Jose Chameleone, during an episode of the talk show Versus on RTV, opened up about his music career, sharing the struggles he has overcome and the drive that has kept him persistent in an industry not always welcoming. Dubbed as a legend in East African music, even superstar Diamond Platnumz recently acknowledged him as the top artist in the region during a visit to Uganda.
Chameleone recounted the initial hardships he faced when starting his music career, particularly the struggle to gain public attention and recognition. Through sheer determination, he carved his path and slowly embedded himself as a household name in African entertainment.
He remarked, "The toughest challenges I faced in music were during its early days. When I would tell people my name was Jose Chameleone, no one recognized it. To make a name for myself, I had to create songs that people loved. The hard part was crafting songs that resonated broadly, which was the real challenge."
Over the course of his illustrious 25-year journey, Chameleone highlighted the importance of innovation, self-belief, and harnessing his unique talent as the backbone of his success, distinguishing him from others in the industry.
"The 25 years in music, to me, mean innovating fresh ideas and believing in myself. Talent is everywhere; we live in a society filled with people trying to discourage you by saying you aren’t doing things the right way. But when I worked in my own way, I felt it was authentic," he shared.
Sharing his stance on originality, Chameleone added, "When someone sings merely to impress others, they lose their unique touch. I’ve never done that. That’s why Chameleone’s voice remains distinct. I know people love me, and I thank God for that. I don’t know the reason they love me."
His unwavering commitment to music, even in difficult times, is rooted in his belief in its joy-inducing power. Quoting the Bible, Chameleone highlighted that he sings primarily for his own happiness, allowing others to experience joy through his work.
"Even the Bible says, 'Sing so you may rejoice.' For me, I sing for many reasons. I sing to create my happiness, and others find happiness afterward. No amount of money could convince me to stop singing," he emphasized.
Having last graced Kigali’s stage in 2018, Jose Chameleone is back in Rwanda and gearing up for a live performance at Kigali Universe this Sunday, May 25, 2025. Fans eagerly await the celebrations of this musical icon, marking over two decades of unmatched artistry.
Jose Chameleone remarked that people stop creating music when they lose their genuine passion for it.
Jose Chameleone touched down in Kigali on Friday, ready to mesmerize his Rwandan fans once again.