With just two songs to their name, gospel duo, James and Daniella Rutagarama, also just known as James and Daniella, are already a household name thanks to their uplifting songs, "Mpa amavuta” and "Nkoresha” that were released this year.

The couple has been married for four years, with two children, and have been singing in several choirs Joyous Melody, of Four Square Church, Kimironko, as well as popular gospel choir, True Promises.

They, however, established themselves as a music duo this year, after composing their own prayer songs.

The couple performs on their wedding four years ago‭. ‬Courtesy‭. ‬

"When we got married, we discovered that we had complimentary talents and decided to sing together, since we had new songs of prayer that we wanted to share with the world. We sing gospel music because it is our calling as children of God,” James explained.

Although only married for four, the couple reveal that they met a long time ago, ministering in different choirs.

"Our relationship started when we were students, living in Uganda. We were very close friends, and were in several worship teams. We sung together for approximately three years in choirs and worship teams in Rwanda, before they got married,” said Daniella.

Daniella, however, started singing when she was very young. She was always involved in a musical group, singing in children choirs, teenage choirs, and even went on to minister in the church choir while at university. James on the other hand, was never involved in music as a child.

The couple write their own songs, together, and believe they made the right decision to sing as a duo, as it has always been part of their lives. They attribute their success to their cooperation and support for each other.

"As newly established artistes, we are very grateful for the good reception that Rwandans have given our music and the opportunity it has granted us to meet many people, among whom have ended up giving their lives to Christ,” James, also a guitarist said. Besides pursuing their passion music, James and Daniella are also entrepreneurs, although they did not wish to disclose the details of the business.

They said that they have more uplifting gospel songs, composed and recorded as a duo, in the pipeline. At the time of the interview, the couple was rushing to studio to put final touches to their three songs, which they hope to release very soon.

editor@newtimesrwanda.com