Rwandan culture musician Ruti Joel and guitarist Clement will have their joint album ready to premier this year as production works for the project reach the final stage, The New Times has learnt. Titled 'Rutakisha,' the upcoming release marks Ruti Joel's second album, following his debut 'Musomandera', which he dedicated to his mother. While Musomandera was ranked among the best albums of 2023 in Rwanda, the upcoming project promises to finish 2025 with more records in streams if things all go according to plan. ALSO READ: Who are Rwanda’s top Gakondo stars? Speaking to The New Times, the renowned traditional music artiste said that the forthcoming album, is currently 60 per cent complete, and will feature 10 tracks blending modern and traditional sounds, all produced by Clement. Ruti also shared insights into the album's unique title, explaining that 'Rutakisha' is a special nickname he gave to Clement during their old time in the Ibihame cultural troupe. It's an extraordinary nickname, 'Rutakishamihana'. When you listen to the song, you'll understand why I called it that, as it relates to many things you know. And I believe that this is the best song on the project, he said. ALSO READ: PHOTOS: Ruti Joel impresses fans at a sold-out concert About the production of the album, Ruti said, 'Rutakisha' will differ from his previous work by incorporating contemporary elements, including traditional Rwandan sounds, modern rhythms, and themes of romance. “This is not produced in the same way as Musomandera, but it’s still the same traditional music (Gakondo) with the new Ruti who is open to producing different styles of music. This will be a game changer art piece,” he highlighted. Apart from producing the album, Clement is Ruti’s longtime collaborator, who directs and arranges his music production and live performances. The renowned acoustic and electric guitar player rose to stardom through Kesho band formed in 2012 by Mani Martin, one of Rwanda’s strongest live performing acts. On the other side, Ruti Joel is currently one of Rwanda’s best Gakondo singer and songwriter, who has earned a reputation as one of the finest young traditional Rwandan artists making things happen in the local music scene. Some of his notable tracks include ‘Igikobwa,’ ‘Rumata,’ ‘Cunda,’ ‘Ibihame,’ ‘Musomandora,’ ‘Rasana,’ and ‘Ikinimba,’ all of which continue to make waves in the Rwandan music scene.
