Belgium-based Rwandan artiste Lionel Sentore has confirmed he is launching his first album titled “Uwangabiye” in a concert which will take place on July 27 at Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village. Dubbed the “Uwangabiye Album Launch,” the event will feature live performances by fellow Gakondo (traditional music) artiste Ruti Joel, Jules Sentore, and the renowned Ishyaka ry’Intore troupe. ALSO READ: Singer Sentore on pursuing traditional music while living abroad Sentore, the grandson of the late legendary traditional musician Athanase Sentore, told The New Times that this launch will mark a major milestone in his musical journey, as it will be his first solo concert in Rwanda in his career. My album has already been released for some time, but I wanted to perform live for Rwandans who love and appreciate traditional music, Sentore said. I look forward to entertaining lovers of traditional culture with many songs that celebrate our heritage and the rich history of our country. According to the artiste, the album project was largely inspired by his music lovers and the overwhelming reception his track “Uwangabiye” received, particularly during the 2024 presidential election rallies. ALSO READ: Massamba Intore, Ruti Joel off to Brussels for concert Currently residing in Belgium, Sentore credited the successful completion and upcoming launch of the album to the unwavering support of his fans and music enthusiasts. He describes “Uwangabiye” as a new beginning in his career, having spent pretty ample time crafting it. The album, which blends themes of love, cultural pride, and historical reflection, is also his first full-length project. This album carries a lot of messages about love. It also includes songs that tell stories about the past, he said, adding, These are songs I really thought through and worked on for a long time. Because this is my very first album, it feels like being reborn—something that had never happened before. The album's title, “Uwangabiye,” he said, holds special significance for him as it earned him an opportunity to perform in front of President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame. I created that song while I was abroad, inspired by hunger and thoughts of those who made a big impact in my life. That’s why I chose to name the album after it, he explained. Even though the song was released six years ago, it gained massive popularity in 2024. The album features 12 tracks such as Umukobwa w’Abeza, Teta, Uko Bimeze (featuring Mike Kayihura) among many others. Tickets are already available at Rwf10,000 regular, Rwf20, 000 premium, VIP Rwf35,000 and Rwf200,000 for a table.
