Rwandan artist Itahiwacu Bruce, popularly known as Bruce Melodie, has revealed that he is open to collaborating on a song with fellow singer Mugisha Benjamin, better known as The Ben. He added that the two could even share the same stage at a major concert planned for Amahoro Stadium, provided both sides reach an agreement.
Although both artists have been in the music industry for many years, they have never released a song together. Previous attempts at collaboration—about three in total—fell apart at the early stages, even leading to open disagreements reported in the media in early 2024. At that time, Bruce Melodie declared he would no longer comment about The Ben.
However, in 2025, Bruce Melodie attended The Ben’s concert held at BK Arena on January 1. Although no photos or videos surfaced showing them greeting each other, the two have since crossed paths at other cultural events while remaining focused on their separate duties.
Speculation has been growing in the media that an upcoming concert may finally bring the pair together at Amahoro Stadium.
During a live TikTok session with fans on Friday, August 22, 2025, Bruce Melodie confirmed that talks had taken place between his management team and The Ben’s camp, though he himself had not followed the matter closely.
“These are things I cannot reject,” he said. “At the end of the day, we are both children of Rwanda. We are fortunate to have the infrastructure and equipment we do, so why not use them? I don’t belong to those who think it is inappropriate, and if anyone thinks that way, they are mistaken.”
The singer also pointed out that challenges in organizing concerts are common worldwide and should not be blamed on artists, as those responsibilities lie elsewhere. He added that he is willing to engage with his management team to align on plans for the event.
“It’s definitely possible,” he continued. “But imagine seeing Amahoro Stadium packed because of Rwandan artists—there’s nothing more beautiful than that.”
Bruce Melodie emphasized that even when he performs abroad, the majority of his supporters are Rwandans, which is why he feels obliged to deliver whenever they ask something of him.
“I know this is possible and not difficult,” he explained. “But it has to start with us connecting as people before anything else. Even when I perform outside Rwanda, my strongest supporters are Rwandans. So there’s nothing they ask of me that I would refuse if it’s within my ability.”
He also suggested that working on a joint song with The Ben could play a major role in boosting their anticipated concert at Amahoro Stadium. “That would make things easier and more exciting for fans. People sometimes exaggerate and create unnecessary tension, but there is no bad blood. We all found this industry here, and one day we will leave it to others. So, really, there’s nothing beyond that.”
For now, the final decision rests with both artists’ management teams, but Bruce Melodie’s statements reflect a strong sense of optimism that this long-awaited collaboration may finally happen.
Author: Justinmind HARERIMANA
