Rufftone reinvented

Rufftone and the GSU crew during the shooting of the Mungu Baba video at Hell’s Gate, Naivasha. [PHOTOS: PIUS CHERUIYOT/STANDARD]

By CAROLINE NYANGA

Gospel musician and peace ambassador RUFFTONE, 34, is back with bigger and better surprises. CAROLINE NYANGA found out what inspired his current hit, Mungu Baba, and whether rumours of him tying the knot soon are true

A section of critics feel you have been on the low musically?

It can only be because they have not been keenly following my latest developments. Besides, I have been busy setting up my studio, Lampstand Records, which produced the Mungu Baba hit, featuring the General Service Unit (GSU) crew and the popular Confusion track done in collabo with MOG gospel group.

Tell us more about the Mungu Baba song that is the talk of town?

It is a gospel-cum-peace song done in conjunction with a group of 75 GSU policemen and women. It is a prayer and is a hit in both the secular and gospel world.

It is, however, unfortunate that a section of people are still misguided by the notion that a gospel music should only revolve around Jesus and the church, forgetting that God is omnipresent. After all, both the godly and the ungodly require peace.

Whose idea was it?

Mine. I convinced one of the top-ranking police officials who understood the importance of re-branding the police force in a bid to spread peace while, at the same time ,persuading the public through their actions.

For many years, the mention of police officers instilled fear besides eliciting negative response among Kenyans. Many saw police officers as abrasive and bribe-seeking individuals, with the GSU ranking first in being heartless with their Fanya Fujo Uone motto.

What inspired the theme of the song?

The fragile situation in the country before the election period, which was manifested in ethnic fighting and killings in parts of the country like Muhoroni, Mombasa and Tana River. 

The tense mood was a clear indication that the spirit of revenge and bloodshed was waiting for a spark. Mungu Baba was meant to calm the situation and promote co-existence among Kenyans, in particular the youth, who are victims of election violence.  It took us three months to complete the Mungu Baba entire project.

Is it true the video was shot at Hell’s Gate?

Yes. Naivasha’s Hell’s Gate was our first destination. Others are Korogocho Slum and the National Museum. I chose Hell’s Gate because I believe God is in the business of re-branding everything we may consider bad by name or deeds.

How did Kenyans respond to the song?

I bless God for using the song to bring peace in Kenya. The fact that some people were moved to tears as they listened to the song, with others forced to surrender their weapons, is by God’s grace. The presence of the GSU was a strong statement in the video and song.

Any challenges you faced in the process of making the song?

Selling my vision to the police force was not easy, as some did not understand why they should be involved. The logistics were also demanding and costly. Some people didn’t believe it was a gospel song.

Tell us more about your recording label?

Lampstand Records was established in 2004 to usher in untapped gospel talent at fair rates. Located in Buruburu, it allows payments in instalments from our clientele, majority of whom hail from Eastlands. We also offer financing to outstanding talent apart from mentoring them. Our vision is quality gospel grounded to the world, but we do not work with secular artistes.

Speaking of gospel, when did you get saved and why?

I got saved in 1999 when I was about to release my debut secular album. Regardless of the success I attained, besides being known as the rude boy and ladies’ man, I was never content with my life. I lacked inner peace.

What followed next?

I went to a church service at Kenya Assemblies of God upon invitation by a friend. During the service, God gave me a vision of my life, which didn’t look good. He wanted me to change so that He could give me the desires of my heart. I immediately heeded to His calling and my life has never been the same again.

Tell us about your music before salvation?

I had done secular music for six years and specialised in raga-cum-reggae. I recorded with Hills Media Studios in South B, Kanyotu in River Road and Ogopa Deejays, who did my popular Meeh song.

How many albums have you released as a gospel artiste?

My first album was Mwikhulu followed by Jesus Is My Hero. I am currently working on my latest Let My People Go. I have also collaborated with several artistes among them Henrie Mutuku.

What has kept you going as a gospel artiste and what inspires your songs?

It’s God’s favour. As a mirror of the society, preaching the gospel to the lost and drawing them closer to the kingdom of God is my inspiration.

Any awards?

I have been nominated for several awards among them Kora 2003, Groove, American Gospel Awards and Kisima.

What are some of the memorable moments in your music career?

The first was at a Huruma crusade in 2004 where thousands, among them gospel artiste Eko Dydda, gave their lives to Christ after my show. The second was my performance at the recent inauguration of the President Uhuru at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. This is a clear indication that my song went beyond the pre-election period.

It appears that gospel music has, of late, been commercialised and many are in it for money. What’s your take?

It’s unfortunately true, but it is important for us to realise that we will face judgment where the farmer (God) will separate the chuff from the harvest. I, therefore, strive for the best in line with God’s will. 

It is alleged that there was a time when you and your younger brother Daddy Owen never saw eye to eye due to his immense success that saw you live under his shadow. Is it true?

Let’s just say a lie can be told so many times that some people begin to believe it. On the contrary, I love my brother and have been supportive of him. The fact that I x him makes me proud that he is doing well. Besides, we have been there for each other during high and low times.

It is said that you’re planning to settle down soon. Tell us about that…

I like to keep my family separate from my music life. Nevertheless, I agree the public is entitled to know, but at the moment, they need to respect it as a private affair. However, I promise to fill them in on what is happening as days go by.

What are your plans as far as music goes?

I intend to venture into film, acting and movie production. I am also working on establishing a gospel radio-cum-TV station that will take much of my time in terms of music production and live performances. However, let people not mistake this for my resignation, for I do not intend to retire any time soon.