Rwandan singer Knowless Butera in an interview with The New Times, shared her experience of overcoming many challenges, including sexual harassment, to get to where she is today.

She encouraged young girls to stay true to themselves and focus on their dreams and added that she hopes her music will have a positive impact not just on girls, but on youth as a whole.

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The winner of the fifth season of PGGSS, also shared her plans for the year 2024 in an interview with The New Times.

When asked about her upcoming projects, Butera replied, "I'm currently working on my sixth album, which will be different from any of my previous work. It will feature new singles, new messages, and new collaborations, making it truly unique."

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Explaining the inspiration behind her music, Butera said, "My music is often inspired by society, everyday life, and my loved ones.

My creative process varies - sometimes I visit the studio, listen to a beat from a producer, and compose the melodies and lyrics on the spot.

Other times, I write songs and come up with melodies away from the studio, then consult a producer to record it. It really depends on the song and my mood."

The ‘Nzabampari’ singer also emphasised the importance of music in society, saying, "Music plays a vital role in today's society.

Young people are often influenced by what we sing, and many are inspired to follow our lead or pursue similar careers. Therefore, as musicians, we have a great responsibility to produce music that is not only enjoyable but also positive and uplifting."

On how being a female artiste in music industry empowers her to inspire other girls, Knowless highlighted the challenges of being a female artist in the music industry, saying, "Being a female artiste in the music industry is not easy. We face many challenges that men do not.

However, with determination and passion, we can achieve great things that can inspire other girls to pursue their dreams. Empowering other young women through my music and story is very important to me. I receive many messages from young girls telling me that my music has helped them in their personal growth and has had a positive impact on their lives.

This feedback is incredibly humbling and inspiring to me, as it reminds me that my music can have a real, meaningful impact on the lives of young women."

The ‘Uzitabe’ singer acknowledged that sexual harassment is a problem in the Rwandan music industry and shared how she overcame it to be who she is today.

She said, "Some female artistes have experienced sexual harassment, although it hasn't happened to me personally. However, I am aware that it still happens to others.

I focused on achieving my own goals and knowing my worth as an artist, and I kept pushing forward to get to where I am today.

I hope that my example inspires other young women to do the same, and to speak out against sexual harassment."

She expressed her hope that young girls would be positively influenced by her music and the example she sets as an artist.

"I strive to positively impact the next generation, not just young girls, but all youth. I hope my music and journey inspire young girls to pursue their dreams and to know their worth, despite any challenges they may face."

Butera also explained her approach when handling social media criticism of her music.

She said, "I choose to ignore online gossip and negativity. If I let myself get caught up in other people's opinions, I won't be able to achieve my goals and aspirations as an artist.

So I focus on what I do best and don't worry about what others have to say about my music. I'm confident in my abilities and trust that my hard work will speak for itself."

The singer is optimistic about the current state of Rwanda's music industry and sees great potential in it.

"Our music industry has made great strides and is quickly rising to prominence. Looking back at where we started, the growth is undeniable, and I believe we have some of the most talented artists in East Africa,” she said.

Butera added, "However, to reach our full potential, we need more time to continue developing and to gain exposure to a wider audience. The support of investors and music industry professionals will be crucial in this process, and I'm confident that we can achieve great things."

On how she campares single Knowless Butera and a married one, she said there is no big difference between the two but the growth and expansion.

Reflecting on her personal growth, she explained, "While my marital status may have changed, the core of who I am remains the same.

The main difference between the 'single' and 'married' versions of myself is that I've matured and become a mother, which has given me a different perspective and new responsibilities.

However, my passion for music and drive to succeed have remained constant throughout my journey."

Responding to questions about potential restrictions on her musical content, the ‘Baramushaka’ hit maker explained, "There are certain topics and themes that I will not sing about because they do not align with my personal values and beliefs.

This has nothing to do with my marital or motherhood status, but rather reflects who I am at my core.

My heart and soul guide me in my songwriting, and there are some words that you will never hear in my lyrics, as they are not a part of my character or values."

Butera praised her fellow artiste Bruce Melodie for his performance on 'Good Morning America,' describing it as a significant milestone for Rwandan music.

"I am incredibly proud of Bruce Melodie for this achievement," she said. "It's an enormous step forward not just for him, but for all of us as Rwandan artists.

He is representing our country and our music on a global stage, and that's something we can all take pride in."

Butera revealed her desire to collaborate with several fellow musicians, including gospel singer Alex Dusabe.

"Alex Dusabe is someone I admire and respect, and it would be an honor to work with him. I also have great admiration for international artists like Bruno Mars, Beyoncé, Tiwa Savage, and Asake.

Collaborating with any of these talented musicians would be a dream come true."

Knowless recognized the significant impact that Miss Shanel and Miss Jojo had on her musical career, acknowledging them as role models.

"Miss Shanel and Miss Jojo were trailblazers in the Rwandan music scene, paving the way for many of us who came after them.

They were my role models, and I continue to love and respect them for their contributions to our industry. They