Gospel artiste to launch debut DVD tomorrow

Gospel recording artiste Alphonse Bahati is set to launch his debut DVD entitled, “Mfite ibyiringiro” tomorrow at Rubavu’s ADEPR parish church.

Friday, July 12, 2013
Alphonse Bahati. The New Times / File.

Gospel recording artiste Alphonse Bahati is set to launch his debut DVD entitled, "Mfite ibyiringiro” tomorrow at Rubavu’s ADEPR parish church.The DVD comprises nine tracks with its first single "Urupfu nari gupfa” already enjoying airplay on most local stations.In an interview, Bahati said his gospel music targets both the young and old people."My music carries a message of hope to uplift and encourage Christians to remain steadfast in their faith in Christ."The journey of life is not easy. It is my first DVD and I wanted to capture the essence of life as well as teach people how to conduct themselves while on earth,” he said.Bahati said the DVD has a fusion of Zulu, Afrobeat and Ikinimba, one of the most revered musical traditions in Rwanda."The objective of this DVD, launch is to raise funds to build a big ADEPR church here in Rubavu because this one doesn’t have the capacity to accommodate all the church members,” Bahati told The New Times.Some of the performers at the launch will include Alex Dusabe, Emmanuel Rudahezwa, Capt. Simon Kabera and various Rubavu based ADEPR choirs, such as Hoziana, Bethfage and Impuhwe.InspirationThe 40-year-old artiste said his Zulu style was inspired by South African renowned musicians Rebecca Malope and Brenda Fassie.In an effort to make his mark on the music scene, Bahati has performed at live shows with his most memorable one being in 2011 during a charity concert in support of orphans and widows of former employees of Bralirwa killed on January 19, 1998 by the Interahamwe militia in the Western Province.Bahati’s songs encourage Christians to abstain from bad practices and follow Jesus Christ’s principles and teachings for a daily life full of victories.The 2013 Groove Awards winner and Africa Gospel Music Awards nominee, is famous for songs such as "Birasohoye” and "Shima Imana”, among others.