Through the stories of artists like Marina, Tete Loaper, and others who achieved fame in past years, there’s evidence of deep-rooted issues causing women to step away from music in Rwanda. These challenges include poor studio practices, misconceptions held by parents, limited financial resources, and unequal support compared to their male counterparts.
Despite these struggles, fans continue to honor the voices, songwriting, and unique artistry of these female musicians. Marina recently shared with InyaRwanda that the voice of Queen Cha needs to reach music lovers once again.
InyaRwanda compiled a list of five female artists who have not released new songs in over three years, despite remaining fan favorites.
Recurring group breakups and conflicting individual goals have often led to serious divisions, breaking teams apart. Additionally, several female artists have tried to revive their careers but have faced relentless obstacles.
Some openly share that the financial challenges within Rwanda’s music industry contribute to their decision to halt musical releases.
Over the last 31 years, women’s music in Rwanda has progressed to a point where groups were formed that could rival their male counterparts. However, these groups eventually faded, like flames that flicker out.
1. Asinah
Popular for her Dancehall tracks, musician Asinah last released a song called “Turn Up,” in collaboration with rapper Gatsinzi Emery, better known as Riderman. The song was recognized as an emblem of their friendship, even though fans had hoped their romantic journey would continue.
Currently, the song boasts over 16,000 views. Asinah utilizes music to rebuild herself at various points in her life.
Her name has recently surfaced in headlines due to accusations involving a wealthy man who allegedly assaulted her in a car, leading her to report the incident to Rwanda’s Investigation Bureau (RIB).
“Turn Up” was produced by Holybeat, while its video was directed by Julien Bmjizzo.
2. Charly & Nina
This musical duo has been in the United States since September 26, 2022. They originally stated their attendance at an East African investors’ meeting in Texas, but no news of their return has been reported.
Prior to their departure, they released their final song “Lavender” on February 21, 2022, which has gained over 511,000 views on YouTube.
Charly & Nina were known for electrifying crowds through their music and performances, both in Rwanda and abroad.
Their striking beauty and undeniable talent made their entry into the music scene remarkably swift and successful. However, their split with long-time manager Alex Muyoboke significantly slowed their progress.
3. Queen Cha
Queen Cha is hailed for her unique and powerful voice, captivating audiences for years. Her last song, “Ntawe Nkura,” was released on October 10, 2018, and has accrued over 143,000 views.
This track was produced during her collaboration with the renowned The Mane music group. Although Queen Cha hasn’t released new music since then, she recently expressed her desire to return to the industry. However, rumors suggest she may now be focusing on business ventures.
One of her classic hits, “Icyaha ndacyemera,” made waves after its 2013 release.
4. Allioni
Known as Allioni Buzindu, this artist is recognized for her elegant performances and significant investments in music. Insiders reveal that trust issues with industry collaborators led her to withdraw from the music spotlight.
Her last offering to fans, “Tuku Tuku,” dropped on July 18, 2019, and has since gathered over 148,000 views.
Produced by Made Beat in Rwanda, its visual representation was directed by Sasha Vybz, one of Uganda’s top producers who has worked with global stars like Diamond Platnumz and Bruce Melodie.
5. Scillah
Priscillah Umuratwa, known widely as Scillah, was a prominent figure in Rwanda’s music scene for over 15 years, participating in collaborations with rappers and other artists.
Now based in Houston, Texas, USA, Scillah’s YouTube channel shows her last song “Overdose” was released on June 17, 2021.
The track, co-written with Kenny Sol, and produced at Giggz Studio, remains her most recent musical contribution. Since then, however, Scillah has remained inactive in the music industry.
These talented artists share impactful legacies within the Rwandan music scene. Their stories highlight the desperation created by unresolved challenges, leaving fans yearning for their comeback.
Solid and sustained support for female musicians has never been more urgent—whether through sponsorship programs, exclusive markets, competitions, or even gender-specific policies aimed at empowering women in music.
Globally, numerous female musicians once celebrated have receded from music due to personal, financial, or societal struggles, mirroring the challenges faced by Rwanda’s own female musicians.
It’s been six years since Queen Cha’s last release, “Ntawe Nkura.”
Click here to watch Scillah’s latest song “Overdose”: