Jose Chameleone, born Joseph Mayanja on April 30, 1979, in Kampala, Uganda, is a Ugandan singer and songwriter known for his distinctive blend of Afrobeat, Ugandan folk, reggae, zouk, and African rumba. He began his music career in the late 1990s and gained early recognition in Kenya before becoming one of Uganda’s most influential music artists.
Chameleone rose to regional fame with hits such as “Jamila,” “Kipepeo,” “Valu Valu,” “Badilisha,” and “Shida za Dunia.” Singing in Luganda, English, and Swahili, he has built a strong following across East and Central Africa and performed internationally. A multiple award winner and founder of Leone Island, Chameleone is widely regarded as one of Uganda’s most celebrated and influential musicians.
