Music is not a new event in the world, but it has quite a deep history. Music lovers, including composers, singers and listeners, always have various reasons why they are attracted to music. However, the music industry has always attracted criticism, with some claiming that music lessons are a waste of time and that the main purpose of music is to enhance the enjoyment of life. In this essay I will argue that, in the truest sense of the word, music can be more than just sweet melodies and that dance can be more than good moves; music and dance play an essential role in the social, cultural and political life of people or communities. When it comes to Uganda's history, music has played an important role in combating social injustices and issues, particularly regarding gender-based violence and HIV/AIDS. For example, Philly Lutaaya has widely used his music as a means of spreading the message of HIV/AIDS throughout Uganda (Isabirye 29). HIV/AIDS is considered one of the largest epidemics in the world. When people had little knowledge about it, Philly Lutaaya decided to lend a hand in spreading the message. Aside from being hailed as one of the founders of Ugandan contemporary music, Lutaaya's legacy lies primarily in the pioneering HIV/AIDS campaigns in Uganda (Isabirye 29). Lutaaya used his musical talent by touring Uganda “during which he performed his music and gave speeches on HIV/AIDS” (Isabirye 33). The most recent example is that of the Agonga Youth Alliance (AYA) of Uganda, which decided to use art to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS (El-Bushra and Dolan 43). More importantly, music has become the primary tool for empowering discriminated groups in society. Musical performances by many female groups now complement ...... middle of paper ......nd Chris Dolan. “Don’t touch, just listen!” Popular performance from Uganda. African Political Economy Review, 91 (2002): 37-52. Internet. December 11, 2013. Isabirye, Joel. “Philly Lutaaya: Popular music and the fight against HIV/AIDS in Uganda. » Journal of Postcolonial Writing, 44.1, (2008): 29-35. Internet. December 11, 2013. “No one will listen to us unless we bring our drums. » AIDS and women's performance in Uganda, (nd): 77-108. Internet. December 11, 2013.Wadiru, Stella. “Sounding War: Acholi Popular Music in the Peace Process in Northern Uganda.” » Ethnomusicology in East Africa: Perspectives from Uganda and Beyond, (nd): 177-187. Internet. December 11, 2013.Tamusuza, Sylvia Nannyonga. “Gender, ethnicity and politics in the Kadongo-Kamu music of Uganda: analysis of the song Kayanda.” » Gender, ethnicity and politics in the Kadongo-Kamu music of Uganda, (nd): 134-147. Internet. December 11. 2013.