Tag: African Hip Hop

AUDIO | Baghdad – Mshua (Freestyle)

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Tanzanian hip-hop artist, formerly part of the group “Mexicana La Cavera,” known as “Baghdad ‘Pray God Kweka’ ” has released a new freestyle track entitled “Mshua (Freestyle).” This song delivers a powerful rap energy, characterized by confidence, precise delivery, and a straightforward freestyle style tailored for hip-hop enthusiasts.

Released on May 10, 2026, “Mshua (Freestyle)” has a duration of approximately 6 minutes and 49 seconds, highlighting Baghdad’s punchline-rich technique, street-inspired self-assurance, and competitive lyrical energy. Some music platforms categorize the track under Bongo Flava and Tanzanian hip-hop.

In Tanzania’s rap scene, Baghdad is recognized for his strong lyrical presence, assertive delivery, and his skill in utilizing freestyle as a medium for wordplay and competition. His style resonates with audiences who appreciate authentic bars, straightforward lyrics, and the essence of classic hip-hop confidence.

The song focuses on lyrical supremacy, competition, and demonstrating strength within the rap industry. Through forceful bars and a battle-oriented delivery, Baghdad employs “Mshua Freestyle” to assert himself as a formidable voice in Tanzanian hip-hop.

Watch Video by “Baghdad – Mshua (Freestyle)” below;

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AUDIO | Dicazzi – Tafsiri

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A rap artist from “Bongoland“, Tanzania, known as “Dicazzi“, has released a new Hip-Hop/Rap single titled “Tafsiri.” This track showcases his reflective storytelling approach, emphasizing life, personal experiences, and the profound meanings behind the daily struggles individuals encounter.

“Tafsiri” is available on various music platforms, including Apple Music and YouTube, as a single as of April 29th 2026. Dicazzi’s YouTube profile reveals his real name, “Adam Erick Chale,” a Tanzanian rap artist who was born and raised in Mbezi, Dar es Salaam.

“Dicazzi” is recognized for his music that is deeply rooted in real-life narratives and street reflections. His discography features tracks such as “Maajabu,” “Usikue feat MC Mboneke,” “Mtaani,” “Uhalisia,” and “Kesho,” which have contributed to his emergence as one of the prominent voices in Tanzania’s Hip-Hop scene.

In the song “Tafsiri,” Dicazzi conveys to listeners that not every circumstance should be evaluated solely from an external perspective. He stated, “everyone judges from a position you are. One person might see a number ‘6’ while another, from a different angle, will perceive it as a number ‘9’.” The song addresses themes of pain, silence, life choices, and concealed personal struggles, urging individuals to delve deeper before passing judgment on others. Its poignant message resonates with anyone who has ever felt misjudged or unfairly evaluated.

Listen to “Dicazzi – Tafsiri” below;

Watch Video by “Dicazzi – Tafsiri” below;

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VIDEO | Fid Q – Pray

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Born as Fareed Kubanda, he is commonly known as “Ngosha” and performs under the stage name “Fid Q.” He hails from Mwanza, Tanzania, and is a prominent hip hop artist and songwriter. Celebrated for his sharp lyricism, impactful storytelling, and social commentary, he has made a name for himself as one of the most respected rap artists in East Africa.

Over the course of his rap career, he has released multiple full-length LPs. His discography features notable albums such as KitaaREJEX (2025), Kitaaolojia (2019), Propaganda (2009), and Vina Mwanzo Kati Na Mwisho (2005). Acknowledged for his lyrical depth, his works often include collaborations with various artists.

Recently, Fid Q released a video for “PRAY,” a reflective hip hop track that underscores his position as a rap icon from Tanzania. This song is the second track from Fid Q’s album Kitaa REJEX, expressing themes of hope, resilience, and spirituality through insightful lyrics and high-quality production.

Watch the video “Fid Q – PRAY” below;

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AUDIO | Fid Q – Pray

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Born as Fareed Kubanda, he is often referred to as “Ngosha” and goes by the stage name “Fid Q.” He is a Tanzanian hip hop artist and songwriter, born on August 13, 1982, in Mwanza, Tanzania. Renowned for his incisive lyricism, meaningful storytelling, and social critique, he has established himself as one of the most esteemed rap voices in East Africa.

Fid Q initially rose to prominence with the song “Huyu na Yule,” recorded at MJ Records and featuring the iconic R&B artist Mr. Paul, whose real name is Paul Mbena. Since then, he has released numerous critically acclaimed projects, solidifying his position within the regional music landscape.

Throughout his rap career, he has produced several full-length LPs. His discography includes significant albums such as KitaaREJEX (2025), Kitaaolojia (2019), Propaganda (2009), and Vina Mwanzo Kati Na Mwisho (2005). Recognized for his lyrical profundity, his works frequently showcase collaborations with a variety of artists.

