Esso Zibi Andréa Laurène came to Rwanda two years ago to pursue a master’s degree. Last year, she decided to embark on music, with the hope that she would make a career out of it. The New Times’ Sharon Kantengwa caught up with the 25-year-old on her plans for music. Tell us about yourself… I am a young Gabonese artiste. I grew up in Nzeng-Ayong District, in Libreville and I have a Bachelor’s degree in Environment from Academie Franco-Americaine de Management (AFRAM), in Libreville. I came to Rwanda in September 2018, to continue my studies. I am currently doing a Master’s degree in Project Management at the University of Kigali. However, in August 2019, I decided to embark on a music career from here. What inspired you to venture into music? I’ve always been attracted to music of all genres, Soul, Hip-hop, R&B and Jazz, among many. When I was younger, I used to look up to some of the great artistes such as Beyoncé, Aretha Franklin and Mariah Carey and used to admire their exceptional talents and incredible stage performances that won the world over. So I realised that I wanted to do the same thing, entertaining people through my music. How many songs do you have and what are they about? What is your genre of music? I currently have five songs to my name. The three are about spirituality and consciousness, while the other two are about partying. I do rap and R&B music. How do you balance studies and music? I’ve always been a good student. However, I am truly passionate about music, so I always find the time to write some beautiful songs as soon as I get inspired, then I head to the studio to record. What is the target audience for your music? My target audience is the youth. People who love good hip-hop, American sounds and old-school R&B. I mostly sing in English with a little bit of French. So if you want to get all the messages hidden behind my songs, you have to understand English (and French). When did you discover your talent in music? I’ve always wanted to make music, since I was seven, but I wasn’t confident enough growing up to take the plunge, until last year.
