“Intashyo,” EP holds a poetic message that singer and songwriter Chartine Imfurikeye wanted to pass to lovebirds to share as a way to express romance and a connection that goes beyond the physical. You need to listen to the EP often and often not just enjoy the melodies but to also understand well the message it conveys. “It’s an EP that is poetic and deeply has a hidden message especially to the lovers however it requires you to have a second listen. It's a storyteller mostly in the song ‘Intashyo’. It has an emotional melody,” explained Imfurikeye, whose artistic inspiration is rooted in Gakondo style, pop, and Afro fusion. Intashyo EP comprises four songs namely‘Intashyo’ ft. Fox Makare, ‘Malayika’, ‘Hose’ ft. Bill Ruzima and Mike Kayihura, and ‘Inshuti Yange’ ft. Bill Ruzima. Imfurikeye said that the four songs on the EP blend Afro-pop, Afro-fusion, Pop, and traditional Rwandan music. Each track is rooted in deep emotion and femininity, providing an earthy sound that makes the EP perfect for festivals and live performances as well. She described the artistes who contributed to the EP as “extraordinary talents who consistently deliver outstanding work,” adding that collaborating with them felt smooth and effortless, as their styles perfectly matched the spirit of the EP. “This EP has helped me discover more hidden abilities within myself, some of which I was previously skeptical about. Producer Muriro has truly helped me turn to another amazing chapter of my artistic journey, to the point where I now believe in my uniqueness. I’m growing,” she said. ALSO READ: Why ‘Gakondo’ might be the future of Rwandan music Born and raised in Kayonza District in a family deeply rooted in music, the 23-year-old drew inspiration from her family members who often fill their home with songs that spoke of hope and resilience, touching the hearts of those who listened. As she watched her family members pour their hearts into their craft, she knew that music was her calling too. Her path to the limelight began in 2018 at Nyundo School of Arts and Music, where she honed her musical skills and nurtured her passion for singing. She has so far released songs such as ‘Mureke Abeho’ and ‘Riding High’. The EP is currently available at her music streaming platforms including Spotify.
