Three booted as Primus Guma Guma contest gathers steam

Latest Saturday’s elimination night shattered the dreams of some of the presumed ‘Primus Guma Guma Superstar’ frontrunners; Rafiki, Riderman and Urban Boyz. Tom Close looked appalled when Lion Imanzi, host of the show, read out the first and second hopefuls. But when Imanzi announced that he had secured a spot in the competition, Tom Close seemed not to believe his ears. “I am extremely happy and I thank all my fans for voting me. The victory is ours - lets fight for it!” Close said. Gikondo Expo Ground’s large tent was filled with anxiety, before Imanzi announced the last contender staying in the competition as fans scream out the names of their favourite contestants. It was a tough moment and at one moment, Close was tightly seen crossing his fingers, as Rafiki glued his eyes to the ceiling, as if pleading to God, to perform a miracle. The night which was filled with exciting performances, also was accompanied by some drama. The Urban Boyz protested and refused to perform, while Riderman claimed he was sick. Meanwhile, some people were left despondent with the results. “OMG, I can’t believe this. We’ve seen a lot of incredible performances from Riderman and now we are letting him go. He was by far the most-talented, vocally speaking. I am really disappointed!” Claude Hakizimana. “I am so furious with the results! I loved Urban Boyz and thought the group would win the competition,” Laetitia Umutoniwase. “You know, I agree that he has great talent but, seriously, it all comes down to the public’s choice. Personally, I would prefer Rafiki. But since he is now out, I will support other hopefuls,” Jean Marie Nkusi. During the show, Jay Polly wowed the crowd with his rendition of Ndacyariho. His electrifying performance elicited positive comments from the audience and he certainly stirred up the crowd. King James did not disappoint either; he poured his soul in his Ntamayitamo and Inzozi tracks along with his backup dancers. Tom Close made a pleasant surprise appearance on stage, wearing traditional outfits, and brought the house down with his Ndacyagukunda track. His performance was spiced up by Knowles, who joined him on stage. The other highlights of the night included Bralirwa’s awarding trophies to the three eliminated artistes. Although the Coga star was booted, Rafiki gave an outstanding performance which he dedicated to the East Africa Promoters for supporting him in music. The winner of the competition will bag Rwf6 million, in addition to a one year contract with Bralirwa as a Primus Beer Ambassador. He will also record a song and its video with acclaimed Jamaican-American singer Sean Kingston. Ends

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Three booted as Primus Guma Guma contest gathers steam