About two weeks ago, East African music got an upgrade; with Rwandan stars Kivumbi King and Mike Kayihura teaming up to drop their Afro-pop centric perfect EP “Installation”.
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This project follows fans’ long anticipated return of Mike Kayihura, whose soulful vocals and signature Afro-pop sound have consistently set him apart in the East African music scene. After him being in an indefinite hiatus of over two years due to a restrictive label contract, Kayihura made his return officially with a highly anticipated joint EP, Installation, with Kivumbi King at the start of August on 1st.
The five-track project demonstrates a seamless blend of Afrobeat, soul, and Afro-pop while showcasing Mike and Kivumbi’s versatility, creativity range and collaborative chemistry. Among the songs on the 15-minute EP is: “Maria”, “Mama”, “Closer”, “Kill Them with Love” and “Somebody Else”.
Numerous fans on X (formerly known as X) have given the two singers their flowers for their creative range. For me, “Kill Them with Love” and “Somebody Else” stand out and have been on replay since the EP’s release for they carry with them a compelling sound, backed by lyrical depth and production finesse.
Kivumbi King and Mike Kayihura are no strangers to collaboration. Their previous work on tracks “Sabrina” and “Selfish” are a testament to what happens when two talented and equally “hungry” superstars hit the studio booth. The cohesive body of work that is “Installation” is what happens. It is now expanding on that synergy, for it resonates with both long-time fans of both artists and attracting new listeners, basing on the praise netizens (internet users) are heaping on it, and how it is performing on streaming sites in terms of number of streams.
The EP’s release marks a pivotal moment for Mike Kayihura, reaffirming his position as one of Rwanda’s leading contemporary artists. Following teasing social media exchanges, Kivumbi King’s post, “Should we tell them?” and Kayihura’s succinct, “Install it family. Indeed,” fans were given a clear signal that a major project was imminent. The wait has delivered.
In addition to demonstrating Kayihura’s return to form, the EP also indicates the East African music industry’s continued evolution by blending genres, emphasizing high-quality production, and featuring thoughtful collaborations; kinda like what Bien and Aaron did on “Bald Men Love Better” the EP back then in November 2021.
On Kivumbi King; his sound is a bold statement in its own right. Known for his deep, resonant voice and innovative approach to songwriting, he effortlessly blends traditional East African musical motifs with modern production and global influences. His use of Luganda lyrics on “Somebody Else” indicates cultural exploration, for he has been to Uganda a several times as a performing artist and collaborator (working on songs like “Captain” with A Pass and “Wait” alongside Axon).
This not only adds both texture to his catalogue but also culturally places him a foot ahead musically as he continues to push boundaries. Over the years, Kivumbi King has consistently asserted himself as a forward-thinking artist, unafraid to experiment with melody, rhythm, and storytelling, making his contributions to Installation as vital as they are dynamic.
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“Installation” successfully balances the elements of accessibility and artistry, offering both radio-ready singles and deeper cuts for devoted listeners, like myself and fans of extraordinary music from the East African region.
For anyone tracking the current pulse of music in East Africa, “Installation: is an essential listening. Mike Kayihura and Kivumbi King did not only meet the anticipation but arguably set a new standard for collaborative projects in the region, making this EP a defining moment and the EP of the summer. Listen to “Installation” out now on all music streaming and downloading sites, here.