Phina Masanyalaze release new single "Funya”

Phina Masanyalaze, the dancehall queen of the "Fundukululu" and "Bampasudde" fame is back.

Phina, who also serves as the General Secretary to the Uganda Musicians Association just released a new single titled “Funya.”

Produced by Producer Davie and written by Teketwe Joseph, the song was released earlier last week.

The banger brings back the danceable beats you loved, with Phina urging listeners to "Kufunya" their troubles and get moving.

Phina Mugerwa Masanyalaze pulse uganda

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The song is all about the irresistible urge to dance, telling even those demanding your time or money to wait. Phina uses a banana metaphor to represent how even the stiffest back can't resist the rhythm.

For fans who miss the original Phina Masanyalaze of the mid-2000s, "FUNYA" delivers that same high-energy Ugandan Shakira vibe.

While "FUNYA" marks a return to Phina's signature style, she emphasizes it's not a long-term shift.

Phina Mugerwa is still serving in the Uganda Musicians Association (UMA) pulse uganda

"I realized no one was doing it better than I can," she explains, "so I had to prove it musically."

"As a dance maestro," Phina adds, "you'll definitely feel my moves in 'Funya.'"

However, her time at the Uganda Musicians Association (UMA) has broadened her perspective.

"Music should be more than just entertainment," she says. "It can be a powerful tool for social change."

Read: Phina Mugerwa pleads with Gov’t for promotional gigs

Phina Mugerwa pulse uganda

Phina plans to use her music to address various societal issues.

"I have songs about girls' rights and women's empowerment," she says. "I want to use my voice to promote the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)."

Born Josephine Mugerwa, Phina Masanyalaze started her career as a dancer for the Diamonds Production Band led by the late Paul Kato Lubwama. As a young woman, she honed her skills dancing for artists like Martin Angume and Rebecca Jjingo. Eventually, she discovered her singing talent and began performing both.

Her debut single, "Masanyalaze," launched her career in 2006. The song's success led to her adopting the stage name fans bestowed upon her. It also earned her the "Upcoming Artist of the Year" award at the defunct Pearl of Africa Music Awards (PAM Awards).

Inspired by industry leader Ragga Dee, Phina sought to make a difference in the music industry. This led her to join the UMA, where she served as General Secretary for five years. Her leadership skills were recognized, and she was appointed to the board of the Uganda National Cultural Centre, becoming the vice-chairperson.