Recently, Fid Q unveiled a video for “PRAY,” a contemplative hip hop track that highlights his status as a rap icon from Tanzania. This song is the second track from Fid Q’s album Kitaa REJEX released August 13th last year, conveying themes of hope, resilience, and spirituality through thoughtful lyrics and polished production.

Listen to “Fid Q – PRAY” below;

Watch Video by “Fid Q – PRAY” below;

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AUDIO | Nikki Mbishi – Kabla Sijafa

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Tanzanian hip-hop artist Nicas Machuche, known by his stage name “Nikki Mbishi,” has released a thought-provoking rap single titled “Kabla Sijafa.” The title translates to “Before I Die,” and the song embodies his characteristic message-oriented style, which is centered on profound storytelling, introspection, and incisive lyrical delivery.

Released on May 5, 2026, “Kabla Sijafa” was produced by Villy on the Beat, with mixing and mastering by Blandos, and it was independently launched under Unju Music. The track features a polished hip-hop production style with a consistent rhythm that highlights the lyrics and the underlying message effectively.

Nikki Mbishi is a well-respected rapper and lyricist from Tanzania, recognized for his conscious hip-hop, social commentary, clever wordplay, and impactful storytelling. He is also linked to the name “Unju Bin Unuki,” which is featured in various aspects of his music branding and projects.

The song contemplates themes of legacy, mortality, personal errors, and the quest for dreams before life concludes. Rather than emphasizing club vibes, “Kabla Sijafa” offers a reflective message for those who value thoughtful, message-centric rap.

Listen to “Nikki Mbishi – Kabla Sijafa” below;

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Throwback Thursday | Bugsy Malone Ft D Rob – Utaona

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D Rob and Bugsy 1998 MJ Rec

It is Thursday, marking a significant occasion. Today, we honor a member of the Kwanza Unit foundation, known as Bugsy Malone born Esrom Margai, for his track “Utaona,” which was one of the few songs that heralded their arrival in the Tanzanian music scene in 1999.

In this masterpiece, Bugsy collaborated with a fellow member of Kwanza Unit, who was also his close friend, Robert Mwingira, known as D Rob, and sometimes referred to as Zomba.

All verses were performed by Bugsy in English. The hook of this joint was delivered in Swahili by D Rob, and it goes as follows:

“Kama hujui unakotoka, hujui unakokwenda
Fikiri kabla ya Kutenda. Fanya Unachopenda Iliandikwa haikusemwa.
Fanya mapema sasa nasema, vitabu vilishachomwa, Sitorudia tena, kama unajua we utaona,…”

Bugsy Malone

This song received considerable airtime on the radio during that period. It introduced Bugsy to rap music enthusiasts who were previously unaware of him. He relocated to the USA the same year the song was released and continues to reside there to this day. Unfortunately, D Rob passed away in 2002. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Furthermore, a special acknowledgment goes to Jumanne Thomas for sharing the audio clip of this song. #bongo90s #drob #bugsymalone #utaona #bongothrowbacks🎼🎼🎼🔥🔥🔥💯💯

Enjoy this rare gem below, and do not forget to follow me on all my social media accounts @ngomanagwa.

Listen to “Bugsy Malone Ft D Rob – Utaona” Snippet below;

AUDIO | Guilty Simpson – Tukusa 3IX Ft Nikki Mbishi & Kaa La Moto

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One of the most conscious and dope lyricist “Guilty Simpson“, Tanzanian hip hop pioneer Nikki Mbishi, and Kenyan rap veteran Kaa La Moto collaborate on “Tukusa 3IX,” a gritty boom-bap track produced by Black Ninjah.

This song is released under Dapstrem Entertainment and is part of the ongoing Tukusa series, a project celebrated for its heavy drums, sharp lyrics, and authentic hip hop energy. This installment bridges East African rap culture with Detroit hip hop through the involvement of Guilty Simpson, while Nikki Mbishi and Kaa La Moto contribute significant regional lyrical strength.

Nikki Mbishi is regarded as one of Tanzania’s prominent hip hop figures, recognized for his clever wordplay and socially conscious rap. Kaa La Moto has also established a formidable reputation in Kenyan hip hop, while Guilty Simpson is acknowledged globally for his underground rap heritage and powerful lyrical style.

“Tukusa 3IX” centers on lyrical supremacy, resilience, and the preservation of authentic hip hop. The track resonates with fans who appreciate bars, meaningful messages, and raw boom-bap production in an ever-evolving music landscape.

