Joseph Mayanja (born 30 April 1979), professionally known as Jose Chameleone, is a Ugandan Afrobeat singer, songwriter, and record producer. Renowned for blending Afropop, R&B, dancehall, zouk, and reggae, Chameleone has become one of East Africa’s most successful and influential artists.
He rose to fame in Kenya in the late 1990s after working with Ogopa Deejays, releasing his debut single “Bageya” featuring Redsan. His unique sound, multilingual lyrics in Luganda, English, and Swahili, and electrifying performances quickly earned him continental fame. Over the past two decades, Chameleone has released numerous hit singles and albums, including “Valu Valu,” “Jamila,” “Mama Mia,” “Kipepeo,” “Bayuda,” and “Badilisha.”
Early Life and Education
Jose Chameleone was born on 30 April 1979 in Kampala, Uganda, to Gerald and Prossy Mayanja. He is the fourth of eight children in the Mayanja family, which also produced other popular musicians such as Pallaso, Weasel, and the late AK 47.
He attended Nakasero Primary School, then joined several secondary schools including Mengo Senior School, Kawempe Muslim Secondary School, Katikamu SDA, and Progressive Senior School. During his school years, Chameleone’s musical talent stood out—he even composed the anthem for Kawempe Muslim Secondary School.
Music Career
Chameleone’s career began in 1996 as a DJ at Missouri Nightclub in Kampala before moving to Nairobi, Kenya, in 1998, where he signed with Ogopa Deejays. His breakout single “Bageya” (1999) introduced him to the East African music scene.
In 2000, he released his first full-length album Mama Mia, followed by a string of successful records such as:
- Kipepeo (2005)
- Shida Za Dunia (2006)
- Valu Valu (2012)
- Badilisha (2013)
- Wale Wale (2014)
- Sweet Banana (2017)
- Champion (2018)
His sound fuses traditional Ugandan folk with rhumba, reggae, and Afrobeats, earning him international acclaim.
Global Performances
Chameleone has performed across Africa, Europe, the United States, Asia, and Australia. Notable events include sold-out concerts at Lugogo Cricket Oval in Kampala, multiple European tours, and his 2023 “Gwanga Mujje” concert, which became one of Uganda’s largest music events.
Leone Island Records
He is the founder and CEO of Leone Island Records, a label that has nurtured some of Uganda’s biggest names, including Radio & Weasel, AK 47, Pallaso, Melody Uganda, King Saha, and Big Eye.
Other Activities
Beyond music, Jose Chameleone is active in philanthropy and advocacy. He runs the Chameleone Foundation, which supports disadvantaged youth, and has used his fame to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and poverty reduction.
In politics, Chameleone ran for Lord Mayor of Kampala in 2021, further cementing his role as both an entertainer and public figure. He also serves as Ambassador for the Busoga Tourism Initiative.
Awards and Recognition
Jose Chameleone’s career has been decorated with numerous awards, including:
- Pearl of Africa Music Awards (2004, 2005, 2006) – Artist of the Year, Best Afrobeat Artist
- Kisima Music Awards (2006, 2007) – Best Ugandan Song, Best Collaboration
- Tanzania Music Awards (2004, 2005, 2012) – Best East African Album & Song
- HiPipo Music Awards (2014) – Song of the Year, Best Male Zouk Song
- AFRIMA (2015) – Songwriter of the Year
- Galaxy Zzina Music Awards (2018) – Legend Award
He has also received nominations at the Kora Awards, MOBO Awards, MTV Europe Music Awards, and MTV Africa Music Awards.
Personal Life
Jose Chameleone was married to Daniella Atim from 2008 until their divorce in 2017. Together, they have children. Despite his high-profile lifestyle, Chameleone remains dedicated to family, music, and community development.
Legacy
With a career spanning over two decades, Jose Chameleone is celebrated as one of Africa’s most iconic Afrobeat artists. His ability to mix diverse musical influences while maintaining a strong Ugandan identity has earned him a lasting legacy. From nurturing talent under Leone Island to headlining international concerts, he has shaped the sound of modern East African music.
