By GFM Editorial - September 1, 2024
Kigali, Rwanda – September 1, 2024 – marks the release of Karambizi’s debut album, “1999 | 9 | 1,” available now on all streaming platforms. This album is a celebration of Karambizi’s journey of self-discovery through music, reflecting his feelings, emotions, and thoughts as a 25-year-old artist in 2024.
“1999 | 9 | 1′ represents my birth date and captures my journey of self-discovery through music,” says Karambizi. “This album is a celebration of where I am now and where I am headed, and I hope it inspires self-awareness among young people and our broader society.”
The album “1999 | 9 | 1” follows Karambizi’s earlier work, including a three-song EP titled “Icyi” in collaboration with Wiz Kool, released on July 12, 2024. In addition, Karambizi has released three solo EPs—Normal Boy, Autumn Summer, and Ejo—marking his first releases under the collaboration with Green Ferry Music Entertainment Company.
A Unique Sound and Style
Sonically, “1999 | 9 | 1” is experimental, blending traditional Kinyarwanda styles with pure Afro-fusion, a style Karambizi refers to as “Kinya-fusion.” The album captures the essence of street life with its loud, vibrant sound inspired by everyday experiences—passing by places and hearing the mix of cars, people, motorbikes, workers, hustlers, and music in the background, creating a soundtrack to daily life.
Creative Process and Collaboration
The ten-song album is a Karambizi-penned and produced effort, showcasing his versatility as a musician and producer. Under his alter ego, Busthespeakers, Karambizi produced the entire album, with additional production by Dr. Nganji, who helped bring the sound vision to life during the mixing and mastering process. Karambizi wrote all the songs except for tracks 6, “Caracara,” and 8, “Jeje,” which he co-wrote with RoMeo Rapstar, who is also featured on those tracks. Other guest appearances on the album include Derek Sano on “Mbwira,” Milly on “Urare,” and Dylan Flex on “Ndisa.”
About Karambizi
Danius Jonathan Karambizi (born September 1, 1999), known as Karambizi and formerly as Dani Kard, is a Rwandan singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer. As a multi-genre artist, he explores various styles, from traditional Rwandan sounds like “Ikinyemera” and “Karahanyuze” to afrobeat, afro-swing, afro-pop, hip-hop, soul, and R&B. “I strive to blend two or more genres to create something fresh and unique,” Karambizi explains. “My inspiration comes from a deep love for music and the desire to express oneself through the arts.”
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