Listen to, “Guilty Simpson – Tukusa 3IX Ft Nikki Mbishi & Kaa La Moto” below;

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Throwback Thursday | Hard Blasters – Time For Action Feat. Killa B

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Today is Thursday, and we are once again celebrating the legendary 90’s Tanzanian Hip Hop Music from The Hard Blasters Crew. Our spotlight today is on their third and final album, released in 1999 after being recorded at MJ Records. This achievement was made possible by the inclusion of Joseph Haule, known as Professor Jay, who was previously called Nigga J. The album, titled “Funga Kazi 2000,” features popular tracks like “Chemsha Bongo,” “Mamsap,” and “Chuzi Limekubali.” The entire production of the album was handled by Ludigo Bishota.

The track highlighted today is “Time For Action,” which is also part of this LP and features contributions from Killa B born Badi Sangu of “Imeditation Kingdom” (2nd Photo below). He is the guy who introduced Nigga Jay to Hard Blasters Crew . In this collaboration, they emphasize the necessity for action without excuses. Terry Msiagi, also known as Fanani (Photo below), performed the first verse on this track. This is the sole track on the LP that was recorded in English.

Joseph Haule, widely recognized by his stage name Professor Jay, is a Tanzanian hip hop recording artist, politician, and former member of the Tanzanian parliament representing the Mikumi constituency. He stands as a significant figure in the “Bongo Flava” Tanzanian hip hop subgenre, which blends elements of Western hip hop with Tanzanian traditions, incorporating Swahili lyrics and an activist stance on pressing social issues in Tanzania, such as “UKIMWI” translate to HIV/AIDS, wealth disparity, and political corruption.

While the rain may be halted, the honor of Prof Jay in Bongo Flava cannot be diminished. On May 1, 2026, the Bongo Flava Honors will finally realize Jay’s long-awaited induction ceremony. History will be made at 710 Garden, Kawe, with Sugu The Jongwe commemorating the event.

Listen to “Hard Blasters Crew – Time for Action (Prof Jay & Killa B Verses) below;

AUDIO | Mex Cortez – MEEHX Freestyle WYFLRiddim

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A hip hop artist from Tanzania, “Mex Cortez” has released a new freestyle titled “MEEHX Freestyle,” furthering his presence in the Bongo Hip Hop scene with a dynamic and vigorous performance.

The track debuted on April 24, 2026, as part of the #WYFLRiddim (Who You Feel Like) series. The production is managed by DJ Mac and Crashdummy, providing a robust hip hop foundation that enables Mex to highlight his lyrical prowess.

Mex Cortez, commonly referred to as “The Barbender,” is celebrated for his impactful punchlines and distinctive multilingual approach, seamlessly integrating English, Swahili, and Sinhala into his flow. He has been generating a consistent buzz within the Tanzanian hip hop community, particularly among enthusiasts who value authentic bars and freestyle artistry.

In “MEEHX Freestyle,” he embraces confidence and lyrical supremacy, delivering verses that are competitive, assertive, and aimed at establishing his position in the rap industry. This freestyle exemplifies skill, clever wordplay, and a commanding presence.

Watch Video by “Mex Cortez – MEEHX Freestyle” below;

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AUDIO | Darassa Ft Khaligraph Jones – Beginning

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Tanzanian rapper Darassa collaborates with Kenyan hip-hop icon Khaligraph Jones on the track “Beginning,” a new rap partnership that exudes a strong cinematic essence. Released on April 21, 2026, the song was accompanied by a “Beginning Short Film ‘TRAILER'” like from Darassa, providing a more dramatic and film-like introduction compared to a typical single release.

According to the official release information available on YouTube, “Beginning” is attributed to both Darassa and Khaligraph Jones and was launched under CMG in 2026. The trailer-based rollout effectively positioned the song as more than just a standard audio release, incorporating a visual narrative around the collaboration. Darassa’s recent works also feature his project Take Away The Pain, while Khaligraph Jones unveiled “Uspimee” in January 2026.

Darassa is recognized as one of Tanzania’s prominent rap figures, celebrated for his fusion of Bongo Flava and hip-hop, whereas Khaligraph Jones stands as one of Kenya’s leading rap artists, boasting a long-established reputation in East African hip-hop. The collaboration on “Beginning” represents a significant regional connection between two artists with substantial fan bases and distinct rap identities.

Given the title and its introduction, the song conveys the impression of a new chapter, a bold statement, and a confident convergence of the rap scenes from Tanzania and Kenya. The cinematic presentation implies ambition, intensity, and a more grandiose display, aligning with the image both artists have cultivated over time. This interpretation is based on the title and the style of rollout, rather than an official explanation from the artists.

Listen to “Darassa Ft. Khaligraph Jones – Beginning” below;

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