Tag: Bongo 90s

Throwback Thursday | Tha De-Plow-Ma-TZ – Two of the Kind.

Indeed, it is yet another Thursday, and as you are already aware, it is time for this week’s Throwback 🔙 Joint.

Today, we will be highlighting the group THA DE-PLOW-MA-TZ and their track TWO OF THE KIND, which was recorded and released in 1997.

This song was produced by John Mahundi, who also contributes to the hook with his harmonization. This track marks the first collaboration with John Mahundi, who later gained recognition for producing numerous works for King Crazy GK and the East Coast team.

In the song “Two of the Kind,” only two members of the group Tha De-Plow-Ma-TZ are featured, namely Saigon and Balozi Dola.

Enjoy this rare gem 💎 and remember to check out social media platforms for more music and similar posts. Stay tuned.

Listen to Two of the kind (snippet) by Tha Deplowmatz below;

Throwback Thursday | Hard Blasters Crew – Cheka Nao

Tuff Jam

It is yet another Thursday, and as per our tradition, we are set to present the joint of the week. Today, our attention will be directed towards a group originating from Upanga, Dar-es-salaam, Tanzania, known as Hard Blasters Crew.

This ensemble, Hard Blaster Crew, released a track titled “Cheka Nao” in 1994, featured on their album Mambo Ya Mjini. In this LP there were songs like “Mabishoo“, “Matapeli“, “Ni Hard Blasters” and many more. “Cheka Nao” was crafted by the renowned DJ and producer Boniluv at Mawingu Studios.

Here, we present a verse from the one and only member of the group, recognized for his Chopper Style of Rapping (Tongue Twist), akin to MR Chip FU from the group Fu-schnickens. His name is Gabriel Kilunga , also known as Tuff Jam.

Special thanks to Jumanne Thomas for the audio.

Enjoy this rare gem below ⬇️ and don’t forget to follow us on our social media pages on every platforms 💎 🔥🔥💥💥💯💯💯

Cheka Nao (Snippet)

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;

Throwback | Hard Blasters Crew – Kubwa Kuliko Ft Mr Teacher

It is Thursday once more, and today we are honoring the 90’s Tanzanian Hip Hop ensemble, The Hard Blasters Crew. Our focus today will be on their third and final album, which was released in 1999 after being recorded at MJ Records. This was possible after the addition of Joseph Haule, known as Professor Jay, who was formerly referred to as Nigga J. This album, titled “Funga Kazi 2000,” included well-known tracks such as “Chemsha Bongo,” “Mamsap,” and “Chuzi Limekubali.” The entire album was produced by Ludigo Bishota.

The featured track of the day is called “Kubwa Kuliko,” which is also part of this LP and includes contributions from Prof Jay’s older brother, Julius Haule, also known as “Mr Teacher.” In this collaboration, they address detractors and those who envy their achievements, asserting that this track is a heavyweight. Enjoy the snippet of this song below.

Hard Blasters Crew – Funga Kazi (Snippet) Ft Mr Teacher

THROWBACK | Sos B – Ikibidivyo

It’s another Thursday, and before we commence the weekend tomorrow, let us enjoy the “Throwback Thursday Joint of the Day.”

The featured track for June 19th, 2025, is by one of Tanzania’s rap pioneers, Sosthenes Ambakisye, widely known as Sosy B, showcasing his song “Ikidivyo.”

This specific track is notable as one of the few occasions where he performs the entire piece solo, meaning he executed both the hook and all the verses, demonstrating his lyrical versatility. The recording was produced at MJ Studios, under the direction of Joachim Kimaryo, also known as Master J. Enjoy this exceptional track, and wishing everyone at ngomanagwa.com a wonderful weekend. Thank you for your unwavering support.

Sos B has had hits such as “Kukuru Kakara zako (KKZ),” “For You,” “Saturday,” and more.

Listen to a snippet of “Ikibidivyo” below;


THROWBACK: The Legendary DJ & Producer “Boniluv”

Boniface Kilosa, commonly known as BoniLuv, and also referred to as Papa Luv or Scratch Master, is a prominent DJ from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. He has been instrumental in the evolution of the DJ and music production landscape in Tanzania, especially during his time at Mawingu Disco Tech and Studios in the 1980s and throughout the 1990s.

BoniLuv’s enthusiasm for music began in his adolescence, prompting him to hone his DJ abilities in various clubs and hotels throughout Dar es Salaam. He furthered his knowledge in music production and sound engineering during his time in the UK and the US. At Mawingu Studios, he not only records music for a variety of artists but also produces commercial advertisements.

He credits his success to the support he received from his peers at Clouds FM radio station, where he held the roles of director and presenter for many years.

Throughout his career, BoniLuv has developed a wide-ranging skill set that encompasses music production, sound engineering, DJing, and the design of commercial advertisements. He has also gained expertise in music programming and possesses an extensive understanding of the music industry. 2K Mawingu Studios has been responsible for producing records for numerous artists, including Mwanafalsafa, Manduli Mob, Crazy GK, Solid Ground Family, AY, Lady Jay Dee, Bizman of InAfrika Band, Bambo, RD, Mister Ebbo, Kasiri, JLT, and many others.

