As young as the age of nine, upcoming singer Buster, real name Rapide Patrick, knew that he wanted to be an artist. He fell in love with music, mostly hip hop, that he began lip-synching songs and writing his own in high school. Last year, upon completion of his studies in Computer Science, he decided to hit the studio and is now a member of Dope Records. “I couldn’t imagine pursuing any other career that wasn’t music. Luckily for most members of Dope Records who have been nurturing my talent since, he said. His debut single, ‘Be mine’ was released in May this year, audio and video both produced by Bailey99Beats, together with his other song ‘Igihombo’ that he released early this month. Listening to my songs to my songs it’s hard to tell what kind of genre I’m into because I explore different kinds but I believe I’m mostly drawn to new school hip hop that has some melodies, he says of his genre. Looking up to local rappers Bull Dog and Fireman the 23-year-old, hopes to release more songs and promote them to a wider audience. Challenges As a rising artist, Buster said there are several emerging talents like him in the country but continue to struggle with promoting their music for a wider audience. “The music industry is already challenging for young talents starting out, in terms of financial stability to release and promote our audio and videos. Concert organisers and promoters do not make it any easier as they do not give chance to upcoming artistes to showcase their talent,” he said.
