The period between 2015 and 2017 marked a significant turning point in Eno Beats' career. What began as a small operation in Kampala was rapidly evolving into a professional studio that could compete with international standards.
"2015 was when everything changed," Eno reflects. "We moved from a small setup to a proper studio facility. The quality of our work improved dramatically, and artists started taking notice."
Building the Dream Studio
In 2015, Eno made the bold decision to invest in a larger facility in Makindye, Kampala. The new studio, Eno Beats Production Limited, was equipped with professional-grade recording equipment, soundproofing, and state-of-the-art mixing consoles.
"I wanted to create a space where Ugandan artists could produce music that could compete globally. The investment was huge, but the vision was bigger."
The new facility quickly became a hub for creativity, attracting artists from across East Africa who were seeking professional production services.
Breaking Through with Major Artists
Eno's big break came when he began working with some of Uganda's most prominent musicians. His collaboration with Jose Chameleone on the hit single "Tatizo" showcased his production prowess and brought him national recognition.
"Working with Chameleone was a game-changer," Eno explains. "It opened doors to other major artists and proved that our studio could deliver hit-quality productions."
This success was followed by collaborations with other industry heavyweights including Bebe Cool, Sheebah Karungi, and Eddy Kenzo. Each project brought new challenges and learning opportunities.
The Sheebah Era
One of Eno's most notable collaborations was with Sheebah Karungi, producing several of her biggest hits including "Stani Tonkema" and "Wankona." These productions not only topped the charts but also earned critical acclaim.
"Sheebah is a visionary artist," Eno shares. "Working with her taught me the importance of understanding an artist's vision and bringing it to life authentically."
Industry Recognition
The breakthrough years culminated in Eno receiving his first major industry recognition. In 2018, he was nominated for the All Africa Music Awards' Best Audio Producer category, putting Ugandan production on the international map.
That same year, Eno won the prestigious HIPIPO MUSIC AWARDS for Audio Producer of the Year, cementing his status as Uganda's top music producer.
Expanding Services
As demand grew, Eno expanded his services beyond just audio production. The studio began offering video production, live sound engineering, and artist development services.
"We evolved from just a recording studio to a full-service production house," Eno explains. "Artists needed more than just recording; they needed complete solutions."
The Community Impact
Throughout his rise, Eno remained committed to giving back to the community. He mentored young producers, provided affordable rates for emerging artists, and helped develop the next generation of Ugandan music talent.
By the end of 2017, Eno Beats had produced over 1,000 songs and worked with more than 800 artists, establishing itself as the go-to studio in East Africa.
In Part 3, we'll explore Eno's continued growth, international collaborations, and the future vision for Eno Beats Studios.