Rwanda's rap music scene is growing fast, and music producers are a big part of it, creating beats and melodies that catch listeners' attention. In this overview, The New Times brings attention to some hip hop/rap producers who stood out in 2023. We're looking at their popular hits, initiatives, collaborations with well-known artists, streaming success, and other noteworthy accomplishments that had an impact on the evolving music scene. Kina Beat At 26 years old, Clement Nshimiyimana—better known as Kina Beat—remains at the forefront of the industry's growth. In 2023, he spearheaded the establishment of the rap collective, Kgl’s Finest, providing a wave of rap freestyles featuring talents like Prime Mazimpaka, Sagamba, Gurin, and Mutha II. Adding to his impressive repertoire, Kina Beat contributed to Ish Kevin’s debut album, 'BST,' producing the opening track, 'Get Paid,' in collaboration with producer Abraw. His production prowess extended further, appearing on Juno Kizigenza’s inaugural album, 'Yaraje,' and Bruce the 1st’s mixtape, 'Ask and Receive.' ALSO READ: Meet Kina Beat, one of the producers behind the boost of drill music in Rwanda Notably, Kina Beat's achievement for the year was his role in crafting one of the most monumental rap collaborations, 'Blessed,' featuring Wamunigga alongside talents like Bushali, Bulldog, Bruce the 1st, Papa Cyangwe, B-Threy, Fireman, and Jaypac. Pro Zed Regarded as Rwanda's preeminent rap producer, Darcin Shema Ngabonziza, renowned as Pro Zed, marked an outstanding year in the industry. His notable contributions include tracks like Addictions alongside Juni Quickly and his featured role as a rapper on the viral sensation 'Niki Utumva.' Pro Zed appeared on a list of producers for Bruce the 1st’s mixtape 'Ask and Receive' and produced, rapped on the track 'Smoke' with Kenny K-Shot and Arnaud Gray. While foregoing a studio project release this year, Pro Zed made waves with the launch of his podcast, 'Get Paid Podcast.' The podcast, a platform for insightful discussions, hosted figures such as Bulldog, Ish Kevin, Ririmba, Bruce the 1st, Kenny K Shot, Kivumbi King, Angell Mutoni, and Nickita Heaven, among others. ALSO READ: Loud Sound Music’s new podcast to tackle issues in Rwandan music The episodes delve into thought-provoking biographies and highlight the creative processes within the music business. Juni Quickly While not a household name for many, Juni Quickly, a 19-year-old drill prodigy whose real name is Junior Ibambe, entered the scene under Ish Kevin’s label and recording studio, Trappish Records, straight out of high school. Swiftly making a mark, he played a role in Ish Kevin’s debut album, producing three tracks: 'Addictions' with Pro Zed, 'BST,' and 'Gutsinda' (outro). Expanding his influence within Trappish Records, Juni Quickly took charge of the entire production for '2k3,' the debut project of in-house rapper Hollix. Beyond studio work, Juni Quickly cultivated an international following through his YouTube channel, where he shares non-profit beats. With over 4,800 subscribers and more than 670,000 views, his channel has become a hub for enthusiasts. Adding to his portfolio, the young producer also worked on tracks with French drill rapper Venom CZ this year. Ehlers At the age of 20, Anthony Moses Ehlers has become a prominent figure in Kigali's music scene, having produced hits that resonated throughout 2023. As the lead producer for experimental rapper thedicekid’s debut mixtape, 'Infinity Pack,' Ehlers was one to watch this year. His produced tracks like 'Darling,' 'Come Closer,' and 'Lowkey' with Romeo Kartel, 'Contract' with Pro Zed and Nillan, and 'Like U Do'—all apart of Kenny K-Shot’s playlist, 'Superman.' Furthermore, Ehlers left worked on Bruce the 1st’s tape, 'Ask and Receive.’ Notably, 2023 marked Ehlers' entry into the music scene as an artist. His debut tape, 'Ehlers the illest,' featured collaborations with acts like Xeventeen, Trizzie 96, Og2tone, Maestroboomin, Kenny K Shot, and Bobby Bangs, among others. ALSO READ: How Ehlers produced his debut EP ‘Ehl3rs the illest’ The rapper, producer also released six singles and two freestyles throughout the year. The Illusionist The Illusionist, a producer with a penchant for low-key existence, eschews headlines and stage appearances, he’s a part of the rap collective '99 Gang,' comprising members Bryan, Kellz, Skid, G Flag, and T-Rex. The Illusionist's crowning achievement this 2023 is 'DIREKTT!,' hailed by some fans as the standout Rwandan rap album of 2023. This family album featured 99 Gang, thedicekid, Insibika, Paintedblvck, and Feggy. The album appeared to numerous rap playlists throughout the year. Honorable Mentions: Logic Hit It, Joka$h, Bobly Made It, Muriro, and Bailey Pro also played their role in crafting Rwandan hiphop hits this 2023.
