Rwandan musician, Tom Close, has announced the release of his debut international album titled “Essence”. The album, consisting of 13 songs, is a collaboration between Tom Close and other African artists including Wezi from Zambia, Apass from Uganda, Sat-B from Burundi, Riderman, Nel Ngabo, Bull Dog, and B-Trey from Rwanda. The album is a compelling hybrid of culture and sound, blending African and Black American music styles to create an Afro-beats genre. Tom Close celebrates the announcement with the lead single off the record, “A Voice Note” today featuring Bull Dog.
Tom Close’s passion for music began in 2005, and since then, he has made significant strides in the industry. He recorded his first single as a solo artist, “Mbwira,” in November 2007, followed by the release of his debut album, “Kuki,” in May 2008. He has since recorded seven more albums, including “Sibeza,” “Ntibanyurwa,” “Komeza Utsinde,” “Ndakubona,” “Isi,” “Igikomere,” and “So Fine.” “Essence” will be his ninth studio album, and it promises to be an impressive addition to his discography.
The contribution of exceptional artists on the “Essence” album is remarkable. Wezi, Apass, Sat-B, Riderman, Nel Ngabo, Bull Dog, and B-Trey all lent their talents to the album, ensuring that it gets a blend of African and Black American music styles. The album’s sound is a testament to the artists’ dedication to Fela Kuti, who inspired the creation of the Afro-beats genre together with his band Africa 70. The album is an ode to African music greats and their immense contribution to music.
Tom Close extends his appreciation to all producers, musicians, and DJs who contributed to the production of the “Essence” album. Lead producer Knox was responsible for creating the music on the album, while Bob Pro led the mixing, mastering, and finalization of the songs. Producer Clement provided direction, while Producer Kenny, Davide the Saxophonist, Jules, Arsene, Joachim, DJ Bissosso, and Zizou contributed creative ideas that improved some of the songs on the album.
Tom Close’s “Essence” album promises to be a significant milestone in the African music industry, and he hopes it will fly the essence of Rwanda’s music to the world. With the help of distributors and promoters from all over the world, he hopes to share his music with a global audience. Tom Close’s extensive experience in the industry, including featuring with world-renowned stars like Sean Kingston, Eddy Kenzo, Weasel and Radio, Professor Jay, Big Farious, The Ben, Knowless Butera, and Riderman, has set him up for success.
ESSENCE album by Tom Close promises to take African music to new heights, and with the world-class talent featured on the album, it is undoubtedly worth listening to. The Afro-beats genre, dedication to African music greats, and the efforts of the exceptional producers, musicians, and DJs, are sure to delight listeners worldwide.
