Windham-based rapper to release new music video
Maine Rapper Munye Mohamed Prepares to Drop Long‑Awaited “THC” Video
Windham, Maine – Windham‑based rapper Munye Mohamed, better known on the mic as Shine, is putting the final touches on a music video that has been in development for three years. The visual accompaniment to his new track “THC” is slated for release later this year and, according to Mohamed, “the biggest thing Maine’s ever seen.”
Mohamed, a Somali‑American who arrived in the United States as a child, grew up in Lewiston and Portland before settling in North Windham in 2025. A graduate of Portland High School and the Northeast Technical Institute with a degree in HVAC, he has balanced a career in heating, ventilation, and air‑conditioning with his passion for music and poetry.
He first earned public recognition as a poet, winning the Maine State Poetry Out Loud competition in 2011. He often performed at open‑mic nights in Portland and began recording music while living in Africa. “I’m for the people, I’m for the community,” Mohamed said in a recent interview, underscoring his commitment to giving back.
A Trilogy and a New Chapter
Mohamed has released three albums under the “Aspirations” title: the debut in 2015, “Aspirations 2” in 2021, and “Aspirations 3” in 2022. The new track “THC” marks the first single since the end of that trilogy. While most of the video was shot in 2023, production stalled when Mohamed’s HVAC responsibilities demanded his attention. He has since invested thousands of dollars into the project and is working with producer Landry Gapangwa—who previously collaborated on “Aspirations”—to finish the video. Gapangwa is scheduled to fly into Maine in November to help complete the final edits.
AI‑Driven Visuals and a Futuristic Theme
The video features a blend of high‑budget production elements and artificial‑intelligence–generated imagery. Preview footage shows Mohamed flying in a private jet, driving a Lamborghini, and navigating an AI‑crafted futuristic landscape. The heavy use of AI is not new; the earlier 2024 video for “Lifeless” also relied on the technology. Mohamed revealed that the “THC” video was originally intended to accompany “Lifeless” but was re‑conceptualized after realizing the songs had different vibes.
Community Concerns and Personal Aspirations
Beyond the studio, Mohamed has become a vocal advocate for the Somali‑American community in Maine, which he says has been heavily affected by recent ICE raids. He recorded a video of an ICE arrest and expressed frustration that hardworking immigrants like himself were being deported. “I’ve seen how the community is being hit,” he told reporters. “We need to stand up for ourselves.”
Looking ahead, Mohamed said he plans to step back from the music scene for a time. He is considering running for local office in Windham and, if successful, may eye statewide positions such as governor or U.S. Senate. His stated focus would be on uplifting youth and shielding them from drug addiction.
Next Steps
With the production team finalizing the “THC” video, fans can expect a high‑profile release later this year. The video promises to showcase Mohamed’s artistic vision and his continued dedication to his community. As the rapper prepares to shift gears toward public service, Maine will watch to see how his creative and civic ambitions unfold.
