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Azawi, Levixone, and the Ghetto Kids picked up nominations each at the inaugural Trace Awards which celebrate African excellence and diversity across the different music genres.
Although none of the three were successful in their respective categories, the artists were hailed for representing their country well.
“We have to celebrate and appreciate our very own Levixone and Azawi for making it to the big stage,” said Eddy Kenzo, the federation president at their weekly jam session on Tuesday.
“We thank you for what you did for the country.”
Kenzo’s deputy Sheebah Karungi also weighed in, calling on the rest of the artists to celebrate one another whenever there are milestones like this.
“A win for you is a win for all of us; we love you and we appreciate you," she said.
Speaking at the Jam Session, Levixone expressed gratitude to his colleagues for celebrating him.
The singer, who was nominated in the Best Gospel Artist category, said even though he did not win the award, he felt humbled being on the same stage along with some of Africa’s greatest in the industry.
“It was an honor to be nominated in the same category as people who came before us such as Benjamin Dude,” he said.
Levixone also emphasized the need for Ugandan musicians to lift one another before they can expect to be recognized around the world.
“In Kigali I was sitting with artists who showed me messages they received from the presidents of their countries wishing them good luck in their awards,” he said.
“It is very important therefore, that before the world celebrates us, we have to celebrate ourselves first.”