Darcin Shema Ngabonziza, better known as Pro Zed, has long been a prominent figure in Rwanda's rap production scene. But with the release of his debut EP 'About Time' on January 26, he ventures into a new domain: his own rap career.
In 2019, Pro Zed and his team initiated Loud Sound Music and released Loud Sound Cypher, a series made up of five cyphers featuring rappers who were not well known in the rap scene.
The cypher featured artists such as Drey Chaos, Slum Drip, Kivumbi King, Kenny K-Shot, Rayvin, E.T Ndahigwa, OG Kheinz, Big Game, Logan Joe, Triple K, 28 Kavukire, Derek YMG, Roman Q, Meckmond, and Stillmxtic.
All five beats in the cypher were made by Pro Zed. In that same year, he went on to produce the 'LD Red Room,' a series of live record sessions in a red room. The four episodes featured Andersonne, Kate, Chase, OG Kheinz, Logan Joe, Nd Streets, Roman, Arnaudtkrs, Lil K, Nikita Heaven, Doppy, and Maktain.
He was also the first to make a drill album in the country in 2020 with the help of Loud Sound Music, a Rwandan movement of drill rappers. The album 'Rwanda Rw’Ejo' had hits like 'Mukarukundo,' 'Inzoga,' 'Drill Season One,' '300,' 'Ye Ye Ye (Mwana Wa Mama),' and 'Coco,' a viral hit that dominated charts throughout the Covid-19 pandemic period.
On January 1, 2021, he released an extended play titled N.Y.A 808, a nod to his neighborhood Nyamirambo, and the musical genre prevalent on the tape. The album boasted one of the biggest hits of that year, 'King Kong,' featuring Kivumbi King, Kenny K-Shot, and Ish Kevin. The accompanying video has amassed over 680,000 views.
Pro Zed went on to make big songs in rap to date, including 'Nicyo Gituma' by B-Threy, 'Whatever' by Joe Logan, 'Full Stop' by Ish Kevin featuring Juno Kizigenza, 'BROCODE' by Ish Kevin, Og2Tone, Ririmba, and Kenny K Shot, among others. He also dropped 'Rwanda Rw’Ejo 2,' where he introduced new artistes like Xeventeen, Bobby Bangs, Jae Cube, Rayvin Dagga, among others, who were all featured on the album.
There’s no doubt that Pro Zed redefined Rwanda’s rap scene, but how good is he at rapping? Well, let’s review the debut EP: About Time.
Onana (feat. Arnaud Gray and B-Threy)
The EP kicks off with 'Onana,' featuring Arnaud Gray and B-Threy.
The track is an 808 beat, and begins with Arnaud Gray describing how people or fans are neophile. He compares himself to André Onana, the Cameroonian professional footballer in the Premier League currently, hinting at his loyalty and commitment in relationships.
Additionally, he mentions: "a girl with curves and a big house in Nyarutarama,” implying that this lady is selective in her relationships.
Pro Zed steps in for the first verse, expressing confidence in his talent causing a stir. He desires wealth, designer brands, and expensive kitchenware, he has determination to attain riches, this I can testify. Carrying a metaphorical "Katana" on the battlefield, he asserts his longevity and commitment to success.
B-Threy follows, dismissing critics who question his reliability and fearlessness in confronting truth. He and Pro Zed stand together in Nyamirambo, representing their community with pride and dedication. This track stands out for its infectious beat and compelling theme, with Arnaud Gray's chorus perfectly complementing the overall message. As of publication, 'Onana' stands out as the most successful track on the extended-play based on streaming platforms stats
Gohan
This track is the "lowkey" offering on the mixtape—a common element in many music compilations these days—and it’s an 808 beat.
Pro Zed draws inspiration from the anime character Gohan, the older son of Goku in the Dragon Ball franchise. He cleverly merges Gohan and Goku, highlighting his own strength and versatility in both rap and production.
Pro Zed also mentions a woman, suggesting that his presence is like a remedy for her, or at least his unique "male organ.”
