Not many gospel artists offer a traditional touch to their praise and worship songs or headline their traditional concerts. But as he introduced his debut album named Ntahemuka on Sunday at the outer floor of the Kigali Convention Center, fast-rising gospel singer Yvan Ngenzi demonstrated otherwise.
The concert, which attracted a large crowd of Christians from various churches, surprised Ngenzi as his guest, which included distinct age groups, danced with the singer for over an hour.
The singer disclosed originally to be skeptical about organizing the launch with concerns that there would be a small turn-up for the cultural-themed concert. However, the assistance he received from his organizing team enhanced his trust that the concert would continue.
What amazed him most was the way in which concertgoers sang and danced along every song he played ; from Ntibikabe, Uri Umwami, Ibendera ry’Agakiza and Tumuramye to Ntabiriho, Garuka, Atanga Amahoro, and his album cover song, Ntahemuka.
“To be honest, I never imagined that I would get such massive support. I was afraid that my concert would flop and, sometimes I even thought of giving up on it before getting prepared for it. But I had a team that supported me and, finally, we made it,” Ngenzi told journalists after the concert.
The theme of the concert was traditional, from the entire team’s dress code including the ushers, backup band, and the singer himself, to the stage setup and performances.
Many of the songs that make up his nine song album (audio and video) were performed by the singer.
On the other side, among those attending were famous artists Masamba Intore and Jules Sentore, who are considered Rwanda’s cultural music icons, and gospel singer Aime Uwimana.
Although a Zion Temple member, the singer said he never limits himself to writing songs that create a pleasant atmosphere as he sometimes performs famous songs such as Nibuhoraho, Ni Wowe Mugenga and others to maintain the crowd on their feet.
“My music style has no limits, but this time round, God is directing me to do gospel music in a traditional style. I was really surprised by the way Christians reacted to my concert and get entertained at this level. The success of the concert has gone beyond my expectations and I am so excited with the support from my team and the audience in general”
In addition to being a member of the Zion Temple and a former member of Rwanda’s top traditional group Inganzo Ngari, Ngenzi has a singing skill that he inherited from his mom who also created a name for Indahemuka Cultural Troupe as a traditional dancer.
Following the successful concert, Ngenzi now has the heart to prepare more such shows in various worship occasions to further connect culture and gospel.