Nduwimana Jean Paul, commonly known as Noopja (/ŋpjɑː/; born (1983-08-07) August 7, 1983 (age 41) in Nyarugenge, Rwanda, to Daniel Baranzira and Therese Mukamazimpaka, is a Rwandan recording artist,[1] entrepreneur, writer and founder of record label called Country Records. Noopja is the founder of East African leading recording studio 'Country Records',[2] the founder of Rwandan radio station 105.7 FM Country FM and director of 'Necessary Generation', a local non-governmental organization that helps vulnerable youth from different corners of Rwanda.[3]

Early life and career

edit

Nduwimana Jean Paul, born on August 7, 1983, in the Gitambi sector of Nyarugenge District, located in the Kigali City capital of Rwanda.[2] He is the third-born child in a family of seven, son to Mukamazimpaka Therese and Baranzira Daniel.[4] His siblings include KOZZE, a notable Rwandan music producer.[5] Noopja's passion for music was ignited by his mother, who served as a church drummer and was known for her devotion to praying and singing each morning at home.[4] This early exposure to music and rhythm laid the foundation for his future career in the music industry.Facing challenges with the recording studios he initially worked with, He decided to establish his own recording studio, Country Records.[6] His goal was to create a supportive and respectful environment for artists, ensuring they received the recognition and assistance they deserved.[7][8][9]

In addition to founding Country Records, Noopja launched Country FM.[10] His vision for the radio station was to provide a platform that focuses on the youth, promotes their talents, and offers them opportunities to showcase their abilities.[11] Through these initiatives, he has made significant contributions to the Rwandan music scene and continues to inspire and support young artists in his community.[12][13][14]

References

edit
  1. ^ Gatera, Emmanuel (2024-03-06). "Noopja's Country Records and how they are revolutionising Rwanda's music scene". The New Times. Retrieved 2024-06-21.
  2. ^ a b Gatera, Emmanuel (2023-02-27). "Country Records is coming big and bigger – Noopja". The New Times. Retrieved 2024-06-21.
  3. ^ Gatera, Emmanuel (2024-06-21). "Rwandan artistes rock Africa Music Academy Awards". The New Times. Retrieved 2024-06-21.
  4. ^ a b "Home - Noopja". Retrieved 2024-06-22.
  5. ^ Gatera, Emmanuel (2022-01-10). "Country Records unveils new producer". The New Times. Retrieved 2024-06-21.
  6. ^ Gatera, Emmanuel (2023-03-13). "Country Records signs new producers". The New Times. Retrieved 2024-06-21.
  7. ^ Gatera, Emmanuel (2023-03-21). "Who are the new producers signed under Country Records?". The New Times. Retrieved 2024-06-21.
  8. ^ "African Music Academy Awards unveil overall winners". Music In Africa. 2024-06-21. Retrieved 2024-06-22.
  9. ^ "Why Rwanda getting on Spotify is such a big deal". The New Times | Rwanda. February 23, 2021. Retrieved 2022-04-17.
  10. ^ "Leading Rwanda: Creating, communicating and realising your vision". The New Times | Rwanda. December 19, 2019. Retrieved 2022-04-17.
  11. ^ Reporter, Times (2010-03-10). "Big John and Noop JA beef over song". The New Times. Retrieved 2024-06-21.
  12. ^ Omondi, Cynthia (2022-04-29). "The Youngster Promoting Talents in Rwanda". Vice Versa Global. Retrieved 2024-06-22.
  13. ^ "First stage laureates for 2024 African Music Academy awards announced | CIAM". www.ciamcreators.org. 2024-04-25. Retrieved 2024-06-22.
  14. ^ Gatera, Emmanuel (2024-04-16). "EAEA award is a motivation to keep shaping young talents - Noopja". The New Times. Retrieved 2024-06-21.
edit