Tag: African Music

Throwback Thursday | G.W.M – Haya Twende

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It is Thursday, which signifies a special moment. Today, we honor G.W.M with their track “Haya Twende”, one of the two songs that marked their entry into the Tanzanian music scene.

G.W.M, an acronym for Gangstas With Matatizo, is also referred to as Mazimwi, with the word “matatizo” translating to problems in Swahili. Emulating the persona of a U.S.-style gangsta rapper in Dar es Salaam undoubtedly poses its own set of challenges.

However, G.W.M has remained dedicated to reality rap, performing solely in Swahili, and tackling the daily hardships encountered in the streets of Bongo. This term, a colloquial reference to Dar es Salaam, suggests the need for intelligence to navigate life, as “bongo” means smart or clever in Swahili.

The group is comprised of three members:
D CHIEF (real name Robert E. Makala)
EASY DOPE (real name Richard Makala), who is the elder sibling of D Chief
K.R. MULLAH (real name Rashid Ziada)

The music of the 90s had its unique flavor. A special acknowledgment goes to DJ “Boniluv” real name “Boniphace Kilosa” (Photo below) for producing this track and their album “Mikosi.” Their most popular song was “Cheza Mbali na Kasheshe.” K.R. Mullah and D Chief formed an inseparable duo.

Additionally, a shout-out to Jumanne Thomas for sharing the audio clip of this song. #bongo90s #gwm #tmkstyle #tbt #bongothrowback🎼🎼🎼🎼🎼🔥🔥🔥🔥💯💯

Listen to “Haya Twende” 2 verses from G.W.M below;

Audio | Fathermoh Ft Mejja – Laana

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Kenyan street-pop sensation Fathermoh collaborates with the legendary hitmaker Mejja on the track “Laana,” a gritty yet catchy partnership that fuses raw storytelling with an unmistakable street flavor.

Both artists are celebrated for their unapologetic honesty, and this song sees them fully embracing themes that mirror everyday realities and relationships. In “Laana,” Fathermoh showcases his signature melodic flow, addressing love, frustration, and emotional repercussions, while Mejja contributes with his experienced delivery, infusing humor and street wisdom that longtime fans readily identify.

The production is minimal yet effective, propelled by rhythmic percussion and a steady groove that maintains the emphasis on the lyrics and their message. The song flourishes due to its relatability, employing everyday language and scenarios to create a narrative that resonates with many listeners. It serves as a reminder of why both artists continue to be relevant—by remaining authentic, grounded, and true to the streets that have influenced their sound.

Listen to “Fathermoh Ft Mejja – Laana” below;

Download MP3:

Audio | Iyanii – Mali Safi

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Mali Safi is a heartwarming love anthem that was released in late January 2026 by the Kenyan artist Iyanii (Ian Oure). This song serves as the fifth single from his eagerly awaited upcoming album and showcases his characteristic combination of smooth vocals and poignant storytelling.

Dedicated to his beloved, Mali Safi is a personal tribute to love, beauty, and commitment. Iyanii’s lyrics depict his partner as an angelic figure, celebrating her elegance and the happiness she brings into his life. With its uplifting tune and romantic theme, the track encapsulates the essence of genuine, steadfast love—making it a remarkable release and an ideal soundtrack for anyone experiencing love.

Listen to “Iyanii – Mali Safi” below;

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Audio | Tunda Man – Naoa

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Tunda Man is a Bongo Flava artist from Tanzania, born in Dar es Salaam. He embarked on his musical journey in the mid-2000s and quickly gained fame due to his distinctive voice and catchy tracks. Throughout his career, he has worked with prominent Tanzanian artists, producing hits that have solidified his status in the Tanzanian music scene.

The track “Naoa” is a wedding-themed Bongo Flava song by Tunda Man, a renowned artist hailing from Tanzania. This song features uplifting melodies and lyrics that honor love and marriage, highlighting the cultural significance of weddings within Tanzanian society. It demonstrates Tunda Man’s talent for crafting music that resonates with daily life and celebratory events.

To complement the audio, Tunda Man has released the official music video for “Naoa,” which presents a romantic narrative focused on commitment, marriage, and the responsibilities that come with love. The video embodies maturity and the bravery required to select a lifelong partner.

In the “Naoa (Video),” Tunda Man offers captivating visuals, high-quality cinematography, and contemporary editing that enhance the song’s themes. The video is appealing to fans of romantic narratives, music centered on commitment, and modern Bongo Flava aesthetics.


Watch to “Tunda Man – Naoa” video below;

Listen to “Tunda Man – Naoa” below;

Download MP3:

Audio | Aznas Link – Business Mind

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Aznas Link collaborates with Azma, Nikki Mbishi, Mex Cortez, Country Boy, P Mawenge, Manengo, One The Incredible, and Baby Boy on the track “Business Mind,” which emphasizes hustle culture, strategic thinking, and achieving long-term success.

The song promotes a transition towards discipline, careful planning, and personal growth.

In “Business Mind,” each artist presents their distinct viewpoint on work ethic and ambition, all set against a backdrop of refined modern production. The outcome is an inspiring record that resonates with enthusiasts of conscious hip hop and message-oriented Tanzanian music.

