Rwandan artistes are showing no signs of slowing down this year as they continue to drop back-to-back hits featuring into regional charts, This week, Rwandan rappers Bushali and Ish Kevin made major comebacks with fresh tracks, while Yee Fanta, an emerging artiste and producer, also released another highly-streamed freestyle. The New Times takes a look at the best new songs released this week. Africa Rise - Ish Kevin Renowned Rwandan rapper Ish Kevin has dropped his first single of 2025 titled ‘Africa Rise.’ The track celebrates the beauty of Africa and emphasizes the importance of unity across the continent. Produced by Juni Quickly and mastered by Bob Pro, Africa Rise is already trending on various streaming platforms. It is the first song that Ish Kevin released since ‘Semana EP,’ which features hits like Bizima and Iki. Tugendane - Bushali Bushali recently released the first visuals from his fourth album, ‘Full Moon,’ that he launched in November 2024. ‘Tugendane,’ was the first single from the album that the rapper dropped with visuals which were uploaded on February 7. Produced by Hubert Beats, ‘Tugendane’ is one of 17 tracks on the album, which includes collaborations with international like Ghanaian producer Stallion and Kenyan rapper Khaligraph Jones as well as Rwandan rap talents like B-Threy and Kivumbi King. Ubuhanuzi - Yee Fanta Yee Fanta, an up-and-coming producer and artiste, continues to impress with his freestyles, capturing trends within the country. His latest release, ‘Ubuhanuzi,’ is a powerful sound produced with Afrobeat freestyle that has already garnered over 100,000 streams within less than a week. Produced by Yee Fanta himself, ‘Ubuhanuzi’ is quickly becoming a fan favorite. Iyo Mana - Chryso Ndasigwa Renowned gospel artist Chryso Ndasigwa on February 6 blessed his fans with a new praise and worship song titled ‘Iyo Mana.’ Produced by Boris, ‘Iyo Mana’ is rapidly gaining popularity and is now among the most trending gospel songs in Rwanda, surpassing 20,000 clicks across various streaming platforms within just two days. No Lie - Producer X ft. Peace Jolie, Ariel Wayz Producer X, one of the country’s rising stars, teamed up with Peace Jolis and Ariel Wayz for his debut track, ‘No Lie,’ which premiered on February 4. The track is quickly climbing local charts and making waves across the country. Produced by Producer X alongside Bob Pro, No Lie is a solid addition to the growing list of hits in Rwandan music.
