Usa n’u Rwanda ft. Icyogere Mubahungu is the 10th track and probably among the best of the 12 tracks which are on Jules Sentore’s recently released album "Umudende.”
Through 3 minutes and 36 seconds, every line of the song celebrates the beauty of Rwandan culture, spirit, heritage, and accomplishments, elements that everyone is called to recognize and embrace at maximum capacity.
The album, released on August 1, was made on the concept of Umudende, a recent medal of bravery awarded to heroes who bring honor to Rwanda. It reflects Rwandan cultural values, such as fulfilling one’s promises and being honored for it.
Sentore, one Rwanda’s leading Gakondo musicians, explains that the release date was purposefully chosen to highlight the strong connection between traditional music and Rwanda’s cultural heritage, especially the values celebrated during Umuganura.
Tracks on the album include, Rutemikirere, Ikirenga, Urumamo, Inka ft. Rugaba, Inkuru y’abahungu, Juru ry’Inyamibwa, Umutasi, Indamutsa ft. Bakuri, Karimi, Minwanziga, and Nkuyo ft. Nkuba.
Each song also tells part of Sentore’s personal journey from his struggles, his musical growth, and the legacy he hopes to leave for future generations.
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Ritemikirere is the first track on the discography. While speaking with The New Times, he said that the song calls everyone on board to clear the skies, elevate the country by fulfilling their individual responsibilities, and return as winners, since Rwanda has a unique way of staying on the right path.
Another song that stands out is Nkuyo. Normally, Inkuyo is a traditional special grass used to clean or manage flies from cows, as a way of caring for them and appreciating their presence in the moment. Sentore said that every Rwandan is like that grass because Rwanda chose them even before they made any choice themselves. They are perfectly suited for the nation.
"You are Nkuyo, the one that can decorate Rwanda, bring comfort to the nation, and therefore live and live better. You deserve it. That’s the true meaning of Kwanda (expansion),” he explained.
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The album was produced by Madebeats, one of Rwanda’s top music producers, and is now available on major streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, Audiomack, and YouTube.
Born Jules Bonheur, Jules Sentore is a renowned figure in Rwanda’s Gakondo. He's known for his dedication to promoting Rwandan heritage, and has built a solid reputation through hits like Umpe Akanya,Udatsikira, Warakoze, Sine ya Mwiza,Icyeza, and Diarabi.
He has performed in major concerts including "Inganzo Yaratabaye” in 2019, and has been a finalist in notable competitions such as Primus Guma Guma Super Star and the Salax Awards.
His first album ‘Muraho Neza’ was released in 2013, followed by ‘Indashyikirwa’ in 2017. With over a decade in the music industry, Sentore has paved the way for other traditional artists and played a key role in reviving enthusiasm in Rwanda's Gakondo both locally and internationally.