Nina Roz, born Nina Kankunda, is a multi-talented Ugandan artist renowned for her prowess in ragga, afro dancehall, and afro-pop genres.
Embarking on her music journey in 2016, Nina Roz initially collaborated with the Ugandan record label Team No Sleep (TNS) for her debut single before venturing out independently.
Background and Education of Nina Roz Born in Mbarara, Uganda, in July 1993, Nina Roz is the daughter of Mr. Matia Nsemeirwe Martin and Proscovia Tumukunde, and she spent her formative years in Kampala. While her mother gave her the name Kakunda, which hints at her Western Ugandan roots, Nina reveals her Rwandan heritage through her father, making her a blend of both cultures. Attending various schools including St. Steven's Church of Uganda, Kakungulu Memorial, Kibuli SS, and Mitiyana Trinity College, Nina Roz's academic pursuits were interrupted due to financial constraints. Despite starting a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration at East African University, Nina had to abandon her studies when her stepfather, Hajji Gita Sulaiman, fell ill and could no longer support her education.
Nina Roz's Career in Fashion Utilizing her unique height of over 6 feet, Nina Roz ventured into modeling during her s.6 break, garnering attention from various modeling agencies due to her striking appearance.
Music Career During her secondary years, Nina Roz collaborated with Empress, a prominent ragga female dancehall artist, as her backup artist. After leaving college, Nina Roz immersed herself in Kampala's nightlife scene, where she met influential figures in the music industry. A chance encounter with Sheebah Karungi, a renowned Ugandan artist, proved to be pivotal in Nina's life, igniting her passion for music. Following a stint in South Africa, Nina returned to Uganda and, with the guidance of Sheebah's manager, Jeff Kiwa, ventured into music production. Signing with Boom Bark Records in 2017, Nina Roz collaborated with Daddy Andre to produce her hit single "Omuliro," followed by subsequent releases like "Olumya Banno" and "Anayinama." In 2020, Nina Roz transitioned to Sure Events and released singles such as "Ntinka Nkutike" and "Ekyoyoyo," showcasing her distinctive vocal style and innovative music videos.
Known for her melodious voice and fashion-forward visuals, Nina Roz continues to captivate audiences with her music and style. Awards Pafa Awards 2018: Recognized as Best Female Fashionista Hipipo Awards 2018: Notable Talent Hipipo Awards 2019: Nominated for Best Breakthrough Artist Abryanz Style and Fashion Awards 2018: Honored as Most Fashionable Female Artiste Abryanz Style and Fashion Awards 2017: Acknowledged as Most Fashionable Female Artiste
Nina Roz's Songs \sAssurance - 2017 Omuliro - 2017 Ebiroowozo - 2017 Sikuta - 2017 Olumya Banno - 2018 Bukenke – 2018 Twebusa - 2018 Fight for it - 2018 Mbaayo - 2018 Daily basis - 2017 Anayinama - 2018 Ofunira Wa - 2019 Munda Ddala - 2019 Ntika nkutike - 2020 Ekyoyoyo - 2020 Collaborations Oli Mekete - Nina Roz ft Kabako - 2016 Njagala double – Nina Roz ft Ratigan Sinaba – Nina Roz ft Sammy Bwoy Tomala Budde - Nina Roz ft Eddy Wizzy Akanchawa - Nina Roz ft Dan Dizzy
Controversies When Nina Roz and Sheeba Kalungi grew close, rumors circulated that they were dating, with Nina Roz as the girlfriend and Sheeba taking on the role of the boyfriend. Nina Roz refuted these claims, asserting that Sheeba was merely a close friend who supported her through her depression.
As Nina ventured into the music industry and Sheeba embarked on her singing career, their relationship deteriorated. Nina maintains that she did not act against Sheeba, but Sheeba chose to terminate their friendship. Nina also contends that Sheeba did not provide the support she expected prior to entering the industry.
According to Sheeba's inner circle, she disapproved of Nina entering the industry, fearing that Nina's closeness with Jeff Kiwa would lead to unwanted attention from Sheeba.
Nina Roz has faced allegations of substance abuse, purportedly impacting her music career negatively. However, Nina has dismissed these allegations as baseless and inconsequential.