Rwandan musician Bensoul has released his new album 'Flight 420', which he says is a return to his musical roots. The album, comprising 13 tracks, was released on October 30, 2026, and features a blend of Reggae, Dancehall, and Afrosoul. Bensoul explained that the album is a reflection of his musical journey and his desire to reconnect with his roots. He stated that he had been working on the album for a long time and that it was a dream come true.
Bensoul's musical journey began with Reggae and Rastafari music, but as he gained popularity, he shifted his focus to creating music that would appeal to a wider audience. He expressed that this shift led him to stray from his musical roots. However, with the release of 'Flight 420', Bensoul aims to revive his passion for Reggae and Dancehall music. The album features collaborations with various artists, including Savara, Coster Ojwang, Spyro, and Scar Mkadinali.
One of the standout tracks on the album is 'Tears of Joy', which Bensoul says holds a special meaning for him. The song talks about the joy and happiness that one experiences in life, and how even tears of sadness can be a manifestation of that joy. Another notable track is 'Nobody Wins, Nobody Loses', which features Mike Kayihura, a Rwandan artist. The song speaks to the ups and downs of relationships and the importance of compromise.
Bensoul's decision to create an album focused on Reggae and Dancehall was a long-held dream. He revealed that he had been working on songs in these genres for years but had not yet released them as a cohesive project. The album 'Flight 420' is a culmination of his efforts to create music that is true to his artistic vision. Bensoul drew inspiration from the Rastafari flag, incorporating its colors - red, yellow, and green - into the album's theme.
The album 'Flight 420' features a diverse range of collaborations with artists from Kenya and other countries. Bensoul expressed his excitement about working with these artists and the creative process that went into producing the album. He stated that the album's title, 'Flight 420', represents a journey of self-discovery and growth. Bensoul's musical style has evolved over the years, and 'Flight 420' showcases his ability to blend different genres and create a unique sound.
Bensoul's experience working with Sol Generation, a music organization founded by Sauti Sol members, has had a significant impact on his career. He learned valuable lessons about artist management, music business, and networking. Bensoul emphasized the importance of financial management for artists, stating that money can quickly disappear if not managed properly. He encouraged fellow artists to be proactive and take charge of their careers.
Bensoul plans to promote the album through various concerts and tours, allowing fans to experience the music live. With 'Flight 420', Bensoul aims to reestablish himself as a prominent figure in the music scene, both locally and internationally. His contribution to Burna Boy's Grammy-winning album 'Twice as Tall' demonstrates his capabilities as a songwriter and producer. The release of 'Flight 420' marks a new chapter in Bensoul's musical journey, one that is characterized by a renewed focus on his artistic roots and a passion for creating meaningful music.
Key points
- Bensoul's album 'Flight 420' combines Reggae, Dancehall, and Afrosoul, marking a return to his musical roots.
- The album features collaborations with various artists, including Savara, Coster Ojwang, Spyro, and Scar Mkadinali.
- Bensoul's musical journey has been shaped by his experiences working with Sol Generation and his desire to create music that is true to his artistic vision.