Ghetto Kids, a group of young dancers from Uganda, have captured international attention after receiving the coveted “golden buzzer” during their performance on the hit show Britain’s Got Talent.
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The golden buzzer, which had never been used before, signifies a remarkable achievement. When pressed, it unleashes a cascade of golden confetti, propelling the competitors directly to the final rounds of the show.
The dance ensemble, Ghetto Kids previously known as Triplets Ghetto Kids, has already amassed a massive online following. Their energetic performances, set to popular tunes, exude contagious positivity. Sharing their talents on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, the Ghetto Kids have garnered significant acclaim.
Founded in 2014 by Daouda Kavuma, the group comprises children from the Katwe slums in Kampala, Uganda. Their inspiring journey has seen them grace major platforms worldwide, including appearing in French Montana’s “Unforgettable” music video and performing at a World Cup 2022 event in Qatar.
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Ghetto Kids History
Back in 2014, a video of Alex, Fred, Bachir, Patricia, and Isaac dancing to Eddy Kenzo’s “Sitya Loss” caught the attention of millions worldwide. The clip went viral, amassing over 8 million views on YouTube and other social media platforms. When Kenzo discovered the video through a friend, he was amazed and decided to collaborate with the talented youngsters in the official music video, released in September of that same year. This marked the birth of Ghetto Kids, providing them with the means to return to school and enabling founder Daouda Kavuma to invest in equipment for the group’s development. Kavuma also composed and produced several music pieces for the group as they embarked on tours across Africa and the United Kingdom.
Tragedy struck on November 30, 2015, when 14-year-old Alex passed away in a bicycle accident. Despite the immense loss, Ghetto Kids persevered and continued to captivate audiences with their performances, touring not only Africa but also beyond. Their exceptional talent garnered admiration from renowned American artists such as P. Diddy and Nicki Minaj. In 2017, their breakthrough came when they featured in the music video for French Montana’s “Unforgettable,” propelling their success in the United States.
In January 2023, the Ghetto Kids took their talents to France, where they performed during the halftime show at Paris Saint-Germain’s home game against Reims at the Parc des Princes. The young dancers also had the opportunity to meet PSG players, including the renowned Kylian Mbappé, prior to the match.
April 2023 marked another milestone for Ghetto Kids as they made their appearance on Britain’s Got Talent. It was a defining moment when new judge Bruno Tonioli, deeply moved by their performance, pressed the golden buzzer, becoming the first ever contestant to receive the Golden Buzzer during a performance in the history of Got Talent shows. This exceptional recognition further propelled Ghetto Kids into the spotlight and solidified their status as an international sensation.
Career
In 2017, Ghetto Kids gained widespread popularity with their dance video to the Afro house song “Marimba Rija” by Angolan musician Dotorado Pro. Choreographed by renowned choreographer Sherrie Silver, the video showcased the group’s unique style and garnered 25 million views.
The choice of “Marimba Rija” was fitting as it represented the essence of Ghetto Kids, with the marimba being a significant instrument in African music. The song, produced by a prominent Afro house and kuduro artist, showcased the fusion of traditional and contemporary elements.
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In 2021, Ghetto Kids further showcased their distinct personality in a video set to the hit song “Laissez Passer” by Diblo Dibala. The song combines coupé decalé and soukous, two vibrant music and dance styles. Soukous, originating from Congolese rumba, and coupé decalé, founded by young Ivorians in Paris, blended seamlessly in the group’s energetic performance.
Ghetto Kids’ dances embody the spirit of “let them pass,” combining their unique kuduro moves with the infectious rhythms of coupé decalé and soukous. Their talent and style continue to make a lasting impact in the industry.
Ghetto Kids Britain Got Talent Journey
Uganda’s renowned dance troupe, Ghetto Kids, achieved a historic milestone by winning the Golden Buzzer on the 16th season of Britain’s Got Talent (BGT).
The Golden Buzzer serves as a coveted prize for contestants vying for the competition’s grand prize, guaranteeing them a spot in the live rounds, including the Semi-Finals.
Taking the stage adorned in vibrant green African attire, the group of five charmed the audience with their warm smiles and shared a touching story of their rise to fame through dance.
During their captivating dance routine, Judge Bruno Tonioli couldn’t contain his excitement and attempted to imitate some of their intricate steps. Although the Ghetto Kids proved too swift for him, Judge Tonioli maintained his joyful expression throughout.
Adding to the excitement, a younger girl joined the team midway through the performance, prompting Judge Tonioli to rise from his seat and declare, “I have to do it now,” as he stretched out his arm to press the golden buzzer. The overwhelming emotions in Judge Tonioli’s heart were palpable in that moment.
Notable Collaborations:
- 2014: “Sitya Loss” – Eddy Kenzo (Music video)
- 2015: “Jambole” – Eddy Kenzo (Music video)
- 2017: French Montana – “Unforgettable” (Music video)
- 2022: “ODG” – Eltee Skhillz (Music video)
- 2022: “Tunakupenda” – Triplets Ghetto Kids ft. Eltee Skhillz (Music video)
Ghetto Kids Progress to Grand Finale of Britain’s Got Talent 2023
Ghetto Kids, the sensational dance group from Uganda, has successfully advanced to the final of the 16th season of Britain’s Got Talent. Their outstanding performance during the live semi-final show secured their spot in the final alongside Travis George.
Outshining talented competitors, including guitarist Harry Churchill, magician Miki Dark, dance group Notorious, comedian Markus Birdman, yo-yo experts Toy Toy Toy, and singer Dylan B, Ghetto Kids emerged as the winners of the semi-final, earning the highest number of public votes.
Dressed in vibrant yellow outfits, the group of six kids, aged between five and 13, mesmerized the audience at the Hammersmith Apollo with their electrifying dance routine, leaving everyone in awe.
Despite one dancer being unable to perform due to contracting malaria, Ghetto Kids showcased their irresistible talent and left a lasting impression. Judge Bruno Tonioli described them as “simply irresistible,” while Alesha Dixon exclaimed that they are the ones to beat and that they bring immense joy to the heart.
The group is now among the ten finalists competing for the chance to win a cash prize of £250,000 (approximately KsH. 43M) and a coveted spot in the annual Royal Variety Performance.
