Indeed, it is once again Thursday, and as you are already aware, it is
time for this week’s Throwback Joint. Our focus will be on a member of a
rap and hip hop group from Tanzania who achieved significant success in
the 1990s. This artist is known by the stage name Balozi Dola Soul,
also referred to as (Balozi Wenu) “Dolasoul“

Balozi Dola Soul, born “Ahmed Dola,” began his career while he was a
student in Nigeria. He was raised in a family that prioritized
education, viewing it as the key to a better life. Initially, rapping
was merely a fun activity and not perceived as a potential career. After
completing his studies in the UK, Balozi returned to Tanzania and
pursued a career as a hip hop artist.

Upon his return to Tanzania, Balozi became a member of the rap group Tha
De-Plow-Ma-TZ, which included other members who were sons of Tanzanian
diplomats. DPT stands for Tha De-Plow-MaTZ. Alongside Balozi Dola, the
group featured Saigon Treach, born “Saleeh Mzee,” Trip Dogg, whose real
name is “Philip Mwimanzi,” and Storm, known as “Amour Shamte.” The group
released their debut self-titled LP in 1997 and was recognized as the
best rap group in Tanzania in 1999.

The Throwback Joint from Balozi marks his initial solo project outside
of the group. The song, titled “Nani Na Nani,” poses the question to
fans and the masses, “Nani na nani yupo kwenye fani hii, nauliza nani na
nani?,Essentially asking, “Who’s running the rap scene?” The song
gained popularity on radio stations such as Radio One Stereo, CTN
Radio, and Radio Free Africa, among others. It was released in 1999.

Balozi released his solo LP in 2002, titled Ubalozini. The album
featured a variety of hits, including “Kwenye Chati,” “Dini na Dunia Ft
Afande Sele,” and “Homa ya Jiji Ft Immam Abbas, Mac D & Inspectah
Haroun.”

Enjoy “Nani na Nani by Balozi Dola Soul” below;