Rwandan music legend Makanyaga Abdul takes pride in the role he played in shaping Bruce Melodie’s career. The veteran artist, known for his timeless traditional hits, revealed that a simple piece of advice he gave Melodie years ago still guides the superstar today.
Bruce Melodie, now one of
Rwanda’s biggest artists, has often expressed admiration for Makanyaga,
performing his songs and acknowledging his influence. The two musicians have
shared the stage multiple times, including a memorable concert in France.
Makanyaga, who has spent over five decades in music, has built a reputation for
mentoring young talents, and Melodie was one of them.
Speaking to InyaRwanda,
Makanyaga recalled meeting a young Bruce Melodie, then just 15 years old, eager
to learn music. “He approached me after a meeting, greeted me, and said, ‘I
love your music.’ He then asked if he could join my music training sessions,”
Makanyaga shared. “I told him, ‘Whenever you are ready, just come.’”
Though Melodie never
formally trained under him, Makanyaga says his words had a lasting impact. “I
told him that the secret to success in music is simple: love what you do and
stay away from distractions. If you truly love it, you’ll go far,” he said.
Years later, when the two met again in France in 2018, Melodie acknowledged how
that advice shaped his journey.
Makanyaga is thrilled to
see Bruce Melodie thriving and appreciates that he often revisits his songs.
“It’s heartwarming to see a young artist honoring my music. It shows he
respects where he came from,” he said. While Makanyaga hasn’t released new
music recently, he hinted at having several unreleased songs ready to drop
soon.
Bruce Melodie recently
launched his new album, Colorful Generation, and is currently in
Nigeria to promote it. Meanwhile, Makanyaga remains a pillar of Rwandan music,
blending traditional sounds with global influences. Despite his long career,
his passion for music and mentorship remains unwavering.
Makanyaga Abdul taught
Bruce Melodie the power of passion and is proud he listened
He was surprised to
reunite with Bruce Melodie at a concert in France
">CLICK HERE to watch our exclusive interview with Makanyaga Abdul
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