He underscores his "rare talent" and brushes off anyone who questions his abilities, considering his collaboration with the Loud Sound Music collective as "a pivotal moment in Rwanda’s rap scene.” This track is aimed at skeptics of Loud Sound Music's impact on Rwanda's rap scene; it subtly criticizes those individuals, duh.
Interlude
The interlude features screams, goats, a deep voice, and cinematic sounds, featuring what appears to be Rwandan influences of Intore dances and drums. This interlude to the mixtape was produced by Producer Logic Hit It, who is well-known for crafting modern Rwandan cultural beats.
Nshaka (feat. Ish Kevin)
A slow-paced drill beat, beginning with a sample of a Rwandan traditional tape, sets the tone. Ish Kevin enters, sharing his recent investment of over 20 million to create a Trappish concert in Bujumbura.
He reflects on his rising status and attributes the need for success to his supportive mother and friends. Ish Kevin laments the difficulty of staying true to himself amidst envy and acknowledges that he no longer seeks validation from the industry. Born in Nyamirambo, he emphasizes his street credibility and strong work ethic. Ish Kevin aims for financial success, a desire to earn 20 million daily.
Pro Zed joins in, discussing their viral success and dismissing critics who doubted their potential. He criticizes industry practices such as buying views and living recklessly. Pro Zed aspires to wealth and luxury, envisioning lavish parties and owning a Mercedes AMG. He concludes by expressing disdain for manipulative tactics in the industry and emphasizes the importance of self-reliance.
Coupon Couper (feat. Bruce the 1st and Kenny K-Shot)
"Coupon Couper," the EP's most viral track, is a hard-hitting beat and was written by Pro Zed, Bruce the 1st, and Kenny K-Shot.
It's a hard drill beat crafted by Juni Quickly that invites the rappers to begin the fight, with Pro Zed leading the charge.
"We've come a long way from Panasonic speakers; now, look at what we did. People asking where have you been? I've been studying the game," Pro Zed asserts.
His verse paints a picture of VIP status in the club, where he charms and dances the night away. With a dose of wit, he warns against prying questions and asserts his prowess with lines like "snatch your girl, you’ll respect my dignity."
The chorus reflects on the complexities of modern romance, while Pro Zed remains steadfast in his faith and commitment to his craft.
Bruce the 1st takes a more reflective tone, hints at the importance of clarity and integrity in his journey. He refuses to tolerate deceitful dealings and instead focuses on his upward trajectory in the music industry. With a flurry of releases planned for the year, Bruce is "undeterred by naysayers and aims to set new standards in the game.”
Kenny K-Shot offers a raw perspective on industry dynamics, calling out those who betray loyalty for personal gain. His uncompromising stance reflects his "no-nonsense approach to both love and music.”
Hano Kuhaguma
The closing track of the mixtape, 'Hano Kuhaguma,' roughly translates to 'Here to Stay.' Pro Zed draws inspiration from a viral incident involving a local farmer named 'Safari,' who gained fame for standing up to local security on his farm, demanding respect.
Pro Zed's message is clear: he's in it for the long haul, aiming for lasting impact rather than fleeting fame. He emphasizes his deep roots in the rap game, shrugging off negative tweets and false rumors surrounding him.
In his villainous phase, he hoards the little love left, using it to ward off anxiety. His strategy is to instill fear, but for those unafraid, he invites confrontation. While making money and signing autographs for fans, he declares, "2024 is the year I show y'all what I can do while I am young." Additionally, he samples another viral track where a woman accuses her partner of being money-minded, with the man shouting his "need for money.”
The music showcased in this extended play represents a fresh iteration of Pro Zed, distinct from his previous collaborations with artistes like Yannick YMK, Bruce the 1st, or Kenny K-Shot. Judging by the reception from fans, it's safe to say, "he's here to stay." Interestingly, even a discerning friend of mine, who critiques music meticulously (albeit unpaid), noted just one-track worthy of skipping—whatever that may imply. Click here to stream "About Time EP.”