Artists To Watch: Mucyo
Rwandese singer/songwriter & poet Mucyo’s brand of R&B is hazy and alluring. Fusing elements of neo-soul, hip-hop and jazz, her music explores love, freedom, consciousness hardship and hope over predominantly stripped down, acoustic tracks. Her choice in production set the perfect stage for her soothing, honey-like vocals and enchanting lyrics.
With three EP’s under her belt as well as an array of singles, Mucyo joins the class of East Africa’s rising R&B crooners and is definitely one to watch.
We caught up with Mucyo over email to learn about her creative journey thus far.
Who is Mucyo?
Just a light worker at work :)
Where are you from? Can you speak briefly about your upbringing and the moments that spurred your interests in poetry and music?
I’m from Rwanda, born in Namibia but grew up all over. Heavily influenced by performing culture at school & just fell in love with creating using various medium mostly writing.
What came first, poetry or music? What led you to segue from one into the other?
I think they go hand in hand. To me, my lyrics always start off as poetry & I just end up finding a melody for it. But in terms of publishing my poetry, that definitely comes after what I was working on with the music.
Who/what have been your main influences?
Erykah Badu & India Arie but also my parents - Dad’s writing always inspired.
What is your creative process?
It varies to be honest. Sometimes I write & then catch a vibe with my producer, sometimes I jump in the studio & work from scratch. Really the aim is to find a pocket of gold & run with it.
Your website mentions that your move to London catalysed your music career. What has been your experience navigating the creative industry in London vs. Kigali? How do you feel about the state of Rwanda’s music industry?
It’s growing & evolving. I’m very excited to see new acts popping up. In all honesty, I was in the beginning stages of my career when I was in London so it mainly consisted of me & friends recording ourselves in our make-shift bedroom studios. I’ve been exposed to much more in the last few years & I’d comfortably say the motherland has a lot of potential. I’m glad I got the best of both worlds in a sense because my network is fairly wide & I get to work with amazingly talented people all round.
What artists would you love to collaborate with and why?
I’d love to collaborate with Mysie. I think her energy is so refreshing. I think we could experiment & find an interesting sound.
Your creative works explore sensuality, empowerment and other such theme’s that broaden the notion of what Rwandan womanhood is. Have you faced any external backlash or internal conflict on expressing these ideas given how conservative opinions on African womanhood are?
Never. My truth is just that - mine. I never hesitate to share what’s really on my mind/ how I feel in my soul; even if I have to shed light in the dark areas. As long as I’m doing that I’m content. I also believe everyone has a choice in deciding what they consume. So if you listen, and it resonates - amazing; if it doesn’t that’s fine too.
Tell us more about your last release, ‘The Waters’.
Here I definitely opened up about my battle with finding peace. It’s sort of an ode to all the homies trying to navigate their way through adulthood. Trying to stay afloat. It’s also a giver of hope to some degree - one of the biggest takeaways though is my level of gratitude for it all. The hardships & the good times - that duality is what makes life. I hope that message comes through.
Who are you currently listening to?
Re-listening to Mereba. Also, anyone on the colors channel. Oh & Lianne La Havas
When you’re not making music, what are you up to?
Mainly working on projects (personal & with friends). Conducting songwriting workshops at schools when I get the chance & acquiring knowledge to pass down when the time comes.
What’s next for Mucyo?
I’d love to tour eventually when everything in the ethers calms down. In the meantime, I’m taking courses & just upping my skill set. Staying active & getting closer to the community. This legacy stuff is no joke & I hope what I leave behind is of real value. Blessings.
