Renowned Rwandan traditional artist, Ruti Joël, took to the stage alongside Rwandan and other international artists in Atlanta, USA, at a concert aimed at fostering unity and celebrating diverse talents in the country.
The event, held on Saturday, March 23, 2024, showcased Ruti Joël's popular songs, including those from his latest album 'Musomandera,' released in March 2024, which has gained significant popularity due to its unique fusion of traditional sounds with contemporary music elements.
The concert took place at the Atrium, a renowned entertainment venue in Atlanta, featuring top artists from the United States and beyond. Notable performers included Koffi Olomide from the Democratic Republic of Congo, who performed on November 11, 2022, and Shawn Corey Carter [Jay-Z], a rapper and entrepreneur who has been in the industry since 1998.
The event was livestreamed on YouTube, allowing fans worldwide to join in the celebration. This virtual setup was made possible through the integration of advanced technology, enabling seamless streaming and interaction with the audience.
With over 30 years of experience, the concert aimed to showcase various aspects of Rwandan culture, including traditional music, dance performances, film screenings, and exhibitions of Rwandan attire and artifacts. Attendees could also enjoy a range of amenities, including restaurants, parking facilities, and more.
Ruti Joël, a prominent figure in Rwandan music, expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support from Rwandans and other attendees in Atlanta, stating, "It's heartwarming to see Rwandans and others in Atlanta rallying behind me for the second time I've performed here."
One concertgoer expressed their anticipation for the event, stating, "We're excited to connect with Ruti's music and the beauty of Rwandan culture." They added, "It's always refreshing to see people taking flights or driving long hours to attend Ruti Joël's concert."
This marks Ruti Joël's first major performance in the United States after spending over four years in the music industry. He recently performed in at the Rwanda Day celebrations in Washington, D.C. on March 2-3, 2024, and is set to perform in Portland, Maine, on March 30, 2024, targeting Rwandan diaspora communities in the East Coast region of the United States.
Ruti Joël's musical journey began under the mentorship of Massamba Intore and Jules Sentore, both prominent figures in Rwandan traditional music. He is also a member of the Gakondo Group and the Ibihame Cultural Troupe, where he honed his skills in traditional dance and cultural performances.
His collaboration with Jules Sentore and King Bayo in the song 'Diarabi' has garnered widespread acclaim, with fans praising his powerful vocals and musical talent.
In February 2019, Ruti released the song 'La vie est belle,' paying tribute to the late Congolese music icon Papa Wemba. The song, sung in French and Swahili, resonated with audiences across the globe.
Ruti Joël credits his experience with the Gakondo Group for shaping his musical identity and nurturing her passion for preserving Rwandan culture through music and performance. His journey in music has been supported by Masamba Intore, who has produced several of his albums and collaborated with him on various musical projects.
Ruti Joel wows audience in Atlanta
This marks Ruti Joel's first concert in America following Rwanda Day
Rwandans and fans show overwhelming support for Ruti Joel
He is set to perform in Portland on March 30, 2024