As the first gospel rapper in Rwanda, the name Bright Patrick is not new on Rwanda’s gospel music industry. But ever since the singer departed for Toronto, Canada to pursue further studies in global health, fans haven’t heard any fresh music from him. The rapper, who is now working on a comeback in Canada, spoke to Eddie Nsabimana about his plans for music. What kept you busy in Canada? I was in school and right after it took me a while to transition from school to outside life. Also, I was looking for studios to partner with but I was all set in 2019. So, are you back? I officially resumed my music last year after a couple of years off. I released two songs (audio and video) and I am currently in the studio working on a single. I have three songs now including ‘35 Bars’ a freestyle that I released in 2019, ‘L’Inverse’, which I dropped in April 2020. This one is more of a commemoration song dedicated to my dad and grandfather killed during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. My latest song is ‘Kuva’ that I released in December last year. What’s it like doing music abroad? I would say tough, mostly for two reasons: It is expensive and it requires resources, especially when it comes to visuals. Another challenge is the promotion of music, which is even harder when you are away from home and want to market your music locally. Do you think Rwanda’s gospel music fans have forgotten your skill? Not really. That used to be my worst fear all those years I was not doing music. However, people (fans) and the media proved me wrong. Fans would slide in my direct messages on social media to let me know how much my music is missed and if I am contemplating releasing new music—stuff like that—and this is still happening even today. So this is my main motivation, and it’s a confirmation that there are people out there who still appreciate my music and need more of it. But the interesting part is that there is a new generation that needs to listen to my music as well, I have to make sure they are served too. How do you plan to place yourself in the hearts of your music supporters? I will keep releasing good music and going with trends, musically, and promote my music via local media and different social platforms. I believe that when you try to bring the best out of yourself, God also blesses what you do.
