Dre Cali is Breaking Through!

The 26-year-old budding star talks 'Afro cali', Mozey Radio's influence on his sound, and more!

In an era where music, just like every business, is less about how it makes the listeners feel, and more about its impact on the balance sheet, it’s hard for good artists to break out. But, in the wake of the pandemic, music is becoming an escape, and more than ever, we are falling in love with music before we even know the artists behind them.

Dre Cali, real names Katende Andrew Stephen, is a new gem, with a sound that’s uniquely different, reminiscent of the Late Mozey Radio. The 26-year-old graduate of Civil and Environment is signed to Mpaka Records, the buzzy record label founded by Ykee Benda, and his style is a fusion of reggae and dancehall, although he prefers to refer to it as ‘Afro Cali‘.

We talk to the singer about his style, the impact of the pandemic and more.

Lockdown has been rough, but it has been tougher on artists. How are you keeping yourself sane and productive?

Well, for me, lockdown has been a blessing in disguise. I’ve had a lot of great things that have happened to me during this difficult time. I’m using the time to record more music. I’m also reflecting more on my religious side. These two things have kept me sane and productive.

Your song ‘Ekifuba’ is doing really well. But, let’s talk about the ‘Domestic Violence’ message in it. What inspired that part of your art?

Domestic violence is so personal to me, I was inspired by a lot of stories I’ve heard, and those I’ve seen with my own eyes. So, I’ve always wanted to pass a message that communicates my views on domestic violence in an artistic way. When I got the chance I did, and I feel satisfied that I made it happen. No one should raise a hand against another human being, its utterly wrong.

Your sound is, almost all the time, compared to the late Mozey Radio’s. How does this make you feel?

Honestly, I’m always flattered when I hear this, to say the least. We know how enthralling Mozey Radio’s voice was. This automatically insinuates that my sound is a quality one. It also makes me feel content that I’m doing the right thing. But, I know, with time, and after listening more projects from me, people will be able to notice the difference between my and Mozey’s sound.

Actually, the similarity could be stemming from the cutting-edge lyricism Mozey had and one I also exhibit. So, because of that they draw the similarity.

How much or little did Mozey Radio influence you as an artist?

Too much because he got his break just at the time, I began enjoying music so much, especially Ugandan music. He was the new kid on the block with a very unmatched sound. So, I listened mostly to him and him alone for over 8 years enjoying every other tune he dropped back to back. Sadly, I never got the chance to met him.

Let’s talk about Mpaka Records, your record label. How did you feel about getting signed to it?

The feeling was awesome. For the first time in my quest to become a successful musician I felt like I was headed in the right direction. I have a wonderful relationship with Ykee Benda – We share a mentor – mentee relationship… We also share a big bro – kid bro kind of relationship. He is an excellent personality, and I look up to him a lot.

You took some time to gain ground. What could be the reason for this, considering how immensely talented you are.

I don’t just think, I know I’m talented, although not to the exaggerated heights people put me at. But yeah, I took some time to gain ground and I was fine with it because good things take time… They are just like fine wine, it’s gets better with age.

Why do you think it is okay for artists to take some time before they break out?

Like I said good things take time so yeaah it’s not wrong to take some time and gain ground with very good sound.