Although he is no longer actively producing music, Jean's influence remains strong due to his timeless productions. His work includes iconic tracks such as "Nkuweki" by Iryn Namubiru, "Dole Y'omwana" and "Nalwewuuba" by Lord Fred Sebatta, "More Money" by Napoleon, and many others. His portfolio also features hits like "Nabikoowa," "Say It," and "Seven Days" by Juliana Kanyomozi, "Hitaji," "Frisky," and "Together" by Blu*3, and "Senorita" by Michael Ross. Jean’s influence in the Ugandan music scene is undeniable, with his productions standing as classics that resonate with audiences to this day.
Steve Jean, the visionary behind Fenon Entertainment, has played a pivotal role in shaping Uganda’s music industry by hiring and mentoring some of the finest producers in the country's history. Born as Steve Jean Sserunkuma, his early career saw him working in prominent studios like Bava Studios, owned by Hope Mukasa, and No End Studios, run by Halima Namakula, before he went on to establish Fenon Records.
D King, Steve Jean and Benon Mugumbya
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Upon founding Fenon Records, Jean collaborated with several notable producers who later made significant contributions to the music industry:
- Benon Mugumbya: Originally with Fenon, Mugumbya went on to launch Swangz Avenue in 2008, which started as a recording studio and evolved into a full-fledged record label with the help of Julius Kyazze, a former dancer with Fenon. Mugumbya’s production credits include "Omukwano Ogwedda" by Juliana Kanyomozi, "Mandela" and "Go Mama" by Bebe Cool, "Sweet Lady" by Mowzey Radio, and hits by Radio & Weasel like "Dagala," "Bread & Butter," and "Zuena."
- Andrew Kiwanuka: A multi-talented singer and producer, Kiwanuka's background includes education in electronic engineering and a stint at Andrew Rugasira's AV1 Records. His production work spans songs like "Gologoosa" by Fred Sebatta and "Kagoma" by Bobi Wine. Kiwanuka also released his own song, "Kampala," and established Soul Records.
- D King (Andrew Arinaitwe): D King joined Fenon Records in 2011 and initially focused on producing adverts before founding his own production house, Neutriq Town. His impressive portfolio features songs such as "Woman" and "Omutima Guluma" by Juliana Kanyomozi, "Whistle" by Rema & Ykee Benda, and tracks like "Temperature" by Iryn Namubiru.
- Michael Fingaz (Michael Mugisha): Founder of Masters Recordz, Fingaz helped launch Naava Grey’s career with the hits "Aliba Wani" and "Nteredde" while Grey was under Fenon’s management. Fingaz’s production credits also include "Love You Everyday" and "Freedom" by Bebe Cool, "Right Here" and "I'm Still Here" by Juliana Kanyomozi, and "My Year" by Azawi.
Through his efforts at Fenon Records, Steve Jean has not only contributed directly to the music industry with his productions but also paved the way for future generations of Ugandan producers and musicians.
