Tag: Afrosounds

Throwback Thursday | Hard Blasters Crew – Tupo Nyuma.

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.

AUDIO | Centona – Tanzania

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;

AUDIO | Diamond Platnumz – Sasampa Ft. Focalistic X Uncool MC X Silas Africa X Xduppy

Naseeb Abdul Juma Issack, widely recognized as Diamond Platnumz, is a prominent Tanzanian artist, showcasing his talents as a singer, songwriter, dancer, and entrepreneur. He emerged from the streets of Tandale to establish himself as one of Africa’s leading music export brands. As the founder and CEO of WCB Wasafi, his musical repertoire encompasses Bongo Flava, Afro-pop, Afrobeats, R&B, and more.

In the track “Sasampa,” Diamond Platnumz presents a vibrant, cross-continental collaboration that connects the musical styles of East and South Africa. This song features contributions from Focalistic, Uncool MC, Silas Africa, and Xduppy, and is already being categorized under Amapiano, indicating a direction that is friendly to dancefloors and clubs.

The term “Sasampa” in Swahili slang translates to “Hela“, “Pesa“, or “Money” (particularly in the context of wealth or abundance). The song is unapologetically celebratory, with “Sasampa” signifying “money overflowing.”

The lyrics inspire listeners to invest, express love, and enjoy life, emphasizing that if one wishes to indulge, for instance, “kama unataka warembo tia hela, usipeleke maua,” then demonstrating real wealth is the essential language to communicate.

You can listen to “Diamond Platnumz – Sasampa ft. Focalistic, Uncool MC, Silas Africa & Xduppy” below;

Download MP3:

AUDIO | Msodoki Young Killer – Sayansi Ft Belle 9

Msodoki Young Killer, who was born and raised in Tanzania, is a notable figure in the East African music industry, recognized for his powerful voice and street-smart lyrical approach.

Rising from the hip-hop and Bongo Flava scenes in Dar es Salaam, he earned acclaim through collaborations that fused rap, melody, and social commentary, establishing himself as one of the vibrant storytellers in Tanzanian hip-hop.

In his song “Sayansi” featuring “Belle 9“, Msodoki delves into the intricate emotional landscape of relationships: the feelings of disappointment, trust issues, and the desire to give love another opportunity, even when everything your partner says begins to sound like mere “sweet talk.” He employs the metaphor of science, or “sayansi,” to illustrate how women, love, and emotions can seem as complex as formulas that need to be unraveled.

You can listen to “Msodoki Young Killer – Sayansi Ft. Belle 9” below;

Download MP3:

AUDIO | Roma Mkatoliki Ft. Abiud – Teremsha Bunduki

Ibrahim Mussa, widely recognized by his stage name Roma Mkatoliki, is a rapper and activist from Tanzania, hailing originally from Tanga and currently residing in Dar es Salaam. He has made a name for himself by fusing socially-aware lyrics with the raw energy of hip-hop, and his public image has been influenced by both his musical endeavors and his activism.

In the song “Teremsha Bunduki“, Roma Mkatoliki collaborates with Abiud to deliver a powerful track that employs vivid imagery to delve into themes of resistance, survival, and the burdens of living under pressure. Although the term “bunduki” (which translates to “gun” in Swahili) is used literally, its application in this context conveys a deeper symbolism, representing power, threat, and the ways in which individuals strive to be acknowledged or heard.

You can listen to “Roma Mkatoliki Ft. Abiud – Teremsha Bunduki” below;

Download MP3:

AUDIO | ZAiiD Ft Ndaro – Vitoto Vya 2000

Tanzanian rapper ZAiiD has made a comeback with a new song titled “Vitoto Vya 2000“, featuring the well-known comedian Ndaro, and it is already generating excitement on social media.

What distinguishes this track is its distinctive blend of hip hop and Catholic choir (kwaya) melodies, providing listeners with a refreshing yet nostalgic experience.

Vitoto Vya 2000” transcends the conventional boundaries of bongo hip hop. ZAiiD adeptly merges Catholic kwaya-style harmonies with contemporary rap flows, while Ndaro’s witty lyrical input introduces a playful and relatable element to the theme. The melody of the track evokes the ambiance of a Sunday mass — yet the beat and lyrics maintain a streetwise and modern feel.

