Mani Martin, born Maniraruta Martin, is a Rwandan singer, songwriter, actor and performing artist. He was described by The RwandaSpectrum Magazine as "one of Rwanda’s strongest live performing acts." His music reflects a blend of Afro-soul and traditional Rwandan music, and features lyrics in Kinyarwanda, Kiswahili, English and French
History
Early years
Martin was born on 24 December 1988 and grew up in his birth village of Ntura, Rwanda.He lost her mother while he was young and grew up in a Charity Home.
Musical career
His talent was discovered at the age of nine, he composed his first song called "Barihe" which means "where are they" as a way to release the endless questions in the mind of Rwanda innocent child three years after the tragic history of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. In 2000, Martin recorded a tape of 12 songs titled "Agapfa kaburiwe ni Impango" which opened a door for him to tour Rwanda performing in various churches as well he released the swahili version called "Urukumbuzi & Kumbukumbu". In 2010 after his high school Martin formed the Kesho Band and started performing on different events. His music reflects the influences of Rwandan artists Cecile Kayirebwa and Jean Paul Samputu, and international celebrity musicians Ismael and R. Kelly.
Discography
Studio albums
Movie
Beyond his musical career, Martin has also explored acting and starred in the film "Long Coat" in 2009 which explored the lives of Rwandans after the Genocide of 1994 and kept collaborating with movie industry by providing music for films and creating sound tracks for different movies.
Awards & Nominations
Concerts
Mani Martin has performed both locally and on international festivals such as.
In February 2013, Martin was badly injured in a motorcycle accident. After hospitalization, the artist went on to make a full recovery and went to perform in souti zabusara festival
Music Style
His songs are characterised by message about peace, love and humanity thus being invited to take part in various peace events such as "Mani Martin Japan Peace Tour" , UNAMID Peace celebration in Darfur being sponsored by UNICEF. Mani Martin envisions the world where people live in love, peace and harmony where all lives are treated with respect and dignityMani Martin has various collaborations with Eddy Kenzo, Sauti Sol
