Mike Kirenga, also known as Khire, is carving his path in Afrobeat music. His musical journey began in church halls, where gospel harmonies first piqued his interest. Guided by his mother, a Sunday school teacher and choir leader, Khire discovered his early love for music in this setting. Born on November 17, 2001, as the eldest of five siblings, Khire joined the church choir at eight years old, setting the stage for his future in music. Though he began pursuing music professionally two years ago, Khire's connection to music spans over a decade. Music has been part of my life since childhood, he reflects. ALSO READ: AY talks music path, founding ‘GMF,’ repping street culture Khire’s artistry is shaped by a mosaic of musical influences. From global icons like R. Kelly and Chris Brown to local legends such as Oliva Ngoma and Kamaliza, his sound is a seamless blend of traditional Rwandan rhythms and modern Afrobeat. In 2024, Khire expanded his discography with hits like Tona, Irebe, and Berwa, collectively garnering hundreds of thousands of streams. As he sets the tone for 2025, the momentum shows no signs of slowing. His latest track, 250 Girls, is set to drop soon, and he featured alongside Afrobeat veteran Davis D. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Davis D Shine Bowy (@davisd_official) My music is a reflection of life itself, Khire shares, citing personal experiences, Rwanda’s cultural heritage, and global trends as his inspiration. This fusion allows him to create songs that resonate deeply with listeners while staying rooted in his origins. Like many rising artists, Khire navigates challenges such as limited access to high-quality production, stiff industry competition, and the delicate balance between creative vision and financial realities. Yet, his resolve remains unwavering. ALSO READ: AY’s ‘Ideas’ Mixtape Review: The beats, lyrics fueling GMF’s breakthrough Khire’s ambitions stretch far beyond the local stage. Over the next five years, he envisions releasing a full album, securing international collaborations, and embarking on global tours. His vision also includes mentoring budding talent, reflecting a desire to contribute to the growth of Rwanda’s music scene while pursuing his success.
