The concert, dubbed 'The New Year Groove & Album Launch', ushered Rwandans into the new year while showcasing The Ben's third album, 'Plenty Love'.
The Ben, ultimately achieved his dream of organizing a concert he had envisioned but couldn't carry out in 2009 with a high attendance from his fans, an occasion marked with emotions and sheds of tears.
The performance was organized in two segments with the first part featuring various artists he had collaborated with on songs, including Bushali, Tom Close, K8 Kavuyo, Otile Brown, Kivumbi King, Kevin Kade, Element Eleéeh, and others.
Green P, The Ben's sibling, joined the stage along with P-Fla and Fireman, his former Tuff Gang groupmates, to perform the song "Kwicuma," honoring Jay Polly, a member of their group who passed away in 2021.
Before The Ben took to the stage in his distinctive outfit, several upcoming artists were given the chance to showcase their talents. These included J-Sha, Phil Emon, Shemi, Yampano, and children from the Sherrie Silver Foundation. Attendees of the concert left mesmerized and satisfied with the music and performances.
It was a memorable experience, highlighted by standout performances and emotional moments. It featured a mix of The Ben's timeless hits and collaborations with various artists. Songs like "Amaso Ku Maso," "Rahira," and "Amahirwe Ya Nyuma" took fans back to the early days of his career.
Special performances by artists like Kivumbi King, Kevin Kade, and Element Eleéeh added excitement, with Kevin's dance moves particularly captivating the audience.
A heartfelt moment came when The Ben broke into tears while thanking his mother and supporters, expressing gratitude for their role in his success. This vulnerability resonated deeply with the audience, showcasing his genuine connection with his fans.
Cultural pride was evident when "Naremeye" was performed alongside the traditional Itorero Inyamibwa dancers, blending Kinyarwanda dance with The Ben's artistry.
The spiritual tone of the concert emerged during "Ndaje," where he reflected on his gratitude for life, hinting at a future focus on faith-inspired music.
Throughout the evening, notable guests like Otile Brown and Tom Close shared the stage, while Tuff Gang members paid tribute to the late Jay Polly with an emotional performance of "Kwicuma." The night also featured crowd favorites like "True Love," performed with a calm and reflective energy.
The Ben's ability to blend nostalgia, culture, and spirituality made the concert unforgettable, solidifying his place as a celebrated icon in Rwandan music.
Towards midnight, The Ben and Tom Close concluded the event with the last song, "Thank You," a collabo between the two. They later sang a short rendition of "Genda Rwanda Uri Nziza" to express their gratitude to the country's leadership.
The night was filled with overwhelming emotion. The Ben, deeply moved by the significance of the moment, couldn't hold back his tears, and the audience shared in his heartfelt moment, witnessing the raw emotions of a dream realized.
Sam K Nkurunziza
