Renowned gospel artiste Aimé Uwimana, best known for the timeless worship anthem Muririmbire Uwiteka, has said that talent and music as a calling have made him the gospel musician he is today.
Uwimana was Fally Merci’s special guest for the "Meet Me Tonight” segment of the Gen Z Comedy Show held at Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village (KCEV) on September 25.
The comedy show attracted average turn up after rain blocked some to attend and fill in the venue as they normally do.
Despite the challenges, comedy still won but the presence of fan favourite Uwimana turned the comic evening into an absolute soulful and inspiring exchange.
For more than two decades, the veteran singer has established himself as a trailblazer in Rwandan gospel music. His legendary songs continue to inspire upcoming artistes, cementing his place as one of the most influential figures in the gospel music industry.
Uwimana revealed that he started singing in 1993 while in school in Bujumbura, the same year he gave his life to Christ.
He recalled that his pastor at the time introduced him as "the Bishop of the church,” a nickname that has followed him ever since.
When asked why he chose gospel music, Uwimana explained that his initial motivation was simply passion but over time, he discovered deeper meaning in his craft.
"I loved gospel music, but as I dived into it, I realized it was more than just that. It was a calling and a talent, which helped me to be where I am today,” he said.
He added that this foundation kept him focused on his spiritual calling, even after realizing that music could also be financially rewarding. According to him, success should never be the starting point.
"It’s more helpful if you don’t focus on success while starting, but rather on doing something you love and something important,” he emphasized.
Speaking about salvation, Uwimana reminded his audience that being saved is about accepting Christ and embracing the meaning of his sacrifice.
"It is about knowing the work Jesus did on the cross to save us and what it means to your life to accept Christ in our lives and walk with Him,” he explained.
The artiste also shared a lighthearted memory from his early singing days. While performing with his mother in front of an audience, he froze in fear and couldn’t sing a word, an experience that remains one of his funniest moments.
Offering advice to aspiring gospel musicians, Uwimana urged them to focus on what they can give rather than what they expect to receive.
"You reap what you sow. Artistes should first think of what they bring or offer to the world, because that’s what eventually gives you outcomes,” he said.
Uwimana’s music is celebrated for its unique blend of praise and worship, seamlessly incorporating genres like Zouk, Salsa, Pop, Reggae, and classical elements.
Among his most popular songs are Urakwiriye Gushimwa, Uwiteka Araje, Akira Amashimwe, and Ku Misozi Yose (Thank You).