Ayo Lizer: Wasafi producer who's recorded big songs for Ugandan artistes

The song, whose video, was filmed by Jahlive, is now the most viewed on his YouTube channel, beating videos that are nine years old.

One could argue that the song's popularity is because of Big Eye's recently gained love from Ugandans after being endorsed by singer-turned-politician Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine, but it's also safe to say the song was well-produced. Its beat reminds you of Congolese music that Ugandans used to colloquially refer to as Lingala. The entertaining video, which has a vintage feel, makes it even more sweet.

The lyrics, however, have earned him some negative criticism, but those are inconsequential. "Am from Tanzania but already in love with this song," reads a comment on the YouTube video.

Another goes: "This is what is called giving a second change. Less than 24hrs 40k views. Who agree with me?"

Reads another comment: "We are playing this Ugandan tune here in Kenya." Given that it’s partly sung in Kiswahili, it might give the groovy jam a broader appeal.

Meanwhile, Ayo Lizer, real name Iraju Hamisi Mjege, also produced Party Mood by Azawi, which is off her African Music album. At 2.8 million views, Party Mood is Azawi's third most-watched video on her YouTube channel. The video was filmed by Marvin Musoke.

Still with Swangz Avenue, the beatmaker, who also goes by Lizer Classic -- recorded Vinka's Thank God, her second most watched video on YouTube at 3.7 million views. The video was also filmed by Marvin Musoke.

Before joining Wasafi, Lizer produced songs for prominent Tanzanian artistes, including Mr. Blue, who has a song with Navio titled Ayaya.

Ayo Lizer had relocated to Burundi when he got recognised by Diamond Platnumz who offered to employ him in the studio he was planning to open. Lizer, who was already making a killing in Burundi, initially declined but the tiny East African nation underwent political unrest, prompting the producer to return home.

He accepted to join Wasafi Records and started producing songs for all artistes under the label, starting with Kwetu by Rayvanny, which became a massive hit. He has since produced several hit songs, including Hallelujah, Kwangwaru, Jibebe, and the entire album A Boy from Tandale by Diamond Platnumz.