released his first single, “Mudigidde,” produced by his brother Chameleon. In 2005, he relocated to the United States, continuing his music career and undergoing a name change from Lizard to Pallaso. Collaborating with rapper The Mess from Lewiston, Maine, he released the album “Change” in 2013.
Upon returning to Uganda in 2014, Pallaso collaborated with Radio and Weasel on the hit song “Amaaso,” rejuvenating his music career. Subsequently, he released solo albums like “Weekoledewo Kaki” and “Omugongo.” Following the breakup of Goodlyf with manager Jeff Kiwa, Pallaso formed Team No Sleep (TNS) and collaborated with artists like Sheeba Kalungi and King Saha.
Awards and Nominations
Pallaso has received recognition and accolades for his contributions to the music industry, including:
- Hipipo Awards for Best Artist in the Diaspora and Flyest Music Video (2014)
- Buzz Teeniez Awards for Hottest Riddim and Hottest Collaboration (2014)
- Rising Star Awards for Hottest Collaboration (2014)
- Zzina Awards nominations for Artist of the Year and Best Collaboration (2015)
Notable Songs
Pallaso’s discography includes an array of songs, such as “Move Around,” “Change,” “Amaaso,” “Mundongo,” “Go Down Low,” “Tamale Mirundi,” and “Twatoba,” featuring Nigerian musician Davido.
Family and Personal Life
Pallaso is the father of two mixed-race children, Maisha Mayanja and Danari Mayanja, with their mother residing in the United States.
Controversies
Pallaso has faced controversies, including an attack in South Africa amid xenophobic violence and altercations with politicians such as Kato Lubwama. He also got into a physical altercation with the police in Makindye, Uganda, over alleged violations of COVID-19 SOPs. Additionally, tensions arose within the Goodlyf crew, and Pallaso clashed with Jeff Kiwa regarding the death of his brother, AK 47.
