Coopy Bly
Coopy Bly, originally named Emmanuel Edwin Kusaasira, was born on December 5, 1989, to Patrick and Justine Buyinza in Makindye, on the outskirts of Kampala, Uganda. Raised in a Christian household alongside his sister, he first showcased his musical abilities by leading campfire songs during his primary school days. This early exposure sparked his interest, leading him to join the school choir for the final two years of primary education.
In 2003, while attending secondary school, Coopy Bly capitalized on his parents' absence, as they were working in the UK, to pursue his musical aspirations, aware that they might not fully support his artistic endeavors alongside his academic pursuits. With savings from his pocket money, he recorded his debut track, 'Shiny Money,' at Dream Studios. Returning to school the following term, he eagerly shared his music with friends. In 2005, he recorded 'Glorify,' his third song, which gained popularity over the next two years, affording him opportunities to perform at gospel events alongside prominent artists such as Martin Sseku.
Continuing his musical journey, Coopy Bly produced the reggae track 'Ghetto Love' in 2006, accompanied by his first music video. The song garnered significant airplay on EATV, East Africa's premier music television channel.
By 2010, Coopy Bly had amassed a catalog of over nine songs and anticipated completing his Bachelor's Degree in Social Sciences to allocate more time to his music career. That same year, he released 'Bwaka,' a poignant song addressing societal issues like homosexuality, which propelled him into the spotlight, earning extensive radio airplay and numerous TV and radio appearances. Subsequent hits such as 'Kulunga' and 'Kumbaya' further solidified his presence in the music scene.
In 2011, the release of 'Nyweza' garnered Coopy Bly nominations for various awards, including the Olive Gospel Awards, Buzz Teenies Awards, and Groove Awards in Kenya. The song's popularity extended beyond gospel circles, earning him recognition across East Africa.On May 6, Coopy Bly launched his album at Watoto Central in Kampala, delivering a captivating performance to a packed audience, featuring the chart-topping single 'Sidda Mukyalo.'
In 2012, he embarked on a European tour, captivating audiences in schools, churches, and public venues across Germany and The Netherlands. His tour success earned him nominations at the Olive Gospel Awards, where he was crowned 'Best Male Artist of the Year 2012-2013.'In February 2013, the music video for 'Sidda Mukyalo' received widespread acclaim, further establishing Coopy Bly as a formidable artist in East Africa. He was nominated for 'Best Male Artist- East Africa' at the Africa Gospel Awards and shared the stage with international acts like Sho Baraka, Benjah, and Daddy Owen.
Since then, Coopy Bly has continued to release hit singles like 'Genau,' 'Anjagala,' 'I Do,' 'Muve Mundolo,' 'Fire,' and 'Lwokano,' setting the stage for his second album's release in 2014. Collaborations with fellow gospel artists such as Sseku Martin, Voltage, and Sifa Boys have further expanded his influence.Coopy Bly's impact transcends generational boundaries, appealing to both youth and older demographics with his distinctive style and profound lyrics. With his sophomore album on the horizon and a lineup of music videos, including 'Onsalangako,' 'Anjagala,' 'I Do,' and 'Kilo,' 2014 promises to be a significant year for the rising star in Ugandan Gospel music.
