In 2020, Rwanda experienced a surge of new talent in its music industry, bringing forth a wave of fresh sounds and innovation. Leading this musical revolution was a young producer known by the tag ‘ELEEH’, whose signature could be heard on many, if not all, of the hit songs produced during this period. Leading this movement was none other than Fred Robinson Mugisha, widely recognised as Element, a producer who, at the time, was affiliated with Country Records, a prominent music label founded by Noopja, a key figure in Rwanda’s contemporary music landscape. ALSO READ: Producer Element on making hits, steering Rwanda’s music industry in right direction Paul Nduwimana, also known as Noopja, discovered the young producer in 2019 and nurtured his talent, positioning him as a formidable force in Rwanda’s music landscape through his newly established label. The rest, as they say, is history. The roots of Noopja’s influence can be traced back to Rusizi, his hometown, he initiated groundbreaking events aimed at uniting communities and showcasing the power of music and entertainment. “It all began with intimate gatherings I organised in Rusizi, including annual Christmas events focused on uplifting street children. Through mentorship programmes, these initiatives have not only transformed lives but also empowered former street children to become community leaders,” shared Noopja, reflecting on the origins of his passion for the arts. Driven by a desire to inspire cultural pride and foster unity among the youth, Noopja expanded his endeavours. He ventured into organising large-scale events such as the “All White Party” and Miss Rusizi competitions, which captivated audiences while celebrating local culture. The journey to Country Records In 2017, Noopja embarked on founding Country Records—a platform committed to fostering home-grown talents. Credited with pioneering initiatives that reshaped Rwanda’s music scene, Country Records played a role in propelling local artistes onto the global stage. The highlight moment for Country Records came in 2019 when Noopja encountered one of Element’s beats. Recognising the producer’s potential, Noopja went above and beyond, persuading Element’s parents that their son possessed the talent and drive to flourish as a music producer. ALSO READ: Country Records signs new producers The parents, unaware of the journey ahead, entrusted their young son to Noopja’s care. Little did they realise that he would soon emerge as one of the region’s most prominent producers and a celebrated artist in his homeland. Under Element’s hands, a string of chart-topping hits emerged, including “Henzapu”, “Saa Moya” by Bruce Melodie, “Formula” by Juno Kizigenza, “Kola” by The Ben, “Carolina” by Meddy, “Ikanisa” by The Mane artistes, and many others. Despite his departure from Country Records to join its competitor 1:55AM ENT, Element’s musical legacy continued to resonate and Country Records didn’t close business. ALSO READ: Is Element’s exit from Country Records a huge mistake? Reflecting on Element’s departure, Noopja remained undeterred, “After Element’s departure from our label, I brought more talents on board and we are focused on doing what has never been done in Rwanda’s music scene. I have Pakkage, Prince Kiiiz, Kozze, and many others who all share the same interest of pushing Rwanda’s music industry forward.” Pioneering Afro Gako Country Records embarked on a mission that extended far beyond nurturing young talents—it pioneered Afro Gako, a fusion genre that blends Afrobeat rhythms with traditional Rwandan melodies. Described by the visionaries behind the label as “the future of Rwandan music”, Afro Gako represents a leap forward in musical innovation. “This ground-breaking initiative,” remarked Noopja, “will not only celebrate Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage but also captivate global audiences with its distinctive sound. It fills the gaps within the industry and shows a new era of our music, it is the future.” According to Noopja, Afro Gako will provide Rwandan music with a distinct identity akin to South Africa's Amapiano or West Africa's Afrobeats, enabling local artistes to compete on the global stage.
