The vibrant HipHop community in Rwanda continues to thrive, fueled by collaborations and collectives that bring together emerging talents. Noteworthy crews like 'KinyaTrap Gang,' 'Loud Sound,' 'ZON,' and '99 Gang' exemplify the collaborative spirit that defines the local rap scene. Contributors behind the scenes include producers like Dr. Nganji, Pro Zed, Paco, The Illusionist, AY, among others. They’re all playing a crucial role in shaping the narrative of Rwandan rap.

Collaborations have become a cornerstone in the growth of rap music, allowing artistes to share their unique flows and styles. Social media platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) have played a pivotal role in amplifying the voices of Rwandan artists, with accounts like &039;Rwanda Music Hits,' 'Rwandahiphopmusic,' and 'Kigali_HipHop' curating and promoting the latest releases.

In the spotlight today is the much-discussed mixtape, 'Ndigukaba II,' dropped on December 29, 2023. The sequel to the inaugural 'Ndigukaba' mixtape, known for chart-topping hits like 'Amina,' 'Twari Broke,' 'Ndigukaba,' and 'Got it,' the new release has sparked conversations across social media platforms.

'Ndigukaba' roughly translates to 'taking over,' let's delve into the mixtape and explore its tracks.

1. "Hood" featuring Rayvin Dagga, Madaggy, Taz, and Ghost

The opening track features four promising rappers, notably Madaggy and Taz, who have already gained recognition. Set to a trap 808 beat by AY, the song begins with Rayvin Dagga addressing themes of women, their desires, and societal contrasts. Offering advice to the youth, he emphasizes a healthier lifestyle. Madaggy follows with insights into his music career, while Taz, known for his fast-paced style, adopts a slower flow, delving into street life, addictions, and media portrayal. Ghost, the final rapper, seamlessly blends English and Kiswahili, expressing themes of hard work, lavish living, and defiance against haters. The collaboration showcases a well-rounded performance from all artistes.

2. "Ndakaba" featuring AY, HUNNi, Taz, and PoppA

Produced by AY with an 808-style rap beat, the track incorporates a viral sample expressing resistance to shutting down music operations. AY initiates the rap, addressing enemies and industry snitches. He advises women not interested in him during lean times to stay away once he achieves wealth, emphasizing his determination to amass wealth rapidly.

Taz contributes by highlighting the new sound they're introducing to Kigali streets, catering to those engaged in business discussions. PoppA joins in expressing aspirations to achieve financial success and widespread recognition in Kigali. Indifferent to photos and romantic pursuits, PoppA focuses on wealth creation, dismissing enemies who attempt to impede their progress.

This track stands out as the most rhythmically rich on the tape, combining elements of rap life, real-life experiences, and motivational themes. These artists operate under the collective name Get Money Forever (GMF).

3. "Migo" featuring Soldier Uno and Rod'B

Produced by Cracs Got Real, "Migo'' takes on a drill style with a New York vibe and subtle touches of Arabian instruments. Soldier Uno (formerly Soldier Kid) asserts dominance, providing his contact number '911' for inquiries about who runs the show. He emphasizes detachment from women seeking him solely for physical reasons, prioritizing life lessons and discipline. Rod'B, a member of the KinyaTrap gang, contributes a catchy chorus, expressing confusion about events and refusing to divulge information.

Rod'B then delivers his verse, emphasizing action over words and the benefits of maintaining focus. Soldier Uno reiterates their ascent, financial stability, and bill payments. Rod'B returns, outlining the plan to attract women across different neighborhoods, humorously referencing snatching girls from various areas. Soldier Uno concludes by declaring his rise to the top and independence from seeking assistance.

This track stands out for its engaging adlibs, compelling beat, and coherent synergy between the featured artistes, both known for their fast-paced lyrical delivery.

4. "Ni Muntu Ki?" featuring Drizzy Big L and Soldier Uno

In the fourth track, a distinct approach is taken, with Dope2be producing an emotional jersey afro-type beat. Soldier Uno begins with poetic verses, translating to a declaration of personal independence and growth, emphasizing that his life is not defined by others. The chorus delves into self-reflection, questioning the individual's identity, highlighting attributes like a unique sense of fashion and an independent lifestyle.

Drizzy Big L, an unfamiliar name to me before this mixtape, takes an unconventional approach as he enters the track. His delivery appears offbeat, and the lyrics seem disconnected from the song's overall theme. In his introductory lines, he claims to be the guy adored by women for his entertaining performances. He then utters "NGO," leaving the meaning unclear. Skipping a few seconds, he continues with bars that are extensively censored or inaudible. Towards the end, he regains composure, pondering his identity and that of Soldier Uno, reflecting a potential return to the song's narrative. My assessment leans towards considering his contribution as a stumble, detracting from the overall impact of the track, adding a touch of dramatic disappointment.

