Renowned Gakondo singer Alphonse Massamba Butera, known by his stage name Masamba Intore, on October 8, thrilled fans alongside other Rwandans artistes after a successful sold-out concert held in Gladstone Theater, Ottawa in Canada. The 56-year-old fondly shared how he was amazed by the atmosphere in the room. “The attendance was unexpected but I was amazed. The diaspora is thirsty and eagerly want to hear beautiful messages from their homeland,” he said. Massamba added: “It so heartwarming to see how Rwandans in the diaspora are quick to celebrate the country and associate with the roots especially in Gakondo songs.” He mentioned that, “Gakondo music is great, loved by many and filled with artistic skills which transcend boundaries and reach widely.” “This was evidenced at the event, when foreign revelers approached me and vocally admitted to be diehard fans of my music. They also promised to come to visit Rwanda soon,” he added. ALSO READ: Masamba’s journey to liberation music It also speaks more of who we are, where we come from not leaving behind culture which is appreciated by many.” The ‘Araje’ hitmaker believes that the Gakondo style has created its own identity which ultimately has created culture tourism. He urged young people to never go astray and copy too much from others. “It becomes unique when you don’t copy too much and express your own ideas. Young people should embrace their own beautiful culture.” Massamba was born in Bujumbura, Burundi, to a family of musicians. His father, Athanase Sentore, named him ‘Masamba’ after a Congolese politician known for his revolutionary ideas of freedom and liberty. He is famously known for his first songs: ‘Kanjogera’,’Ikizungerezi’, ‘Araje’, ‘Uwanyoye Inka’, ‘Ibimbabaza’,’Mpinganzima’ to mention but a few. All these songs are example of Gakondo style. He was supposed to perform at two concerts in Canada, one in Edmonton dubbed ‘Roots and grounds festival’ and the one in Ottawa. However, he couldn’t perform at the former because he was still mourning his nephew. ALSO READ: Remembering Young CK: Fellow musicians pay tributes “I wasn’t in good position to perform at Roots and ground Festival because I am still grieving my nephew. However, I just attended to wave and extend my greetings to fans and friends and vow to go back later soon as I am well.”
