In the ever-evolving landscape of Rwandan rap, Logan Joe has managed to carve a unique niche for himself with his latest EP, Melodic Diary. This five-track collection not only showcases his growth as an artiste but also offers a refreshing take on the rap scene in Rwanda. Backstory: Logan Joe's evolution In 2019, the Rwandan rap scene was firmly under the sway of a trap sound known as Kinyatrap. It was during this period that I first heard of Logan Joe. He was part of the Loud Sound Cypher, a moment that would later become viral. However, during this cypher, Logan Joe didn't manage to make a significant impression. It's essential to note that the Kinyatrap scene had some challenges. Many rappers seemed to be emulating Bushali, the dominant figure in the game at the time. Those who weren't mimicking Bushali or adopting the Kinyatrap style were often influenced by international artistes, attempting to replicate an American sound. Originality seemed to be in short supply. Nevertheless, it's worth acknowledging that this cypher played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of some of Rwanda's most prominent rap artistes today, and credit must go to its organizers. Logan Joe entered the music scene in 2018 with a track titled KILO, featuring Paccy Kizito. For those who may not recall this track, it made quite an impact. In fact, television stations even adopted its chorus as an intro for some entertainment shows. During this period, Logan Joe experimented with afrobeats, a departure from the conventional rap sound. Fast forward to the end of 2019, Logan Joe released a track titled Sharks Don't Sleep. While the song garnered attention, it didn't quite capture Logan Joe's essence. With its old-school gangsta vibe, it felt like a mismatch for his style. In 2020, Logan Joe dropped a mixtape called Risk. Though the tape had its flaws, the lead track, also titled Risk, stood out. It was during this phase that Logan Joe began to truly find his identity in the rap scene. He ventured into collaborations, appearing on features, and producing several solo tracks. The turning point came in 2021 when Logan Joe released Tricky, possibly one of his most significant solo tracks to date. It marked a departure from conventional rap. Logan Joe embraced melodic rap, a style that was entirely his own. It wasn't influenced by artistes like Lil Tjay, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, or Roddy Rich. Instead, Logan Joe brought a unique flavor to the genre. He skillfully combined melodic flows with drill beats, creating a track that resonated with fans. ‘Tricky’ garnered over 206,000 views on YouTube as of today and proved to be his breakthrough moment. It was clear that Logan Joe had found his calling in melodic rap, and it was a path he was determined to pursue. Let’s delve into his latest work, the Melodic Diary EP. The EP kicks off with Paris (S6), a track that had already made waves before the release of the EP. With over 79,000 views on YouTube, it was a familiar tune for many, especially those active on social media. Logan Joe sets the stage with a straightforward message, pick up the telephone, I know you want to chill. The lyrics touch on mixed emotions, from being ignored to suddenly her lady needing to dine in Paris. Logan reminisces about their high school moments and questions if this newfound interest is genuine or just a game. It's a melodic reflection on an intriguing relationship. Next up is Impuhwe, produced by Kina Beat. When these two collaborate, you know something special is cooking. The track features 808s and a rich infusion of instruments. Logan Joe's emotions take center stage as he contemplates the complexities of love. He ponders whether hearts that no longer desire each other should part ways. The song navigates through the shifting dynamics of a once-happy relationship turned pitiful. In the second verse, Logan switches to an angry tone, expressing a desire to distance himself from the past. Impuhwe is a track that may resonate deeply with those nursing a heartbreak. R or D, the third track, produced by Ehlers, continues Logan Joe's exploration of love and relationships. He delves into the concept of being someone's ride or die. Logan's soft rap style veers away from glorifying violence, sex, or drugs, instead focusing on the softer side of romance. He longs to understand what sets this person apart, envisioning a life where secrets are shared, and the world fades away when they're together. While the track carries romantic sentiments, it doesn't shy away from explicit touches, embracing a desire to please and cherish the beloved. The fourth track, Cry, featuring Rluta and produced by Kina Beat, takes a reflective turn. Logan Joe looks back on his relationship with a sense of regret and longing. He reminds the lady in question of the sacrifices he made for her, emphasizing that his time and efforts were priceless. The chorus of Cry brings them together in a harmonious collaboration. The melodies in this section are nothing short of breathtaking, drawing listeners deeper into the emotional narrative. Both artists declare that they are moving forward with their lives, leaving behind the tears and apologies of the past. The pain runs deep, and they are no longer willing to accept half-hearted gestures of remorse. Rluta's contribution to the track adds a layer of complexity, she articulates a desire for things that money cannot buy, emphasizing the importance of time and emotional connection. She expresses feeling trapped in a cycle, where doubts and uncertainties have taken root. Logan Joe's realization that his reluctance to open up may have contributed to the deterioration of the relationship dawns on him. He recognizes that love alone cannot sustain a partnership; it requires vulnerability and communication. However, this realization comes too late, as the damage has already been done. The emotional depth and raw honesty of Cry make it a standout track on the EP. It's a captivating tale of love, regret, and the irreversible changes that can occur in relationships. Closing the EP is Tornado, produced by Jokassh. This track takes a more subdued approach, allowing listeners to delve into Logan's introspective thoughts. In Tornado, Logan Joe reflects on his journey and acknowledges that he cannot turn back; he's come too far. He expresses a desire to captivate someone like a whirlwind, but it's clear that he's faced with challenges. The lady in question insists he leaves his playboy ways behind, and her presence lingers in his thoughts even though he's pursuing success. One unique aspect of this track is the unexpected infusion of amapiano vibes, which adds an interesting dimension to Logan's melodic rap style. However, the title Tornado seems somewhat disconnected from the song's themes and may leave listeners puzzled, this track may not resonate with everyone due to its unconventional style, I've flagged it a departure from the EP's previous tracks. After listening to the EP, it's evident that Logan Joe has experienced growth, solidified his authentic presence in Rwanda's rap scene, and remained consistent. When collaborating with other artistes, he seamlessly aligns with the overall theme and while he may not dominate every corner, his genuine fans will undoubtedly appreciate his evolution.
