EVERY musician fights to make their mark in the industry and Knowless is no exception. After coming in third at last year’s Primus Guma Guma Super Star (PGGSS 3) competition, Knowless opted out this year to focus on her career. And she did just that, considering she has a third album coming out. Timothy Bamwita talked to the singer about her upcoming album and what her fans should expect.

What is the name of the album and what is the inspiration behind its name?

This album is called Butera and is named after both my deceased parents. I previously sang a song called Sinzakwibagirwa which is on my second album and dedicated it to them but I felt that it wasn’t enough. So that song is the inspiration behind this album. 

You have launched an album almost every year since you started in 2010. How different will this one be?

The songs on the album are more traditional than the ones on the previous two albums. The album itself has nine songs, some of which have received good airplay already. It has songs like Baramushaka and Wowe featuring Christopher which have surprisingly received a big following. Others include Leka Ngukunde, Mutima and Nyaruka featuring Ben Kayiranga. The songs therefore generally appeal to Rwandans from all walks of life.

When and where is the launch going to be; and how much does one have to part with to attend?

The launch is on Saturday 19 July, 2014 at Kigali Serena Hotel and gates open at 6:00pm. Tickets are going for Rwf 5000 for ordinary seats and Rwf 10000 for VIP. These tickets can be bought at Serena. 

What should your fans expect at the launch?

Some of the big names in the industry shall be there to support me. Among these are Tom Close, Christopher, Dream Boys, Makanyaga Abdul and the legendary Kesho Band. It is going to be a live show, no play back music. I have come to realise through my experience over the years that people enjoy live music more than play backs; so I have to give them the very best. I will also make two different appearances in which I will have non-stop performances alongside great backstage dancers.

You won the Salax award for artiste of the year and best album 2013. Is the launch a strategy to stay ahead?

Yes it is. As a musician, you need to keep giving more to your fans because they shall always be expectant. So I try my best to keep up the tempo because it is from these constant launches that I get publicity; which is behind the several awards and milestones in the industry.

What are some of the awards you have won in the past?

There are quite a number that I have been blessed with over the years. Best new artiste (2010), Best female artiste - Salax Awards (2011, 2012 and 2013), Best female artiste - Diva Awards (2012), Best album - Salax Awards (2013), Best video – Salax Awards (2013) and Artiste of the year- Salax Awards (2013).

What do you have to say to your fans?

I urge all my fans to come and support me at the Kigali Serena Hotel this Saturday. I will treat them to an array of great new songs. Let them come and we do what we usually do; have fun. I appreciate what they have made me and without them I am nothing!