After 10 years as a showbiz reporter Jean Bosco Sengabo is now diversifying his skills to venture into the entertainment industry. Best known as Fatakumavuta Sengabo has released his debut album called Fatalogy through which he communicates his journey and more about the Rwandan entertainment industry. Fatakumavuta joined journalism as a volunteer in 2015. Currently an Entertainment Journalist at Flash FM & TV, he previously worked for Contact FM & TV as well as Kiss FM. “I am actually a good artist whom nobody knew about. So many were surprised (by the album release), but before being a journalist I was a singer…I stopped in 2012 in order to learn more about the music industry.” He describes the album as an open book of his music and journalism journey. The album, which he claims cost him in the region of Rwf12 million, is being sold for Rwf1 million. Arguably the most expensive album in Rwanda’s music history, so far four people have purchased their copies, he says. Fatakumavuta believes this is one way of adding value to the country’s music industry. “When I told people that my Album would be selling at Rwf1 million they couldn’t believe it since it had never happened in Rwanda,” said Sengabo, who aim to sell 10 copies ahead of the official launch. He disclosed that Judith Niyonizera, the ex-wife of local artiste Safi Madiba, and Musbe Black Alélé Toure from Guinea are among the ones who bought the album. “I know the struggles that artists go through which is why I was willing to support Fatakumavuta and the Rwandan music industry as a whole,” Niyonizera says. Niyonizera added that Rwandan artists must know their worth and act accordingly. Toure told The New Times, “Judith told me about the album and I was so interested in buying it. For the sake of supporting Rwandan and African music. It really sounds great to learn that an artist from Rwanda is selling the album worth a million. This adds value to all of us, artists.” The album is made up of 12 songs featuring a total of 25 local artistes. “Most of them are my close friends and they were proud of being on this album. Others are upcoming artists that I support in nurturing their talents.” Fatakumavuta extended his gratitude to his wife, Maman Fata — who was Executive Producer of this album— for the sleepless nights to make the entire project a success. He also expressed his gratitude to all the producers on it. The dates and other details of the album launch are yet to be disclosed. His management team has decided to keep the details a secret.
