Ruti Joel, one of the leading traditional singers in Rwanda, has released his first album dubbed ‘Musomandera’. The album, dedicated to his mom, is Ruti Joel’s first big project ever since he ventured into the business of making music in 2012. The 10-track album that debuted on all streaming platforms this Tuesday, January 10, has no features apart from Yvan Buravan’s contribution in composing some of the tracks on the album. Speaking to The New Times, the ‘Igikobwa’ hit maker said that Musomandera (his mother's name and title of the album) is for the culture and showcases the beauty and richness of Rwandan culture and traditional sounds. “This is my piece of work that represents the Rwandan culture and love I have for my country. Musomandera is my mom’s name and it means pure love from a mother which is why I took my time to produce this masterpiece,” Ruti told The New Times. “This is for the culture and it has everything that can help one know more about the beauty of Rwandan culture and how our ancestors lived before. It is one for the books!” the traditional singer added. Musomandera follows most of Ruti’s successful tracks from ‘Igikobwa’ to ‘Rusana’ that featured Mike Kayihura and Cyane, all which made him a household name in Rwanda’s music industry. The new album’s track list holds different songs that are already trending on different streaming platforms including Cumda, Nyambo, Rwagasabo, Amaliza, Akadege and many others. The singer ventured into music in 2012 when he joined Gakondo group where Jules Sentore and iconic traditional musician Intore Masamba are members. He started off as a backup singer for different local artistes at concerts. Ruti is currently one of the best musicians who appeared in most music projects of 2022 such as Rwanda Rw’ejo 2, Buravan’s ‘Twaje’ among others.
