Uganda’s Judith Babirye coming to Kigali

Uganda’s gospel music sensation Judith Babirye is among the artistes queued up to perform at Tonzi’s forthcoming album launch concert, which is slated for November 4 at the picturesque Kigali Serena Hotel.

Saturday, October 20, 2012
Rwandau2019s Tonzi

Uganda’s gospel music sensation Judith Babirye is among the artistes queued up to perform at Tonzi’s forthcoming album launch concert, which is slated for November 4 at the picturesque Kigali Serena Hotel.According to buzz from the organisers of the show, which has been dubbed East African Gospel Concert, performers will include several top-notch artistes from across East Africa. Popular Burundian musician Dudu is among those expected to perform. Tonzi, one of Rwanda’s most popular gospel musicians, will be unveiling her third album, Izina Ryiza. The soulful singer, whose real name is Clemetine Uwitonze, told The Sunday Times: "This album is loaded with 9 songs, two of which have their video clips already out.” Tonzi’s project, which will be available in Kigali music stores immediately after the launch concert, has already spawned hits like Impundu, Uzahora uri Imana and Witinya among others. For the uninitiated, Tonzi hit the local music scene in 1999 with songs like Nshaka Kubana Nawe and Nzana Ngusingiza, which instantly catapulted her into the glare of publicity. But her first album, Humura, came in 2008. This was followed with Wambereye Imana, which was officially launched in 2010. And now, if everything goes as planned, Tonzi wants to release at least one album each year.  For Tonzi’s fans, the East African Gospel Concert will set you back by Rwf5,000 for general happiness and Rwf10,000 for VIP stands. And as you pay your dime, Tonzi wants you to know this: "I do not sing to make money, but to give people joy, love, hope and happiness that is based on the power of the Almighty God.” Amen to that!