5. "Game" featuring Zeo Trap, Chaka, and Bodack

Produced by Juni Quickly and Ayo Mike, "Game" is a drill song, Zeo Trap initiates the track, expressing their entrance into the game with positive vibes and lively slang. He invites listeners to parties where they showcase their dances, awaiting blessings from the trenches while facing opposition.

Chaka, showcasing impressive rhyming skills, crafts verses with intricate wordplay. He addresses themes of financial success, life choices, and the dichotomy of disrespecting up-and-coming artists only to celebrate them once they succeed.

Bodack contributes a Swahili verse, blending it seamlessly with Kinyarwanda. He reflects on the journey to the spotlight, emphasizing life's lessons and his leadership role among fellow rappers in the Kavukire crew. Zeo Trap concludes the track with his creative delivery, incorporating trending topics.

6. "Ipande" featuring JossKid

A melodic trap song, "Ipande" explores the challenges of the rap industry. JossKid delves into the struggles of making a name in the music scene, emphasizing the importance of talent rising above all. The track provides a reflective pause in the mixtape's energetic flow.

7. "Rivals" featuring Ish Kevin

Produced by Cracs Got Real, the beat of this track combines 808s with drill elements. Ish Kevin, a prominent figure in the Rwandan rap scene, uses the song to narrate his real-life experiences. A standout line from the chorus is, "Ish, I need some rivals, it’s lonely at the top."

In the introductory lines, Ish Kevin lays bare his motivations and challenges, expressing the isolation that comes with success. He highlights his relentless work ethic, spending weeks in the studio with nobody there to understand his struggles. Touching on financial pressures, he emphasizes the weight of bills and impending eviction.

As the track unfolds, Ish Kevin delves into the importance of hard work, avoiding distractions, and building an empire. He reflects on his time behind bars, crediting it with instilling extra discipline. He boldly declares his self-sufficiency, rejecting the need for labels, bosses, or sponsors, proudly asserting, "it’s me and the team, I’m just clever."

Ish Kevin's unmatched flow and lyricism shine through as he discusses the societal perception of worth tied to financial status. Confident in his abilities, he envisions a future where his tracks grace billboard charts.

8. "Gee" featuring Hollix

In "Gee," produced by Cracs Got Real, Hollix opens by questioning his friend's uncharacteristic behavior, urging him to listen and reconsider their friendship. He emphasizes the importance of discussing money and questions the fear surrounding him, claiming that people kneel in his presence. Hollix then delves into a reflective verse, pondering the direction of the world led by deceptive figures. He criticizes societal vices such as adultery and alcohol, expressing concern about the consequences if men continue to engage in same-sex relationships. The track explores the impact of Western societal norms on Africans, warning against losing one's identity to the pursuit of clout and fame.

Undoubtedly, "Gee" stands out as the mixtape's deepest track.

9. "Nywa Amazi" featuring Jumpy Boyz and Hollix

Produced by Hubert Beats, this track unfolds on a jersey drill beat. Vendrick19, one of the Jumpy Boys, kicks off the intro, sharing the struggles of trying to make ends meet. He contemplates the difficulty of the journey, questioning whether he should turn to prayer or drugs to navigate the challenges. Amid numerous problems, he expresses the sentiment that people often wonder how he copes. The theme extends to his romantic life, acknowledging the hardships of finding love while facing financial struggles. He concludes that his remaining love is reserved for his brothers.

The Paz, the second member of Jumpy Boyz, maintains the thematic focus. He observes the youth's excessive alcohol consumption, touches on employment issues, and emphasizes his commitment to working hard to support his family. The title, "Nywa Amazi" (translated as "drink water"), takes on a symbolic meaning. Hollix delves into the essence of the title, exploring themes of friendship, navigating enemies, reflecting on past mistreatment, and strategically distancing himself from certain individuals, specifically addressing the presence of snitches in his circle. The track weaves together personal struggles, societal observations, and the complexities of relationships.

10. "Uyu Mwana" featuring Abn X and YK Mugisha

Produced by Hervis Beat, this track stands out from the rest as it takes a departure from the mixtape's predominant styles, adopting an afrobeats vibe. It unfolds as a love song, with the artists expressing their sentiments about a particular woman who is influencing a transformative change in their personalities. The lyrics highlight the impact of being high on this emotional journey. From my personal perspective, this track might have been better suited as a solo release due to its departure from the mixtape's overall theme.

While acknowledging the diversity brought by the various genres dominating "Ndigukaba II," such as trap, drill, and Jersey, I commend the efforts of rappers like Ish Kevin, Hollix, Zeo Trap, Jumpy Boyz and Taz for contributing to the mixtape's uniqueness. However, there's a subtle disappointment in the perceived lack of rhythm in some tracks, with optimism for improvement in future releases.