Rwanda’s music industry mourns the loss of once-promising talent, Calvin Kagahe Ngabo, also known as Young CK.
The rapper tragically passed away in Ottawa, Canada, on the night of September 17, and the cause of his untimely death is still under investigation. Despite his rather short time in the spotlight, his name appears to be one that will not be forgotten anytime soon.
Who was Young CK
The 22-year-old was the last born in a family of three. He grew up in Nyamirambo, a surbub in Kigali, where he studied primary at Charles Lwanga and later joined IPRC Kicukiro for high school, which he ended in St Pius in Canada.
He relocated to Ottawa, Canada in 2017, where he continued his studies at Algonquin College.
Young CK was already singing in high school, doing “Freestyles,” or covers for other artistes’ songs. He was known to sing in English, but he later opted to incorporate Kinyarwanda as a way to connect with his vibrant Rwandan fans following at the time.
He only began making his own songs in 2019, with the support of his elder brother Kevin Kagahe, who produced his music videos such as ‘Umugabo,’ ‘Umurava,’ ‘Doubts,’ and others.
Before he decided to focus on music, CK’s early dreams were to be a doctor or a football player.
The young artiste’s lyrics encompassed striking messages. Tracks like ‘Umugabo’ and ‘Umurava’ emphasized the value of hard work, family, and patriotic duties, as well as leaving a legacy for future generations.
In a previous interview with The New Times, he expressed gratitude to Rwandan rappers who came before him. “Thank you for cleaning the Hip Hop playground. However hard it was, you were not afraid to face all the challenges, and now we are doing great because of you,” he said.
Among Young CK’s tracks, ‘Umugabo’ and ‘420’ gained most attention and admiration, earning him a dedicated fan base both locally and in the diaspora.
The music video for ‘Umugabo’ was praised for its creativity, visual excellence, and captivating lyrics. It was a collaboration with his friends and fellow rising artistes, Arnaud Gray and Getts Kent.
Later, the hit song was remixed by notable musicians such as Ish Kevin, Bull Dog, Young Grace, Prime Mazimpaka and Diplomat.
The singer and songwriter also released other singles including ‘Tornado’, ‘Doubts’, ‘We outside’, ‘Ndi Powa’, to mention but a few.
