After years of working under the creative wing of 1:55 AM, celebrated Rwandan singer and songwriter Kenny Sol has officially departed from the label — signaling not just a personal transition, but also reflecting a larger trend toward artist-led career management in Rwanda’s music scene.
Announced on June 2, 2025, through a joint press statement, the separation was described as amicable and strategic, with both parties expressing appreciation for their past collaboration. Their final joint release, a single titled “DEJAVU”, serves as a symbolic farewell and a celebration of their journey together.
A New Era: From Label-Backed to Self-Driven
Kenny Sol now joins a growing list of East African artists redefining their careers outside the traditional label system. Rather than seeking another label, he is shifting toward greater control and flexibility, with his future musical direction and brand management being handled by Spectacular, a company that has already played a key role in his recent marketing and image strategy.
This shift mirrors the changing dynamics of the music industry, where digital platforms, brand partnerships, and social media have empowered artists to bypass gatekeepers and take ownership of their work from production to promotion.
Industry Shake-Up: What’s Happening at 1:55 AM?
While the label emphasized the peaceful nature of Kenny Sol’s departure, industry whispers suggest ongoing internal restructuring at 1:55 AM. In recent months, rumors of operational changes or even closure have circulated, especially following the quiet exit of fellow artist Ross Kana.
The departure of two of its most visible artists raises questions about the label’s future model and whether it can adapt to the increasingly independent landscape of the Rwandan music industry.
Kenny Sol’s Career: At a Crossroads, With Vision
Despite the split, Kenny Sol’s brand remains strong. Known for blending Afrobeat, R&B, and local sounds, he has consistently shown the ability to evolve — musically and professionally.
As he steps into this new phase, the focus is expected to shift toward greater *creative experimentation, international collaborations, and digital-first releases. With *Spectacular potentially opening new doors across Africa and beyond, fans and industry stakeholders are watching closely to see how he repositions himself as an independent force.
Redefining Success on His Own Terms
Kenny Sol’s departure marks not a breakup but a breakthrough. It highlights the changing nature of music careers in Rwanda, where artists are no longer just performers, but entrepreneurs, strategists, and brand owners.
In many ways, this is more than a story of one artist leaving a label it’s a snapshot of a maturing music industry, where independence is not a fallback, but a power move.
