Veteran radio icon Michael Benjamin Owor, known as DJ Bush Baby, was discovered dead in his studio in Entebbe on June 5. His death has shocked Uganda’s entertainment industry. The family confirmed that he went missing two days earlier. When they couldn’t reach him, his relatives broke into his studio in Entebbe and found him lifeless inside. Authorities will perform a postmortem examination, but the cause of death is still unknown.
Born in 1975, Bush Baby started his career in the late 1990s at Radio Uganda’s Green Channel, later known as Magic FM. His passion for music and media changed broadcasting in Uganda and beyond. Over the years, Bush Baby worked at various stations, helping to expand radio and TV across the region. He played a key role in Kiss FM in Tanzania and was a major figure at East African Radio and East African Television (EATV), formerly Channel 5.
His programs, such as “Uganda Central”, “Friday Night Live”, and “5 Live”, promoted Ugandan music and culture. These shows gave emerging artists a platform and boosted their visibility across East Africa. Friday Night Live became a staple on EATV and East Africa Radio. Alongside Bobby Mongi, Bush Baby co-hosted 5 Live, a lively weekday show with live audiences and interactive segments, which helped shape youth programming in East Africa.
Returning to Uganda, DJ Bush Baby continued to influence the industry. He worked at Sanyu FM, XFM, Urban TV, and NXT Radio, and became head of the creative department at NXT Media. Through it all, Bush Baby championed East African talent, pushing for professionalism in the media.
In 2021, a serious accident left him with a fractured pelvis and internal injuries. Despite the setback, he underwent surgery and received public support for his recovery. This outpouring of affection from his fans and colleagues showed the deep connection he had built over the years.
Later, Bush Baby turned his focus to mentoring aspiring DJs and broadcasters. In 2024, he signed with XRadio in Dar es Salaam. He continued broadcasting his weekly online show every Thursday. His deep knowledge of African music resonated with his listeners, connecting him to audiences across the region.
The news that DJ Bush Baby was found dead has left the entertainment world in mourning. His contributions to East African radio and music broadcasting have shaped the industry. His legacy as a media pioneer and advocate for African music will inspire future generations.
