Rwandan artists The Ben and Bruce Melodie exchanged remarks following their wins at the Isango na Muzika Awards, held at Camp Kigali on the night of December 21, 2025.

At the ceremony, Bruce Melodie won the award for Album of the Year for Colorful Generation, while The Ben received the top prize for Artist of the Year. The outcome sparked discussion after Bruce Melodie, speaking to journalists, suggested that award organizers should also consider recognizing artists with fewer accolades.

In response, The Ben addressed the comments when asked whether he felt targeted by the remarks.

He said that if he were to stop making music immediately, it would take Bruce Melodie several years to match the number of awards he has accumulated during his career. While emphasizing that Bruce Melodie is a talented artist, The Ben noted that his own career predates Bruce Melodie’s rise in the industry and includes achievements earned both before and during his colleague’s career.

The Ben also downplayed the exchange, explaining that Bruce Melodie often speaks in a light or humorous manner and that he did not view the remarks as a serious dispute.

Despite the moment of tension, the two artists are expected to share the stage at an upcoming concert titled The New Year Groove, scheduled to take place at BK Arena on January 1, 2026. The event is anticipated to draw large crowds, with fans eager to see the two musicians perform on the same bill.

Source: IGIHE