Rwandan singer Kaya Byinshii, is among the finalists of Prix Découvertes RFI 2023, a singing competition organised by Radio France Internationale (RFI), one of the most listened to international radio stations in the world.
This is the second time that the vocalist is emerging among the finalists of the singing competition, following her 2021 nomination that came as a win for the young generation in Rwanda’s music industry.
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Speaking to The New Times, Kaya said that being recognised twice in such a big competition is a huge opportunity for the Rwandan music industry, especially the young generation.
"It is a big honor and a sign of another chance for me. I am happy to represent and hoping for all your help for voting,” Kaya reacted to getting nominated.
Another thing, she said, winning this year’s Prix Découvertes would be a big tribute to Buravan who was a winner of the competition.
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Kaya was nominated alongside Lil K HPB of Burundi, Jozie from Senegal, Jessy B of Congo and Aynah from Madagascar among many others.
Created in 1981 to highlight new musical talents from Africa each year, the show has featured different Rwandan artistes such as Mani Martin, Mike Kayihura, and Buravan who won the 2018 and 2022 edition.
About Kaya Byinshii
Kaya Byinshii was born and raised in Rwanda and strongly believes in the spiritual power of music.
Her music is a fusion of urban and folk that results into unique sounds, and her sultry voice does not only bring connection with her audience, but also brings many topics avoided by the society to the table.
Growing up as a singer in church, she later joined a band at her University, Viva Musica Band. She later won a grant from Goethe Institute to produce a short video, addressing the perception of differences that normalizes bias, stigma, and racism.
On October 8, 2020, she released her first debut EP, ‘Nyabyinshi’ which loosely translates to "one who owns many”, under Green Ferry Music record label.