Shaffy shared with InyaRwanda that creating the song “Ihame” required immense patience and dedication. He stated, “Collaborating with Kivumbi was something we aspired to do for two years, but our schedules didn’t align. Finally, we made it happen last month in Kivumbi’s studio before heading to Gisenyi for the video shoot.”
While they had long planned the project, Shaffy emphasized that their primary objective was to create a masterpiece with the potential to reach international markets while maintaining originality.
Shaffy added, “Our main goal was to craft a sound appealing to global audiences. We also aimed to introduce Rwandans to a style they are not accustomed to.”
The production of “Ihame” brought together extraordinary talent; Kenny Vybz handled the audio, while the video was filmed and edited by Eazy Cuts. The songwriting was a collaborative effort involving Shaffy, Kivumbi King, and Kenny Vybz.
After completing the audio at the studio, the artists traveled to Gisenyi, situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Kivu, to shoot the video. These captivating visuals showcase serenity, tourism opportunities, and Rwanda’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Shaffy highlighted that “Ihame” was not just a song created for entertainment purposes but a strategic effort designed to help Rwandan artists access global audiences. It's also a move to introduce local music fans to innovative sounds and styles rarely seen in Rwanda’s music scene.
This track is part of an ambitious project spearheaded by Shaffy and Kivumbi King to elevate the standards of their music. They firmly believe that “Ihame” will significantly contribute to widening their reach and impact.
Collaborations between artists are often transformative, offering growth opportunities in the music industry. Such partnerships become vital, especially when one artist seeks to expand their audience or enhance their brand.
Boosting fan bases: Online reports suggest that collaborations often result in shared fan bases. Fans listen to the track to support the artist they love, inadvertently discovering the collaborator, which helps both artists grow their following.
Enhancing visibility: When a well-known artist collaborates with a rising star, it elevates the latter's profile as discussions, social media promotions, and music events feature their name.
Creative enrichment: Partnering in music enables artists to combine their creative strengths—be it blending diverse styles, lyrics, or vocal techniques—to produce a richer, authentic sound.
Accessing new markets: If one artist is popular locally and the other has recognition abroad, joining forces helps tap into untapped audiences internationally.
Generating media interest: Collaborative songs often receive greater attention from media outlets, music platforms, and fans due to the intrigue of blending two distinct musical identities.
Learning opportunities: Artists get to learn from one another—honing songwriting skills, mastering public relations, understanding promotional strategies, and navigating the nuances of the music industry.
Music collaborations like “Ihame” by Shaffy and Kivumbi King utilize each artist's uniqueness to create something extraordinary. These partnerships not only elevate their artistry but also connect them with a broader audience.
Shaffy disclosed that he had spent two years trying to align schedules with Kivumbi King to work on a joint song, which finally came to fruition.
He elaborated that the audio was recorded in the studio while the captivating visuals were shot in Rubavu.
Shaffy stayed in Rwanda briefly before heading back to the United States.
