On Tuesday November 21, Bertrand Muheto, aka B Threy, one of Rwanda's biggest rappers and a pioneer of the Kinyatrap sub-genre, claimed that mixing music and politics is a wrong move, seeing how it could limit creativity and halt the local music industry's progress into the international arena. The rapper was referring to The Ben, another top musician, who recently told the media that Rwandan artistes should not get involved in any kind of feuds, citing Rwanda's history as the reason why such activities don't deserve a place in the music industry. How do you mix music with politics, it will limit our creativity, the rapper posted on X. The comment has since sparked a debate on the internet, with the majority disagreeing with the rapper's views on the tension, while others side with him, leaving many music lovers and industry stakeholders with one question... Should music involve politics?” Also read: Challenges affecting the growth of Rwanda’s music industry The answer to the question relies on the core goal and intention of music production, which is not only to entertain, but also tell stories that can change lives of individuals and impact the masses. For the past many years, Rwandan music has played a big role in shaping the collective consciousness of the Rwandan people, and this is visible today such as local artistes playing a key role in the TunyweLess campaign, which was recently launched by the Government of Rwanda to tackle alcohol consumption among its people, especially the youth, after a recent survey showed a significant increase in alcohol consumption among young people. Rwandan entertainers like Tom Close and Bruce Melodie among others, have already started using their platform in calling the youth to reduce alcohol consumption, a move that shows possible signs of curbing the issue. The influence of music does not only stay in TunyweLess campaign, but also many other aspects and among them is how Rwandan artistes like Ama G The Black, Karigombe and Fireman recently joined forces to call for widespread support for the visually impaired during the annual celebration of ‘White Cane Awareness Day’ held on November 15. The impassioned plea came following an impactful event hosted by the Rwanda Union of the Blind (RUB), shedding light on the challenges faced by the visually impaired in their daily lives. Also read: Rwandan artistes rally for visually impaired on white cane awareness day Rapper Ama G is among the artistes who believe that they have a responsibility to use their platform to convey powerful messages. “After experiencing their challenges, I was inspired to create an advocacy project through songs to raise awareness about their needs and rights. My advocacy, however, will not be on the side of the visually impaired only, it will be dedicated to people with disabilities in general,” the rapper said recently during the annual celebration of ‘White Cane Awareness Day’ that takes place every November 15. AmaG The Black in 2021, also released a song dubbed ‘Inkebebe’, featuring Peace Jolis that condemns corruption. Preserving Rwandan culture The Rwandan music industry has also played a key role in preserving cultural heritage, acting as a vessel for passing down traditions from one generation to the next. Traditional instruments such as the Inanga, Umuduri, and Ikembe are frequently featured in Rwandan music, connecting contemporary artistes with their ancestral roots. Also read: Why ‘Gakondo’ might be the future of Rwandan music Through a combination of traditional elements, musicians pay homage to their cultural legacy, ensuring that age-old stories and customs are not forgotten in the modern world. Healing and uniting Music was among the tools used to advance genocide ideology during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, but in the aftermath of such trauma, music also played a crucial role in the healing process of survivors. Also read: How music has healed the Genocide wounds The likes of Munyeshoza, aka Mibilizi, Mariya Yohana, Eric Senderi and many others are among popular musicians in the country today, using music to restore hope, promote reconciliation and facilitate the healing process. Artistes also use their craft to address the emotional scars of the past, fostering a sense of release for both themselves and their audience. Songs become a means of collective mourning, remembrance, and ultimately, a celebration of resilience. Also, festivals, concerts, and traditional celebrations provide platforms for Rwandans to connect with their shared identity and forge new narratives of unity. Artistes, in turn, become cultural ambassadors, promoting a sense of national pride and solidarity. Additionally, as Rwandan artistes gain international recognition, they become ambassadors of their culture on the global stage. Through collaborations, performances, and participation in global music events, Rwandan musicians raise the Rwandan flag high. This global reach not only showcases the richness of Rwandan music but also challenges stereotypes and fosters a deeper understanding of the nation's development journey.
