Rwanda's thriving and expanding worship scene is welcoming fresh voices, some of whom were previously unexpected or even seen as comedians. One such case is 36-year-old Gloriose Musabyimana, best known on social media as Gogo Gloriose, a devoted gospel singer whose music, particularly her hit song “Everyday, I Need Blood of Jesus,” is going viral. Gogo Gloriose, has recently captured the attention of netizens with her appearances on social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok. Her snippets of singing and humorous commentary, often turned into memes, made her familiar to many. This eventually led people to discover her work, including her Christmas-inspired song “Uwo Mwana”. Gogo has so far released three songs on her YouTube platform. She credits her current advisor, Augustin Nsabimana, for guiding her journey. She revealed that her musical journey began in her local church choir, ‘Umucyo’ at an Anglican church where she wrote three songs before embarking on her own journey she describes as a “calling.” In 2022, a friend encouraged her to refine her compositions and pursue music professionally. “I thank him for his guidance and his encouragement. He’s the one who advised me to create my YouTube channel and start my solo career,” she told The New Times. However, she said, financial constraints delayed the release of her music. Until January 10, Gogo Gloriose was just like any other local entertainer on social media. However, after renowned South African YouTuber and musician David Scott, popularly known as ‘The Kiffness, reproduced her song Everyday, I Need Blood of Jesus, a new chapter began and her name gained more attention. The 2:45 video was uploaded on YouTube on January 10 and has since garnered over 166,000 views. ALSO READ: South African Star The Kiffness reproduces viral Rwandan gospel song The Kiffness immediately assured Gogo Gloriose that she “would receive her fair share on streaming revenues of the song.” And he kept his word as both parties have confirmed the payment of proceeds from the video. Previously, a contract was signed regarding the payment, which The Kiffness faithfully fulfilled. As a result, Gogo Gloriose, who currently resides in Fumbwe Sector of Rwamagana District in Rwanda's Eastern Province, successfully received the money whose figure remains confidential. Coming across the viral song, The Kiffness’ insight The Kiffness told The New Times that he discovered the original song through social media after a friend shared the video with him. Inspired by its message, he decided to do its remix. “The video was sent to me via Instagram and TikTok. As a Christian, the song resonated with me deeply. While some may have laughed at Gogo, I saw her sincerity, and I felt her song was a true act of worship before God,” he said in an interview. The Kiffness explained that his remix was both an artistic touch and a personal act of faith. “I decided to do a remix of the song to show what is possible when you give the song more depth. It was also an act of worship and a declaration of my own faith. I hope it uplifts Gogo and inspires other believers,” he added. Receiving royalties, looking ahead... “I'm going to produce more songs now that I’ve received additional support. This means a lot to me. My advisor has been incredibly helpful, and we’ll continue working together,” Gogo Gloriose said. Addressing comments about her physical appearance, the singer clarified that it is natural and it is not in any way related to any medical condition. “I have no issues with my appearance, and it has no impact on my life. You can’t stop people from talking, but this is how God planned it, and I’m grateful for everything. I live a normal life like anyone else, “she explained. Gogo Gloriose completed her ordinary-level secondary education. Previously, she did street vending of fresh fruits until she quit it to focus entirely on her music career. ALSO READ: Why cover songs are becoming more popular Gogo Gloriose’s work is often misunderstood but should be taken seriously, according to Augustin Nsabimana, one of the singer’s advisors. “It’s not a comedy, and people need to understand that this is a serious business. We are committed to consistently producing songs rather than focusing on casual YouTube interviews like we previously did,” he said. “We are shifting our efforts into promotion of her music on television, participating in various concerts, and more,” he further explained.
