A few years back, Mani Martin was a household name when it came to gospel music.

In his previous album, ‘Urukumbuzi’ Mani Martin mixes gospel, soul and R&B in his music. It’s no surprise that he has made up his mind to go secular, despite his huge fan base in the gospel music industry.

Mani Martin said, "One thing my gospel past and pop-music future have in common is a desire to communicate to the widest possible audience.”

Growing up

The singer, who grew up in Cyangugu in the western province, was born on December 24, 1988 and started singing at the tender age of six years.

As an ADPR church choir member and active singer at Ntura Catholic School choir, the young star caught the attention of teachers and Christians at his church, who helped him to develop his music career.

Stepping into the mainstream

At the age of 11 years, Mani Martin released his first two singles ‘Agapfa kaburiwe ni impongo’ and ‘Umuntu ni iki.’ The songs received massive airtime on local radio stations and were also played in pentecostal churches.
These hits successfully crossed over to the secular market without watering down his message.

Mani Martin has touched audiences across the country and says his fans have enhanced his career. 
"I believe that fans enhance my career. They inspire me to reach for their love and appreciation for my music,” Mani Martin said.

The 21-year-old singer has released hits like; ‘Urukumbuzi’, ‘Icyo dupfana kiruta icyo dupfa’ and ‘Isaha ya cyenda.’

Going secular

The R&B star says he is inspired by Cecile Kayirebwa’s music and has embarked on his secular music career. Mani Martin stopped singing gospel in 2009 after earning for himself a big name as one of the country’s best gospel artists.

He has already released five tracks; ‘Amazi magari’, ‘Urubanza rw’urukundo’ ‘Nyibwirira, ‘Yari wowe’ and ‘Amateke’. His latest tracks are all produced by Lick Lick.

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