Every festive season in Rwanda comes with a familiar soundtrack — timeless songs that resurface year after year. Though not new, their impact remains powerful, echoing through family gatherings, holiday road trips, nightclubs, neighbourhood celebrations, and radio playlists across the country. Rooted in nostalgia and tradition, these classics capture the warmth, joy, gratitude, and togetherness that define the end-of-year festivities. From Christmas to New Year’s Eve, they remain essential to Rwanda’s festive identity. The New Times curates some of the Rwandan songs that unfailingly set the festive mood, no matter how many years go by. Bonane – Orchestre Impala For more than two decades, Orchestre Impala has remained one of Rwanda’s most celebrated music bands, creating songs that transcend generations. Among their timeless hits, “Bonane” stands out as an undisputed festive anthem. As New Year’s Eve approaches, the song fills dance floors, homes, and streets, prompting spontaneous dancing and collective celebration as Rwandans usher in a new year with joy and nostalgia. Bonane – DJ Pius ft Alyn Sano & Bushali There is something about the festive season that brings love, reflection, and celebration together. DJ Pius, alongside Alyn Sano and Bushali, delivered a modern New Year anthem that has quickly become a seasonal staple. Infused with Amapiano rhythms, the song celebrates survival, gratitude, and hope after 365 days of challenges. Its upbeat vibe makes listeners reflect on the year gone by while joyfully welcoming the one ahead. Umwaka – Madebeats ft Mistaek, Mike Kayihura & Okkama On his Made in Kigali album, producer Madebeats gifted fans a bonus track tailor-made for year-end celebrations. “Umwaka” blends smooth production with diverse vocal styles, creating a feel-good anthem that resonates deeply during the festive period. Released on Christmas Day, the song has steadily grown in popularity and is fast becoming a New Year’s Eve favourite across Rwanda. Bonane – Makonikoshwa This version of “Bonane” is more than entertainment — it has evolved into a seasonal ritual. One of Makonikoshwa’s most successful songs, it captures the joy, gratitude, and optimism associated with closing one chapter and opening another. It is a regular feature at Christmas gatherings and New Year celebrations, reminding listeners of the beauty of fresh beginnings. Gloria – Alain Muku Over the years, “Gloria” by late Alain Mukuralinda has become a timeless festive soundtrack. Played in homes, churches, on radio, and at end-of-year events, the song resurfaces every Christmas season due to its emotional depth and spiritual significance. Inspired by the Christian hymn “Gloria in excelsis Deo” (“Glory to God in the highest”), the song beautifully blends worship with celebration, making it a cornerstone of Rwanda’s Christmas soundtrack. Noheli – Chorale de Kigali A true classic, “Noheli” by Chorale de Kigali is deeply rooted in the spiritual and cultural essence of Christmas in Rwanda. This Catholic hymn celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and carries a powerful choral quality that resonates strongly in churches, family settings, and festive broadcasts. Its enduring presence highlights the spiritual heart of the festive season.
