In an exclusive interview with InyaRwanda, Icenova opened up about his journey in music and his deep collaboration with fellow rapper Bushali. The artists first connected as teenagers during secondary school in Gikondo, forming a lifelong bond nurtured through their shared passion for music. Later, their decision to work under the same label led to a remarkable streak of creativity.
"Irizi Waririzi" and Its Record-Breaking Popularity
“This is the song [Irizi Waririzi] that has been watched the most from my collection,” Icenova remarked, reflecting on their collaborative work. “We grew up working within the same label, where there was always an atmosphere encouraging the production of multiple songs. There were days we created five songs together—without even counting additional ones made with others. At times, we managed up to 10 songs a day, and this happened almost daily. It allowed us to develop an incredible synergy during studio sessions."
The Creation of "Irizi Waririzi"
Icenova revealed that the hit song was born during the creation of his album *Ubuvanganzo 3*. “I had already started the song and recorded its chorus before Bushali visited me in the studio where producer KushBeat was working alongside me. I invited him into the studio to catch up, and as soon as he heard the song, he loved it and wrote his part right on the spot.”
Unexpected Yet Incredible Success
The rapper admitted that while he had high hopes for *Irizi Waririzi*, he hadn’t envisioned it becoming such a massive success. Recapping the moment, Icenova shared, “Everyone in the studio agreed the song was great, but I never expected it to reach the level it’s at today."
An Unmatchable Musical Chemistry
Icenova emphasized the connection he shares with Bushali, describing how their shared passion for music leads to impactful collaborations. “When a project we work on together turns out well, it feels like a significant accomplishment. Creating something remarkable together greatly strengthens our partnership,” he remarked.
Music: A Spiritual and Artistic Journey
Icenova likens music to giving birth to a child. “Once the process is complete, its growth and future are left to God’s plan. It’s like a child who must live according to the life that God has laid out for them.”
Icenova’s Background and Rise in Music
Born in Nyamirambo, Kigali, Icenova completed his secondary education while aspiring to follow in the footsteps of legendary rapper Riderman. He went on to study Finance at Kigali Independent University (ULK), earning a bachelor's degree.
His music journey accelerated when he met producer Nganji from Green Ferry label. “Those years were transformative,” Icenova recalled. In three years under the label, he produced two albums, *Ubuvanganzo I* and *Ubuvanganzo II,* solidifying his reputation in the industry.
Success and Future Collaborations
Known for iconic tracks such as *Uri Tayari, Abahungu,* and *Nyagasani,* Icenova has earned recognition both locally and abroad. Alongside the meteoric success of *Irizi Waririzi,* Icenova revealed that exciting projects with Bushali are in the pipeline. “We are planning strategies to bounce back even stronger,” he shared confidently.
Working with Bushali has been pivotal to Icenova’s growth as an artist, given their mutual background and history under the same label.
Bushali and Icenova often spend countless hours in the studio, consistently producing high-quality music.
The rapper reflected on how *Irizi Waririzi* has become his most successful track to date, surpassing his earlier works.
Icenova admitted his confidence in the song, yet he didn’t anticipate the massive fame it garnered after its release.
Bushali penned his verse for *Irizi Waririzi* during one of his visits to Icenova's studio, contributing greatly to its success.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH OUR INTERVIEW WITH ICENOVA, WHERE HE DISCUSSES HIS JOURNEY
CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE SONG *IRIZI WARIRIZI* BY ICENOVA AND BUSHALI