This renowned artist, who rose to fame between 2011 and 2014, has transitioned from music to writing and is currently based in Germany. She writes about the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, with her most recent release titled “Shut Up and Hide,” following her earlier book “Barefoot Germany.”
In an exclusive interview with InyaRwanda, Tete Loeper—formerly known as Tete Roca—revealed that her music journey began with her yearning for self-expression and visibility. She received immense support from the late Dr. Jack, who recognized her potential and encouraged her to pursue music when they were collaborating on songwriting for other artists.
She shared, “Because of helping artists write songs, I became friends with them. I tried singing and found it was possible. A producer can guide you to perform well. I felt people around me were the ones pulling me into music.”
After completing her university studies, Tete filmed the music video for her song 'Ndabaza' in Gisenyi, located in Rubavu District. However, after this project, her presence in the music industry began to wane, despite being seen as one of the most promising artists of her time.
Tete candidly described the difficulties she faced in her music career, especially the demanding working hours. She remarked, “Nearly everything in music happens at night—studio sessions, concerts. I found the night schedule exhausting.”
She also faced challenges like traveling long distances. She often journeyed from Huye to Kigali for evening studio sessions with Producer Lick Lick, which required her to return late.
She added, “Music required a significant financial investment, and sometimes you weren’t sure about recovering that money. At one point, I felt drained. This included moments when I wasn’t paid after performing at events.”
Although no longer professionally active in music, Tete admitted she occasionally sings with friends for enjoyment. Reflecting on her song ‘Ndabaza,’ she noted that it was originally written as a religious song but was later altered under Producer Maurix Baru's guidance to fit a secular market.
Tete also recounted her time working with the radio drama series "Urunana." She stopped writing for the show before moving to Germany in 2016, primarily because her contract had ended and several cast members she collaborated with had left the series.
She explained, “Even thinking about renewing the contract seemed unlikely because the sponsors of the Urunana series had started hinting at their departure.”
Currently living in Germany with her husband and children, Tete Loeper has shifted her focus to writing. Her work continues to resonate, and she remains remembered as one of Rwanda's artists who conveyed deep, meaningful messages through their songs.
Tete Loeper shared that she stepped away from music due to numerous challenges she encountered in the industry.
Tete recently released “Shut Up and Hide,” illustrating her harrowing experiences during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH TETE LOEPER.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEO FOR TETE LOEPER'S SONG 'NDABAZA.’