Rwanda’s music scene underwent a remarkable transformation, welcoming fresh, young talent that reshaped the industry’s landscape and are enjoying a quick breakthrough over the past 12 months

Among the names that stood out include Malani Manzi, rappers Hollix and Thedicekid, Fifi Raya and Shemi, whose works played an influential role in elevating Rwandan music.

These rising stars, with their diverse musical styles and innovative approaches, not only marked a departure from the norm but also catalyzed a cultural shift within Rwandan music.

ALSO READ: Why 2023 could be Rwanda’s biggest year musically

The New Times looks at the new faces to watch out for in 2024 as we embark on another 12 months of music revelations.

Manzi Mallan

Malani Manzi, also known as Alain Manzi, is a rising Rwandan artist aiming to revolutionize the country’s music scene. Born in 2000, he began composing songs and singing in church choirs in Kigali as a youngster.

At 16, he started participating in studio sessions with friends and later enrolled at Nyundo School of Arts and Music, a move he credits for propelling his music career forward.

Despite being relatively new to the scene, his powerful vocals and impactful lyrics showcased in tracks like ‘Amor’ and ‘Nuyu’ hint at his potential to reshape the Afrobeats and R&B genres in Rwanda.

Shemi

18-year-old Gibril Shema Mico, also known as Shemi, debuted with his song ‘Peace of Mind’ recently, winning hearts instantly. The song has been dominating streaming charts, even a year later with over a million views.

In a recent interview with The New Times, he said he would soon unleash fire, poised to conquer the Rwandan music scene through Afrobeat and RnB.

Shemi has collaborated with local artistes on several projects like ‘Ntagotwa’ by Kevin Klein, ‘Big Shaq’ by Ish Kevin, ‘Solo’ by Dj Pyfo ft. B-Threy, his latest single ‘One Time,’ and more, showcasing his versatility and drive in the industry.

ALSO READ: Meet Shemi, the ‘Peace of Mind’ star

Yago

Innocent Nyarwaya, known as Yago, is a multifaceted Rwandan artist deeply immersed in afro-pop, afro-fusion, trap-soul, and dancehall genres.

Born in Uganda, his passion for music blossomed early in life. Despite initial financial challenges, Yago pursued his childhood dream of singing. On Friday, December 22, he launched his debut album, ‘Suwejo’, after a year in the music industry.

Notably, he took home the ‘Best New Artist’ award from Isango na Muzika, winning over other emerging talents like Linda Montez, Malani Manzi, and Shemi.

Some tracks from his upcoming album launch, ‘Suwejo’ are ‘Suwejo’,’Rata’, ‘Si Swing’, ‘Umuhoza’, ‘Yahweh’, ‘Original Kopy’, ‘Alright’, ‘True Love’, ‘Naremeye’ featuring Bushali, ‘My Love’, ‘Vis à Vis’ and many more.

ALSO READ: Meet Yago, a journalist turned Afro-fusion music star

Rapper Fifi Raya

Real name Fiona Ishimwe, Raya is deeply passionate about music. She entered a talent-promoting school, where she had enough time in the studio, honing her skills and paving her way into a music career.

Composing and recording led her to rise as a star. Her future plans revolve around hard work to further showcase her talent. At 23 years old, she’s in her second year in the music industry, establishing more connections.

Currently managed by Ddumba, alongside another emerging artist Tonalite, her singles, including ‘Liquor store’, ‘Cyaze’, ‘Tuzagukumbura’, and ‘Hoshi’, where she collaborated with Tonalite, gained her recognition. Her latest releases are ‘Wasara’ and ‘Cyane’.

Rapper Hollix

Christian Ganza, known as Hollix, was born in 2003 and found inspiration in the New York drill genre, a regional offshoot of drill music, itself a subgenre of rap. This style originated in Brooklyn, New York branching from the drill music scene in Chicago. Young rappers like DD Osama, Dudeylo, Kay Flock, and others in the US promoted this sub-genre.

Hollix recently released an EP titled ‘2K3’ (2003), named after the year of his birth. Some of his notable tracks include ‘Amarira ya Tranchez’ and ‘Free plug’, alongside a feature in 'Blessings' by Zory Banks, among others.