For the first time ever, Rwanda witnessed a rap concert that united the old school with the new, creating a once-in-a-lifetime Hip Hop event that will go down in history! From the pioneers who kickstarted the scene back in the late ’90s to the fresh new talent taking over, this show was nothing short of iconic.
This epic night, dubbed Icyumba cy’Amategeko (The Room of Laws), was inspired by the joint album from Rwandan rap legends Riderman and Bulldogg—two rappers who, once fierce rivals, have since matured into absolute titans of the game. And they decided to throw a party no one would forget!
Held on August 24, 2024, and powered by Skol Lager, the event had fans rushing to get tickets as if they were buying golden keys to Hip Hop heaven. DJ Kalex and Selecta Faba kept the vibes immaculate, dropping fire tracks all night, ensuring the energy never dipped.
Fans didn’t just come to watch—they came dripped out in classic Hip Hop gear: oversized hoodies, chains that would make any rapper jealous, flat caps tilted low, and everything that screamed, “We run this city!” The anticipation was real, and the love for Hip Hop was even more intense.
Some came through with their dates, but let’s be real—the real love affair was with the music. The first to light up the stage was Bruce The 1st, who’s been making waves lately. He hit us with bangers like Up Up, Ku Mihanda (his collab with Juno Kizigenza), and his latest smash Umutima. By the time he was done, the crowd was hyped and ready for more.
Kenny K-Shot didn’t disappoint either, coming in strong with tracks like Intare and King Kong, where he teamed up with heavyweights like Kivumbi, Ish Kevin, and Pro Zed. Kenny didn’t hold back when he gave mad props to Riderman and Bulldogg, saying, “Yo, big up to the OGs who paved the way for Hip Hop in Rwanda! We owe it all to them!”
Kivumbi switched it up with his smooth mix of rap and melody, sending the ladies in the crowd into a frenzy with tracks like Yalampaye and Wait. But then, B Threy took it to another level, slaying with Ni He? and Sindaza, and when Bushali stepped on stage—man, it was a straight-up firestorm! His hits Kurura, Kinyatrap, and Tsikizo had the crowd going absolutely nuts, especially when he dropped Ni Muebue. People lost their minds!
Ish Kevin came through after, dropping some of his signature heat like No Cap and Abahungu. But the night didn’t fully catch that same magic as his 2021 peak—still, his set was solid.
Finally, the moment everyone was waiting for arrived. Bulldogg and Riderman stormed the stage at around 10 PM, kicking off with Hip Hop and Mu Banigga. The nostalgia was real, and when Riderman handed the mic to Bulldogg, it was pure vibes. Riderman paid homage to old-school rap kings like Neg-G, Tuff Gangz, and more, showing nothing but respect to the ones who paved the way.
And then, when B-Threy joined them for their track Mood—bro, the place exploded!
Tuff Gangz made a crazy comeback, with Green P, P-Fla, and Fireman repping hard on stage. P-Fla blessed us with Umusaza P-Fla and Zahabu, while Fireman came in hot with Umuhungu wa Muzika and Muzadukumbura. The energy was off the charts!
But the real heart of the night came with a touching tribute to the late Jay Polly. Tuff Gangz brought his spirit back to the stage with performances of Kwicuma and Amaganya, as his image lit up the screen. The crowd paid their respects to a legend who will never be forgotten.
Riderman came back strong, hitting us with classics like Umwana w’imuhanda, Padre, and Polo, before closing the night with Bulldogg, performing their joint bangers Miseke Igoramye and Nkubona Fo. Their gratitude was palpable as they thanked the crowd, promising that their fans would never be let down.
This wasn’t just a concert—it was a love letter to Rwandan Hip Hop, a celebration of its roots and its future. The energy, the passion, the unity—this night had it all. And one thing’s for sure: Hip Hop isn’t going anywhere. It’s only getting stronger.
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