Sometimes, a song isn’t just a track. For Skid, one of the voices behind the rising hit “Mbali,” it became a lifeline. Released on May 30, “Mbali” — which translates to “far away” — is quickly gaining momentum not just for its hypnotic beat but for the emotion behind it. The message is simple but powerful: no matter the setbacks, don’t let anything keep you from chasing your dreams. “I faced a lot of things while I was creating that song,” Skid said. “Hardships, grief, pressure. So the song became a way to channel all that into growth. It helped me keep moving forward.” ALSO READ: Rwanda’s hottest rising rappers to watch in 2025 That message of perseverance runs through Skid’s music and through the collective he’s a part of. Known as 99Gang, the group is quietly reshaping how Rwandan hip-hop is perceived. Made up of Kelly Cyusa (Kellz), David Byiringiro (G-Flag), Junior Muhoza (Jr T-Rex), Bryan Ntunda (Bryan), Jules Shema (The Illusionist), and Joel Ntwari (Skid), the group started humbly. Their origin story begins with G-Flag and Bryan, who began recording music on a worn-out laptop and a church microphone. No studio. No budget. Just vision. “The rest of us joined later,” Skid said. “That’s how the idea grew.” Even their name has a backstory. Originally, everyone in the group was supposed to be born in 1999, like its founders. That rule was quickly broken, but the name stuck. ALSO READ: AY talks music path, founding ‘GMF,’ repping street culture While they draw from classic hip-hop, especially trap and boom bap, the group avoids imitation. What makes them stand out is their intention. Skid told The New Times that their music is rooted in relatable everyday struggles, with a focus on impact. Sampling is a key part of their production, elevated by the group’s in-house producer, The Illusionist. Despite the range of styles each artist brings, they work with a shared sense of purpose. “Everyone has their dreams and aspirations,” Skid said. “But there’s mutual respect. When we need to make a group decision musically, it’s easy because we’ve known each other for years.” Even as their following grows, 99Gang has had to push for their vision to be recognized. “Though we’re one group, we might attract different fans,” Skid said, laughing. “But that’s a blessing.” Looking ahead, the group is thinking bigger. Jr T-Rex is set to release a new album before July, and Skid describes it as packed with “timeless bangers.” Beyond that, the group’s ambitions extend across borders. “I see 99Gang as pioneers,” Skid said. “People who laid down an important foundation for Rwandan hip-hop.” “And I see the whole gang becoming more of a global movement — Inshallah.”
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