Who is the next headed for the US?

Counting Rwandan artists who have shifted base to the US, one realizes that it is a trend rather than a one off.

Sunday, June 17, 2012
Alpha with EVE in Kenya last year.

Counting Rwandan artists who have shifted base to the US, one realizes that it is a trend rather than a one off.From the big names, Alpha, K8 and Lick Lick, to upcoming stars like beauty queen Grace Bahati, a number of Rwanda talents have found their way to the US.Most of them give reasons like studies, joining families and friends, though some disappear even before the media get to know what they are up to. But word has it that most of the artists are looking for greener pastures in the country where showbiz pays more than most professional careers. Who would doubt that, when, Hollywood is full of immigrants from China, Latin America, West Africa, Europe and even next door neighbor- Ethiopia?When Meddy and The Ben apparently stepped off the plane on arrival in the US and became part of the US population, it seemingly opened a trend of shifting talent.   Sure; the Ben has lately been absorbed into church service and can earn enough from gospel music and Meddy is still vying to break onto the music scene of a much bigger and competitive country.With the Rwandan entertainment taking wider steps for the better, and artists beginning to reap big from their talents, one should think twice before jumping on the US bound wagon.For example, Jay Polly had not yet signed a prestigious contract with MTN, and Man Martin or Kitoko had not yet been approached to pose for a billboard banner for cash when most of the talents left.This might well be the time for them to look back, and know where the pastures are greener.