Meet Ishimwe Gisubizo Emanuel A.K.A Young Mill, a Rwandan rap artist and songwriter, who hails from humble beginnings in the district of Kicukiro in Kigali, Rwanda. Born and raised, his childhood was marked by the loss of his father, which thrust his family into tough circumstances, being raised by a single mother.
His love for music took root early in life, around 5th grade when he discovered hip-hop as a means to express his thoughts and emotions. Growing up in challenging conditions, Young Mill faced the terrifying struggles of depression and anxiety as a teenager, which further fueled his desire to channel his feelings into his music.
One night, Young Mill had a powerful dream that left a lasting impact on him. He found himself lost in a dark forest, scared and surrounded by eerie sounds. However, as he moved forward, he spotted a distant light and mustered the courage to follow it despite the obstacles and pain he faced along the way. This dream served as a vision for him, symbolizing the importance of seeking the light in life, even in the darkest moments. It became a guiding principle for him, inspiring him to be a source of hope for others through his music.
Young Mill's music is a reflection of his own experiences, where he pours his heart and soul into the lyrics. His childhood in a poor family and the struggles he faced propelled him towards his passion for music from a young age. He recalls even getting into trouble at school for drumming loudly on a table while beatboxing. It was during this time that he became fascinated by the lyrics of hip-hop legends like Tupac and Biggie, and he set out to understand and learn more about rap, which soon became his artistic outlet and escape from the outside noise.
At one point, he saved up money by selling scraps to buy an iPad filled with some of his favorite hip-hop songs. Young Mill memorized the lyrics of those songs and found solace in their words. This passion for music ultimately led him to perform Tupac's "Dear Mama" at a talent show, where he impressed everyone with his ability to flawlessly recite the lyrics.
Young Mill's music is unique because it lays bare his life's journey, with lyrics that resonate with others who have faced similar struggles. His songs aim to be a guiding light for those going through difficult times, inspiring them to persevere and find strength in their pain. Through his music, he hopes to connect with his audience and create a world where they can find comfort and understanding.
Young Mill's story is one of resilience, determination, and a deep connection with music as a source of hope and healing. His journey as a rap artist and songwriter reflects the struggles and triumphs of his life, making his music authentic and relatable to many.
