The singer, whose real name is Garfield Delano Spence, is preparing to return to Uganda in December for his fifth performance in the country, having built a following through his music, live shows and collaborations with regional artistes.
Jamaican dancehall star Konshens has defended his longstanding relationship with East African music fans, insisting his affection for the region is genuine and not driven by the money he earns from performing there.
The singer, whose real name is Garfield Delano Spence, is preparing to return to Uganda in December for his fifth performance in the country, having built a following through his music, live shows and collaborations with regional artistes.
His latest remarks follow criticism from people questioning his motives for repeatedly performing in East Africa, particularly ahead of his scheduled return to Uganda.
However, Konshens maintains that his connection with the region predates his latest concert announcement and has continued even when he was not performing there.
In a post shared on Thursday, the singer said some critics were overlooking his years of support for East African music and artistes, arguing that his relationship with the region should not be judged by the timing of his visits.
“I show love to East Africa throughout the year, not just when I am coming there!” he said.
Konshens added that he had celebrated East Africa on major stages and international platforms for years, challenging critics to identify another artiste who had demonstrated similar support for musicians from the region.
“Tell me, which artiste has shown the most love and support to East African artistes over the years?” he asked.
To support his argument, Konshens pointed to his collaborations and remixes with regional artistes, including A Pass's Gamululu, which he described as a favourite, and the Backbencher remix featuring Toxic, whose music he praised.
He also recalled the Figa remix involving Kenyan group Ethic Entertainment, asking fans to remember their reaction when Gmoney first played the track. He noted that the remixes were not officially released, arguing that his involvement reflected a genuine interest in East African music rather than an attempt to benefit commercially.
“Do not play with me. I have been representing East Africa! The region may not pay me the most, but it gives me the most love, and I have never been afraid to show that love in return,” he said.
The Jamaican star also suggested that fans had overlooked one of the songs he referenced, arguing that it deserved to become a hit.
Konshens has performed in Uganda several times since his first appearance in 2012. He returned in August 2013 to headline a Pepsi-sponsored Live For Now concert before sharing the stage with fellow Jamaican dancehall star Busy Signal at Lugogo Cricket Oval in 2015.
His most recent performance in Uganda was at the Blankets and Wine festival on December 17, 2023, at Lugogo Cricket Oval.
He is scheduled to return in December, marking his fifth performance in the country.
Over the years, Konshens has maintained ties with East African music through collaborations and public displays of affection for Uganda and Kenya, including waving their national flags during performances outside the region.