Listen to “ZAiiD Ft Ndaro – Vitoto Vya 2000” below;

Download MP3:

Throwback Thursday | Soggy Doggy Anter – Sauti Ya Ghetto Ft Drez Chief & Jos Mtambo

It is yet another Thursday, and as per our tradition, we present a throwback track of the day. This week, our attention is directed towards my friend and family member, Anselm Ngaiza, widely recognized as Soggy Doggy Anter. Today, our focus takes us back to 1999, from his album titled Bongo New York, which features a song named “Sauti ya Ghetto“.

In this track, Soggy collaborated with Drez Chief from the group BDP Kamili, representing Kinondoni, and Jos Mtambo from Kigamboni, Dar-es-salaam. The phrase Sauti ya Ghetto is a Swahili term that translates to “Ghetto Sound.” The album also includes other well-known songs such as “I Love You Too” featuring Unique Sisters, “Kifo” featuring the late legend Dr. Remmy Ongala, among others.

The song consists of three verses, with each artist taking turns to deliver their verses, showcasing various rapping styles, metaphors, and lyrical patterns. Upon its release, this song received significant airtime on all FM radio stations in Tanzania.

Listen to “Soggy Doggy Anter – Sauti Ya Ghetto featuring Drez Chief and Jos Mtambo” below;

AUDIO | Diamond Platnumz – Msumari

Naseeb Abdul Juma Issack, widely recognized as Diamond Platnumz, is a prominent Tanzanian Bongo Flava artist, dancer, philanthropist, and entrepreneur.

His track “Msumari” serves as a poignant Bongo Flava love anthem that explores the profound themes of commitment, loyalty, and trust.

Featuring emotional lyrics and an unforgettable hook, Diamond urges couples to solidify their connection by “nailing it down with a hammer,” thereby safeguarding their relationship against jealousy, uncertainty, and external distractions. The song artfully combines heartfelt narratives with the smooth rhythms characteristic of Bongo Flava, illustrating why Diamond remains a leading figure in the East African music industry.

Listen to “Diamond Platnumz – Msumari” below;

Download MP3:

AUDIO | Rapcha – Lissa 3

Cosmas Paul Mfoy, widely recognized by his stage name Rapcha, is among the emerging talents in Tanzania, renowned for creating music that resonates profoundly with the soul.
Born on September 23, 1999, in Shinyanga, Rapcha has gradually established himself as a talented songwriter, rapper, and performer whose sound deeply connects with audiences throughout East Africa.

His most recent release, “Lissa 3,” is a compelling single that dominates the airwaves and solidifies his status as one of the most promising figures in the Bongo Flava and hip-hop genres. With genuine emotion, incisive lyricism, and refined production, Rapcha presents a track that is both engaging and significant, mirroring his experiences and resilience amid personal loss and adversity.

More than merely a song, “Lissa 3” highlights Rapcha’s skill in merging narrative with rhythm, making it a remarkable addition to his expanding repertoire. It is unsurprising that the track has rapidly gained popularity online, igniting discussions and receiving acclaim from both fans and critics.

Listen to “Rapcha – Lissa 3” below;

Download MP3:

AUDIO | Nandy Ft. Jux – Sweety

Faustina Charles Mfinanga, widely recognized as Nandy, is a renowned Tanzanian singer, songwriter, and actress who was born and raised in Moshi, Kilimanjaro. She collaborates with Juma Mussa Mkambala, known as Jux, another Tanzanian singer and songwriter, on a new romantic single titled “Sweety.”

This track serves as a smooth and heartfelt love anthem, combining poignant lyrics with delightful melodies that beautifully reflect the chemistry between these two exceptional artists.

With “Sweety,” Nandy and Jux once again demonstrate their unparalleled artistry, presenting a timeless collaboration that fans throughout East Africa and beyond are sure to cherish. Their soulful voices blend effortlessly, making this song an essential listen for enthusiasts of romantic and emotional music.

Listen to “Nandy Ft. Jux – Sweety” below;

Download MP3: