Category: Music

THROWBACK | Ugly Faces

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L to R: Eazy Daz, DJ RichMaka & Mac D

It is Thursday once again, which means it is time for Throwback Music, allowing us to reflect on the good old days filled with great tunes. Today, we will spotlight the group “Ugly Faces” hailing from Ilala Shariff Shamba in Dar-es-Salaam. This duo consisted of two aspiring rappers eager to make their mark in the music industry: Benjamin McDennis Kamtawa, known as Mac D, and Khatibu Amani, referred to as Easy Daz.

L to R: Mac D, B Moses (Homeboy) & Eazy Daz – Ilala.

Their debut single was recorded at Mawingu Studios in Mwenge, Dar-es-Salaam, under the production and engineering of Boniphace Kilosa, also known as DJ Boniluv. Released in 1995, the single titled “Wapambe Nuksi” quickly became a hit, igniting excitement among the youth during their performances at secondary school concerts. Its success was undeniable.

In 1996, they returned to the same studio to record a second single, again collaborating with DJ Boniluv, after their manager at the time, Richard Mwandemani, also known as DJ Richmaka, secured the necessary resources. This second track, “Chachatika,” further solidified Ugly Faces’ presence in the Tanzanian music scene.

However, in 1998, the group disbanded when Easy Daz relocated abroad in search of a better life. This prompted Mac D to embark on solo projects, collaborating with various artists. Notable collaborations during this period included “Twiga Featuring Soggy Doggy,” “Kifo Cha Nyani Featuring Balozi Dola Soul,” “Tabibu Remix Feat Juma Nature“, “Nakupenda Si Utani Feat Unique Sisters and “Njoo Ucheze na Mi,” among others. He subsequently released his first solo album, titled “Hali Yangu.”

Mac D continues to pursue music to this day, although he also works at a clearing and forwarding company. Meanwhile, Easy Daz has settled in Brazil, South America.

Feel free to listen to a few audio snippets and a track from the “Hali Yangu” LP below.

Ugly Faces – Wapambe Nuksi (Snippet) below;

Ugly Faces – Chachatika (Snippet) below;

Mac D – Njoo Ucheze Nami Video below;

AUDIO | Davido – Be There Still

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Nigerian Grammy-nominated and award-winning artist Davido has electrified the music scene with his latest hit single titled “Be There Till.”

This remarkable track is featured on his new and engaging extended play album, “5IVE (EP).”

The unforgettable melody of this song is sure to leave a lasting impression, making it one you will want to enjoy repeatedly.

You can listen to “Davido – Be There Still” below;

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AUDIO | Phany Love – Forever

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Tanzanian emerging music star, Phany Love, has unveiled a new romantic track entitled “Forever,” enchanting listeners with its sincere lyrics and harmonious melody. This recent release is already gaining traction in the music industry, poised to become a beloved choice for couples and romantics.

“Forever” serves as a poignant declaration of profound love and dedication, ideal for individuals who cherish enduring relationships. With a seamless fusion of Afro-pop and Bongo Flava influences, Phany Love presents an emotionally compelling performance that strikes a chord with the audience.

Listen to “Phany Love – Forever” below;

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AUDIO | iPhoolish ft Dyana Cods, Diaso & Rahmu – Siendi Home

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Mike Makori, widely recognized by his stage name iPhoolish, is a contemporary music artist from Kenya, hailing from Kisii. He embarked on his musical journey in 2009, establishing himself as a contemporary artist. iPhoolish was part of Mbuzi Gang, a male rap and Gengetone group consisting of three members: Joefes, iPhoolish, and Fathermoh, all signed under Black Market Records.

Since 2018, he has been officially signed with Black Market Records. His unique singing style has garnered a growing fanbase. Recently, he released a new track titled “Siendi Home,” featuring artists Dyana Cods, Diaso, and Rahmu.

You can listen to “Iphoolish – Siendi Home Ft Dyana Cods, Diaso & Rahmu” below;

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AUDIO | P Mawenge – Nani Anapinga

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Tanzanian Hip-Hop artist Cleophace Yessaya Njella, known as “P Mawenge,” has returned with a new track titled “Nani Anapinga,” featured on his recently launched mixtape “Tambo Za Viwango.” Renowned for his remarkable storytelling abilities, profound Swahili lyrics, and seamless flow, P Mawenge consistently elevates the standards within the Bongo Hip-Hop genre.

Throughout his career, he has established himself as one of East Africa’s most impactful conscious rappers, skillfully merging Swahili and English to create music that is both genuine and socially aware. His previous hits, such as “Run DSM,” “Huna Jipya,” “Customer Care,” and “Mitaa Nayotoka,” have garnered him a dedicated following.

“Nani Anapinga” transcends the typical Hip-Hop genre; it serves as a compelling lyrical critique of societal injustices, corruption, and oppression. Released on March 14, 2025, the song advocates for truth, integrity, and a call to action in contemporary society.

You can listen to “P Mawenge – Nani Anapinga” below.

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AUDIO | John Blaq Ft Ibraah – Katalina

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Ugandan hip-hop and Afrobeat artist John Blaq collaborates with Tanzanian Bongo Flava sensation Ibraah to present “Katalina” a potential chart-topping anthem for 2025 that fuses dynamic beats, memorable hooks, and engaging lyrical narratives.

John Blaq, celebrated for hits such as “Mbimala,” “Tokutula,” and “Sweet Love,” continues to redefine the landscape of East African music. Meanwhile, Ibraah, an artist under Konde Music Worldwide, contributes his distinctive Swahili vocals and smooth melodies to this remarkable partnership.

Listen to “John Blaq Ft Ibraah – Katalina” below;

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AUDIO | Dwin Ft. Freshboys – Moyo

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Dwin, an emerging talent in Tanzanian Hip Hop, has developed a distinctive style that distinguishes him within the rap scene. His freestyle debut, “Unyama,” quickly gained viral popularity, followed by the successful track “Niongezee,” which firmly established his presence in the industry. Through various collaborations, Dwin’s unique sound has positioned him as one of the most in-demand artists in Bongo Flava.

“Moyo” is a profoundly expressive fusion of Hip Hop and Bongo Flava, featuring Dwin and Freshboys, who combine smooth melodies with impactful lyrics. The song narrates a compelling tale of love and desire, set against vibrant beats that contribute to its immediate appeal. Released on March 11, 2025, this track highlights exceptional production by Mnyamwengatz and Ghost Hand Beatz, with final mixing and mastering by Producer Randu.

Listen to “Dwin Ft. Freshboys – Moyo” below:

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AUDIO | Lomodo – Why

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Lomodo is a gifted singer and songwriter from Tanzania, celebrated for his emotive melodies and poignant lyrics. His hit single, “Nje Ya Ndoto,” established his reputation within the Bongo Flava genre, propelling him to become one of the most streamed artists on various digital platforms.

Released on March 12, 2025, “Why” is an evocative Bongo Flava ballad produced by Kimambo, renowned for his exceptional sound quality. The track delves into themes of love, heartbreak, and emotional turmoil, all delivered through Lomodo’s distinctive smooth vocals.

You can listen to “Lomodo – Why” below;

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THROWBACK | NIITE MR II LP (1998)

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Joseph Mbilinyi, widely recognized by his stage names Mr. II, Sugu, and 2 Proud, is a prominent Tanzanian politician, human rights advocate, and rapper. Hailing from Mbeya, Tanzania, he embarked on his rapping career in 1990 and has since distinguished himself as the first Tanzanian rap artist to attain significant acclaim.

His music tackles themes of politics, social injustices, and various challenges faced by Tanzanians, positioning him as a representative for those without a voice. As a celebrated figure in the Bongo Flava genre, Sugu addresses critical social issues in Swahili, including topics such as prostitution, immigration, and the plight of street children. His distinctive lyrical style, characterized by a methodical yet rapid delivery, has become a hallmark of the genre.

Sugu is a fervent supporter of Tanzanian hip-hop, or Bongo Flava, and serves as the chief organizer of the annual Tanzania Hip-Hop Summit. He has received numerous Pan-African music awards and has performed at various international festivals. His track “Haki” is regarded as the quintessential anthem of Bongo Flava in Swahili.

On this Thursday, we highlight his third album, “Niite Mr 2,” released in 1998. This album features hit tracks such as “Yoyote Popote,” “Zaidi na Zaidi,” “Sema Nao,” and “Hali Halisi,” marking a significant milestone in his career and that of the new generation of rap artists.

Sugu’s discography is impressive, comprising a total of ten studio albums, including seven additional releases following his initial success. Currently, he is focusing more on his political and business ventures.

Below, you can explore two tracks from the “Niite Mr 2” album.

Mr II Ft Balozi Dola Soul – Sema Nao

Mr II – Nnapotaka

AUDIO | Ibraah – Nimekubali

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Ibrahim Abdallah Nampunga “Ibraah“, born on July 3, 1998, in Tanga, Tanzania, is recognized as one of the most promising artists in the Bongo Flava genre. He is signed to Konde Music Worldwide, and his debut single, “Nimekubali,” propelled him to fame. Renowned for his smooth vocal style and profound lyrics, Ibraah has consistently made a significant impact on the East African music scene with popular tracks such as “One Night Stand,” “Dharau,” “Nimpende,” and “Jipinde.”

“Nimekubali,” released on April 13, 2020, is a poignant love ballad that explores themes of heartbreak and acceptance. Through his lyrics, Ibraah eloquently conveys feelings of betrayal, disappointment, and the journey toward healing, demonstrating his ability to resonate with his audience on an intimate level.

The song, produced by Kapipo Beats, features a harmonious blend of melodic instrumentation and soulful vocal delivery, establishing it as a notable work within the Bongo Flava genre.

You can listen to “Ibraah – Nimekubali” below;

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