Bruce Melodie: The Munyakazi Who Leads Rwanda’s Music Scene
BY WIIIWALK
march 22, 2025
Bruce Itahiwacu, widely known by his stage name Bruce Melodie, is a Rwandan singer, songwriter, music executive, and actor, born on March 3, 1992. Fondly referred to as Munyakazi, Bruce Melodie has become a household name and is often regarded as the current leader of the Rwandan music industry.
His rise to stardom began after winning Primus Guma Guma Superstar Season 8, a major national music competition that solidified his place in the spotlight. He is also the founder of Igitangaza Music Record Label, a platform nurturing local talent. On top of that, he serves as a brand ambassador for BK Arena and Primus, further cementing his cultural influence beyond just music.
Bruce Melodie began singing at a young age in his church choir, a foundation that shaped his vocal strength and musical passion. He released his debut song “Tubitayeho” in August 2013 under his first album “Ndumiwe.” A year later, he followed it up with his second album “Ntundize,” released under the management of Super Level, which introduced him to a wider audience and expanded his sound.
In February 2021, Bruce signed with Cloud9 Entertainment to manage his music career. However, in 2022, he ended the contract and joined 1:55 AM Entertainment, led by Gael Karomba, also known as Coach Gael — a strategic move that brought new energy to his brand.
Bruce Melodie proudly holds the distinction of being the first Rwandan artist to perform on Coke Studio Africa, an iconic platform that celebrates Africa’s musical diversity. His performances have also taken him to stages beyond Rwanda, including Uganda, Kenya, and other countries across the continent, where he continues to spread his unique sound and elevate Rwandan music on a regional and international scale. Over the years, he has collaborated with an impressive lineup of both local and global artists, including Jamaican legend Shaggy, Tanzanian star Harmonize, Nigerian hitmaker Joeboy, and Ugandan sensations Sheebah Karungi and Fik Fameica. In 2020, Bruce Melodie also took on a mentorship role by nurturing the careers of rising stars Kenny Sol and Juno Kizigenza, who are now prominent figures in Rwanda’s new generation of music talent—
showing that he’s not only a hitmaker but a legacy builder. His musical excellence and versatility have earned him numerous accolades, including Salax Awards for Best R&B Artist in 2014 and 2019, Best Male Artist in 2016, and Best Artist in 2018, along with honors from the Hip Hop Awards in 2017 (yes, even the rap scene gave him props), Kiss Summer Awards in 2019 and 2021, The Choice Awards, and most recently the Trace Awards in 2023. Whether performing, collaborating, mentoring, or collecting awards, Bruce Melodie remains a dominant force in East African music and a proud ambassador of Rwandan talent.
In 2021, Bruce Melodie made headlines by signing a US $1 million deal with Food Bundles, officially entering the billionaire club — in Rwandan Francs, He is also ranked among the Top 20 wealthiest musicians in East Africa, proving that his business acumen is just as sharp as his vocals.
Whether it’s music, fashion, brand deals, or mentoring young talent, Bruce Melodie is a true embodiment of star power with a mix of hustle, humor, and heart. And with the way things are going, the Munyakazi is only just getting started.
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