It was the first time a lineup of only traditional and cultural musicians was picked to lead the New Year celebrations’ concert since the annual East African Party started in 2008. Fast-rising culture music artiste Ibrahim Cyusa shared the stage with legendary musicians Cecile Kayirebwa, Masamba Intore and Abdul Makanyaga. Hosted by RTV presenter Basile Uwimana, the quartet’s performances were held at Kigali Arena and the audience was able to follow the concert live on Rwanda Television since large gatherings are still banned to avoid the spread of Covid-19. Backed by his band and cultural troupe, Cyusa who was the first on stage proved that he is one of Rwanda’s cultural music flag bearers by putting up an entertaining performance before he paved the way for legendary musician Kayirebwa. For many, it felt like the show was just beginning when Kayirebwa showed up alongside Ange and Pamela, two young women who are already known for performing at different cultural events. Seated between the duo, the 74-year-old singer showed what a treasure she is to Rwanda when she performed some of her popular songs like ‘Impundu z’ Urwunge’, ‘Urubambyingwe’ and ‘Umunezero’ among others. She may be growing old, but her voice and the way she engages her audience while performing remain her top specialty. Her vocal combination with Ange and Pamela were worth listening to …again and again. A more energetic Masamba was on standby, who, together with his traditional troupe put up a thrilling performance. From ‘Nyundo’ and Dushengurukanye Isheja to Nzovu, and ‘Kanjogera’, Masamba made a noticeable and worthwhile show that many, through social media, appreciated. Makanyaga’s performance was a testament that the show was a special edition that no one would have afforded to miss had concerts been open for people to attend. Through some of his songs like ‘Suzana’, Mporeza Umutima’, ‘Rubanda’, ‘Iryo Mbonye’ and ‘Nshatse Inshuti’ among others, the music icon, and his band took the audience, especially adults, back to their days when ‘Karahanyuze’ was everyone’s favorite. His performance surely took so many by storm, after they had gone about a year without witnessing similar performances which are commonly held in hotels and bars. Though the concert was all about the celebrations, the musicians took advantage of their time on stage and reminded their audience, especially youth, to take Covid-19 serious and avoid violating all preventive guidelines to avoid the spread of the pandemic which, in recent days, saw cases of infection on the rise again. The show ended a few minutes past 11.30 pm. Abdul Makanyaga. Cecile Kayirebwa. Ibrahim Cyusa. Massamba Intore.
