Zuba Ray, who recently completed her studies at the Nyundo School of Music, released the remake on Thursday night, December 4, 2025, premiering it on YouTube.

The song’s audio on TikTok has since soared to the top of the platform’s trending sounds, with thousands of music lovers using it in their videos.

Speaking to InyaRwanda, the rising star explained that her decision was shaped by long-standing respect for King James’ artistry:“The first reason I chose to remake his song is that he’s an artist I grew up listening to and genuinely love.”

She went on to emphasize how King James influenced her songwriting journey: “I admire his writing style it’s unique, rich, and beautiful. He’s one of the artists I look up to, and I hope to work with him in the near future.”

Her remake of “Ese Warakiniraga” signals a new phase in her career one that celebrates the artists who shaped her musical direction while introducing a fresh sound to fans who cherish classic Rwandan hits.

Zuba Ray has been in the music scene for just one year. During this period, she has released songs such as “Igisabo,” which served as her breakthrough single, “Everyday” featuring Nel Ngabo, and “Utuntu.”

The Global Trend of Remaking Songs

In the international music industry, remaking or covering a song is a widely respected artistic practice. It allows musicians to expand their reach, showcase vocal or stylistic versatility, and pay homage to the legends who shaped the art before them.

Some of the best-known global hits are, in fact, covers.

A classic example is “I Will Always Love You.”
While the song was originally written and recorded by Dolly Parton in 1974, it only achieved global notoriety when Whitney Houston remade it for the 1992 film The Bodyguard.

Houston’s powerful rendition became one of the biggest songs in music history, elevating her career and introducing an entirely new generation to the original composition.

In many cases, a well-executed cover breathes new life into a timeless song, reviving it for younger audiences and exposing it to broader musical markets. It also provides rising artists with opportunities sometimes leading to record deals, major collaborations, or international recognition.

Artists often add their own emotional depth, vocal style, or creative direction, giving the song a fresh identity while honoring the original creator.

Zuba Ray’s remake aligns with this global artistic tradition

By revisiting King James’ beloved hit, Zuba Ray joins countless artists worldwide who use covers not merely to replicate lyrics and melodies, but to interpret, honor, and elevate the music that shaped them.

Her version is both a tribute to King James’ legacy and a statement of her growing presence in Rwanda’s music industry.