At the age of 21, Michael Makembe is one of the few Rwandan performers that can sing ‘Afro-fusion’ and play different music instruments at the same time.

The singer, songwriter and producer has also invested time to train aspiring young singers how to play different music instruments, Rwandan values, culture, pride and the history of the country. 

He does this under his record label known as TBK Records located in Kiyovu. He is also a songwriter, and music producer.

Like many singers, Makembe also uses YouTube to share his music with the world that includes songs like Shine Africa, Tambuka, Hallelujah, Amayugi, Mapenzi and many more.

The local artist had a chat with Sunday Magazine’s Joan Mbabazi about the rising popularity of afro-fusion music in Rwanda.

Tell us about afro-fusion music, why did you choose to focus on this style.

First of all, I am proud to be an afro-fusion singer. Afro-fusion music is the kind of music that speaks to the ordinary person. It is a blend of contemporary music imbued with traditional rhythms of Africa and creates a style of music that is attractive to the ear.   How did you venture into music? 

I started singing at the age of 10. Our teachers selected me to compose and sing at the end of the year closing ceremony at my Primary school. Although I wasn’t good at song composing, I asked my mother to help me write songs.

Makembe performs during Youth Connekt Africa Summit at the Kigali Convention Centre last year.

The first song she wrote for me was "Thanks mama,” a song that appreciates the strength of a mother. Luckily enough, the song won me a scholarship for Secondary school education. That is when I realized that there are opportunities in music.

Did you take any lessons to enhance your talent?

After accomplishing secondary, I joined the Nyundo School of Music and Arts in Muhanga, where I graduated in 2017. This is where my singing skills were molded and polished. However, I taught myself how to play musical instruments through the help of YouTube tutorials.

Have you released any song yet?

Usually, I sing my songs live at events, although I haven’t released any yet. I am working on an album that I want to release when it is ready. I don’t want to release half-baked music.

Being a music producer, which musicians do you work with?

My record label is a platform that supports many young aspiring singers especially those still in school. Once you have a talent or interest in recording something, it is the right place to exercise young talents.

How does afro-fusion music differ from other music genres?

The vibe of the music is different because I use special instruments for instance; the kalimba (ekyembe), harmonica (this is a French harp used in many musical genres, notably in blues, American folk music, classical music, jazz, country, rock),  and the guitar. 

What do you think needs to make local music get recognition out of Rwanda?

Most of us don’t trust ourselves, if we did, we wouldn’t be copying music styles from ether Nigeria, or Jamaica, or America. Copying doesn’t make our music any unique. We are so blessed with our culture and diverse local instruments that we can use to sell our music, portraying our culture to the rest of the world.

Why haven’t Rwandans put too much emphasis on afro-fusion music?

Some Rwandans think their local music can’t sell because they are seeing what is trending is American, Jamaican, Caribbean and Nigerian music, forgetting that these musicians are focusing on their original music. 

The beauty of doing our own music is that we don’t pretend to be someone else. We need to build a community that loves its own music.

editor@newtimesrwanda.com