Watch Aznas Link featuring Azma, Nikki, Mex Cortez, Country Wizzy, P Mawenge, Manengo, One The Incredible, and Baby Boy – Business Mind below;

Download MP3:

THROWBACK | Mabaga Fresh – Tupo Kamili

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It is yet another Thursday, and today our “Throwback Thursday” feature spotlights the group “Mabaga Fresh,” also known as “Chombo Cha Dola.” This hip-hop duo comprises two individuals with disabilities, Jumanne Omary, commonly known as “JB,” and Chritoms Mwingira, referred to as “DJ Snox,” both originating from Temeke, Dar-es-Salaam.

During the 1990s, this rap group made notable contributions to the Tanzanian “new generation music scene.” They played a crucial role in introducing one of the most prominent and esteemed bongo flava artists, Juma Kassim Kiroboto, also known as “Juma Nature,” with their hit song “Mtulize,” produced by the legendary DJ Boni Luv.

Today, we will concentrate on their song from their debut album titled “Tupo Kamili.” This track is one of those that fans adored, and every time they performed it live, the audience went wild.

Watch the live performance of “Mabaga Fresh – Tupo Kamili” on the day of their album launch.

Throwback Thursday: Hashim Dogo – I Smoke Emceez

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It is another Thursday, and this one is particularly significant. It marks the first Thursday of the year 2026. Given this occasion, our selection for the Throwback Joint of the week is Triple OG Hashim Rubanza, also known as Hashim Dogo, featuring a track he recorded in 1998 at Bongo Records under the guidance of P Funk Majani.

The song is titled “I Smoke Emceez.” In this piece, the title itself is quite revealing. Hashim begins the track with the phrase, “And here is Little Some Local,” while cleverly mimicking Bob Marley’s hook from “I Shot the Sheriff,” slightly altering it to align with his concept for this joint.

This song consists of four verses; however, today I will only present the first two verses along with the chorus. This is one of the rare and exceptional tracks he has ever produced. For more tracks like this, please visit my social media at Instagram, facebook, reverbnation, tiktok, X, youtube etc @ngomanagwa.

N.B. Special thanks to J4 for sharing this audio.

Listen to the Snippet of “I smoke Emceez” by Hashim Dogo below;

Throwback Thursday | Hard Blasters Crew – Tupo Nyuma.

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As you are aware, it is Thursday once again, and today we are paying
tribute to the 90’s Tanzanian Hip Hop group, The “Hard Blasters Crew”. Our
emphasis today will be on their third and final album, which was
launched in 1999 after being recorded at MJ Records. This achievement
was made possible with the inclusion of Joseph Haule, known as Professor
Jay, who was previously referred to as Nigga J. This album, entitled
“Funga Kazi 2000,” features popular tracks such as “Chemsha Bongo,”
“Mamsap,” and “Chuzi Limekubali.” The entire album was produced by
Ludigo Bishota.

The highlighted track of the day is titled “Tupo Nyuma,” which is also
part of this LP and features contributions from Big Willy and his late nephew LB Geniuz, Fanani and Prof Jay .

In this collaboration, they discuss the challenges of life due to bribery, waste, and unfair favoritism, indicating that the country is heading in a negative direction. To be frank, this track is quite impactful.

Enjoy the snippet of this song below.

Throwback Thursday | Kwanza Unit – Itapobidi.

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Kwanza Unit, commonly referred to as KU, means “First Unit” and was formed in 1993 through the merger of several groups, including the Villain Gangsters, led by the famous rapper Rhymson (also known as Ramadhan A. Mponjika), Riders Posse, Tribe X, and various solo artists.

The founding members of Kwanza Unit consist of Rhymson, KBC (Kiba Cha Singo), D-Rob (Robert Mwingira), Eazy-B (Bernard Luanda), Fresh-G (Godfrey Koshuma), and Y-Tang, among others. Furthermore, there is a wider network of associated individuals known as the Kwanza Unit Foundation or Kwanzanians.

The group’s first album, titled Kwanza Unit, was released in 1994, followed by their second album, Tropical Techniques, in 1996. Their third album, Kwanzanians, was released in 1999, available in both tape and CD formats. The single “Msafiri,” which is part of the third album, Kwanzanians, received significant attention.

Today, our throwback post will highlight the song “Itapobidi,” which features verses from all five members who recorded the first album in 1994. I am sharing a snippet of approximately 2 minutes so you can experience 90’s hip hop music in Tanzania. Enjoy this rare gem recorded at Mawingu Studios, Mwenge Dar-es-salaam, under the production of the legendary DJ and Producer Boniphace Kilosa, also known as DJ Boniluv.

Listen to “Kwanza Unit – Itapobidi (Snippet)” below;

AUDIO | Centona – Tanzania

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Centano’s heartfelt and patriotic composition “Tanzania” honors and provides solace to the people of Tanzania. Released during a period of national grief following the loss of loved ones in this year’s general elections, the song radiates a profound sense of hope, healing, and unity.

Through its moving lyrics and soulful melody, Centano highlights the resilience and strength of the Tanzanian spirit while showing compassion for families who have experienced loss. The song depicts Tanzania as a nation in mourning yet bound together by empathy and brotherhood. It also calls for peace, love, and unity among its citizens.

Watch “Centano – Tanzania” below;

Download MP3;