Himbaza Simplice Elinathan, commonly known as AY born in (2003-06-06) June 6, 2003 (age 21) in Rwamagana, Rwanda to Augustin Ngirukwayo and Godelice Mukamwiza) is a Rwandan recording artist, music producer and founder of record label called GMF means Get Money Forever.
Early life and career
He was raised in Kigali city after spending his early years in Rwamagana district, he developed a passion for music through his family, particularly his older brothers, and his early experience playing piano in church. AY began his career as a music producer, working with prominent Rwandan artists in the hip-hop scene, as well as serving as a mixing and mastering engineer. He later started working on his own projects. His first notable project, the Exit EP, was followed by the "Ideas" Mixtape, which helped establish his reputation. His production style blends hip-hop, afrobeat, and dancehall through both traditional and modern musical elements.
References
- Bahizi, Heritier (2024-10-28). "AY talks music path, founding 'GMF,' repping street culture". The New Times. Retrieved 2024-12-10.
- Ruzigana, Prince (2024-11-28). "AY: Rwandan rising star taking music production to new levels". The New Times (Rwanda). Retrieved 2024-12-10.
- Andrew, Shyaka (October 25, 2024). "Creating Hip Hop Beats Is My Calling-Producer AY".
- Heritier, Bahizi (2024-03-08). "Top six rap collectives driving the genre forward". The New Times. Retrieved 2024-12-10.
- "Ndigukaba II mixtape review: A dive into Kigali's rap scene". The New Times (Rwanda).
- Sibomana, Emmanuel (2024-12-10). "Simplice Himbaza(AY): The Rwandan Producer Dreaming of Producing for Global Icons Particularly Rappers - Global Vibe News". Retrieved 2024-12-10.
- "AY's 'Ideas' Mixtape Review: The beats, lyrics fueling GMF's breakthrough". The New Times. 2024-09-02. Retrieved 2024-12-10.