While appearing on Bruno K’s TikTok live session, Navio didn’t shy away from revealing the Ugandan female celebrities he has admired over the years.
"Firstly, I have got a lot," he admitted with a grin before listing some of his long-time crushes, including Cindy, Sheebah, Spice Diana, Juliana, Iryn Namubiru, Lydia Jazmine, and Rema Namakula—playfully emphasizing her dimples.
However, the session wasn’t solely about celebrity crushes. Navio was also faced with a bigger question: who he believes is Uganda’s hip-hop king among Babaluku, GNL Zamba, and himself.
Instead of making bold claims, he chose a humble and reflective response:
"I don’t weigh in on this one. I feel like it’s a disservice to always declare yourself the king of hip-hop. At the end of the day, talent and stats will speak for themselves."
Navio further pointed out that his achievements speak for him, citing his performances in multiple countries and his 60+ awards, noting that at this stage in his career, the need to prove himself feels unnecessary.
Who is Navio? His Music Journey
Navio, born Daniel Lubwama Kigozi on October 18, 1983, is a Ugandan rapper and one of the most influential figures in East African hip-hop. He first gained prominence as a member of Klear Kut, an award-winning hip-hop group that helped define Uganda’s rap scene and introduced the term "Ugaflow" to describe the country’s hip-hop movement.
Navio’s solo career has been marked by numerous hit songs, including "Ngalo," "Bugumu," "One & Only," and "Njogereza," which showcased his ability to blend hip-hop with Ugandan cultural sounds. His versatility has made him a household name, earning him collaborations with international artists such as Keith Sweat and participation in the African supergroup One8, alongside stars like 2Face (Nigeria), Fally Ipupa (DRC), and Ali Kiba (Tanzania).
Raised in a musical household, Navio was inspired by his older brother’s rap collection, which included artists like Run-D.M.C., MC Hammer, and Vanilla Ice. His mother, Dr. Maggie Kigozi, encouraged his talent, leading him to record his first song at Baava Studio, owned by legendary producer Hope Mukasa.
Navio’s education took him to Monash University in South Africa, where he studied International Relations and Media Studies. Despite his academic pursuits, his passion for music remained strong, and he continued to build his career, earning multiple awards and performing across Africa and beyond.
His ability to blend hip-hop with African rhythms has set him apart, making him one of the most respected artists in Uganda’s music industry. Whether through his lyrical prowess, cultural fusion, or international collaborations, Navio continues to shape the Ugandan hip-hop scene and inspire the next generation of artists.