In the recording studios of Kampala, a quiet revolution is underway.

Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant, futuristic idea; it is already helping Ugandan artists write lyrics, craft melodies, and polish tracks at a speed once unimaginable. For many musicians, AI has slashed costs and opened up professional production to everyone.

But as AI weaves itself deeper into the creative fabric, it is also stirring uneasy questions about what makes music truly human and who owns the copyright.

Among those using the technology is Benon Mugumbya, who wears many hats as a musician, songwriter, producer and filmmaker.

“I can use a simple melody to prompt AI to create something based on it, and within a minute or two, I get to have a full song,” he says, a note of wonder in his voice.

Mugumbya says AI has become part of his work, and its capabilities amaze him.

Yet, even as he praises AI’s speed and power, Mugumbya insists on the need for a human feel in music.

“I can quickly detect AI-generated music. There is something that you hear that is so fine and so crystal clear - perfect vocals.

So, I feel that at the moment it’s still missing that soul. That’s why I think it should just help you build on what you have, but not produce 100% of the song, so we don’t lose that human touch.”

That delicate balance between technology and human emotion is now at the heart of a growing conversation in Uganda’s music scene.

Beyond the creative debate lies a more urgent legal one. As AI systems grow sophisticated enough to mimic voices and entire musical styles, artists worldwide, and now in Uganda, are sounding the alarm over the unauthorized use of their work.

Hamza Ssekamate, a lawyer, says creators already have tools to push back.

“If AI is misused and you feel your content is being misused, you have moral rights. If you feel your content is being sold for money, you have the economic right. So, you have the right to go to court, and we have seen it in countries like the US, and it is also coming to Uganda.”

However, Ssekamate acknowledges that the law is struggling to keep pace.

“We cannot say that we are going to do away with AI, as it is here to stay. We just need to enact laws that are going to address the gray areas and help authors sell their songs.”

CGTN Africa's Michael Baleke contributed to this report.