In the early 1990s, him and his colleagues at Mawingu Studios in Mwenge, Dar es Salaam, recorded their first album titled “The Clouds – Msela,” which was released in 1994. The album featured major hits, including the title track “Msela” and “Siamini.” BoniLuv also played a significant role in promoting several artists, such as Hard Blasters, GWM, Gangwe Mob, Dar Young Mob, Unique Sisters, Ugly Faces, Grazy GK, and Professor Jay, who was then known as Nigga Jay. Additionally, he had the chance to collaborate with Ngomanagwa, formerly known as Taff B, who recorded a track at these iconic studios.

BoniLuv’s favorite artist is the late Bob Marley, and he encourages aspiring musicians to approach their craft with seriousness and dedication.

Explore a selection of past works produced by “DJ Boniluv” below.

The Clouds – Msela Album (1994)

Hard Blasters – Mabishoo “Snippet” (1994)

Kwanza Unit – Tucheze “Snippet” ( 1994)

GWM – Cheza Mbali na Kasheshe “Snippet (1995)

Nigga J (Prof jay) & Taff B (Ngomanagwa) – Fascinating Rhymes (1997)

Crazy G.K Ft Carola Kinasha – Upanga East Coast West Coast “Snippet”(1996)

Gangwe Mobb – Chelea Pina (Live Version) “Snippet” (1996)

THROWBACK | NIITE MR II LP (1998)

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

THROWBACK | NIGGAZ II PUBLIC

N2P Live Performace (1995)

Another Thursday has arrived, presenting an opportunity to reflect on a notable group from Kurasini, Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. Niggaz II Public (N2P) was a prominent hip-hop ensemble that achieved significant success during the 1990s.

Kayson Ngessa a.k.a K Bass (Leader of the group)

The group comprised three members: K Bass, G Buffa, and Diz Nigga. Their hit “Fikiri Chini” made a substantial impact on Radio One Stereo in 1996. This FM station was the first to feature Youngstaz music and hosted a dedicated one-hour segment led by Mike Mhagama and Taji Liundi.

Mike Mhagama
Taji Liundi

In addition to their earlier success, N2P released another widely recognized track titled “Lazima Ukubali” in 1997, which was recorded at Sound Crafters Studios in Temeke.

Furthermore, in 2001, N2P collaborated with Q Chief on a track named “Na Bado.”

Please find a sample of these two rare gems below.

N2P – Fikiri Chini (Snippet)

N2P – Lazima Ukubali

THROWBACK | KWANZA UNIT

Kwanza Unit, abbreviated as KU, translates to “First Unit” and was established in 1993 through the amalgamation of various groups, including the Villain Gangsters led by the renowned rapper Rhymson (also known as Ramadhan A. Mponjika), Riders Posse, Tribe X, along with several solo artists.

The founding members of Kwanza Unit include Rhymson, KBC (Kiba Cha Singo), D-Rob (Robert Mwingira), Eazy-B (Bernard Luanda), Emmam Abbas (Abbas Maunda), Fresh-G (Godfrey Koshuma), and Y-Tang, among others. Additionally, there exists a broader network of affiliated individuals known as the Kwanza Unit Foundation or Kwanzanians.

Kwanza Unit attained international recognition, performing on two occasions in Nairobi, Kenya, and receiving an invitation to Nigeria in 1998, which they were unable to accept due to unforeseen circumstances.

The group’s debut album, self-titled Kwanza Unit, was released in 1994, followed by their second album, Tropical Techniques, 1996. Their third album, Kwanzanians, was launched in 1999, available in both tape and CD formats. The single “Msafiri,” featured on the third album, Kwanzanians, gained notable attention.

Although Kwanza Unit has since disbanded, several former members continue to pursue solo music careers. The new generation emerging from the Kwanza Unit lineage includes artists such as One the Incredible and Khalid Kumbuka.

Notable members of Kwanza Unit included:

  • Chief Rhymson (Ramadhan A. Mponjika)
  • KBC (Kiba Cha Singo)
  • D-Rob (Robert Mwingira) – deceased in 2002
  • Eazy-B (Bernard Luanda)
  • Bugzy Malone (Esrom Margat)
  • Papa Sav (Makanga Lugoe)
  • Abbas Maunda
  • Baraka
  • Ndoti Mwingira
  • Fresh-G
  • Y-Thang
  • Gaddy Groove
  • Adili Kumbuka – deceased in 1994

Explore a selection of samples from the three albums they released below;.

1.Kwanza Unit LP

Kwanza Unit – Amani (Snippet)

Kwanza Unit – Wataka Huku (Snippet)

2.Tropical Tekniqs LP

Kwanza Unit – Nata

Kwanza Unit – Dedication (To the late Adili) (Snippet)

3. Kwanzanians LP

Kwanza Unit – Msafiri (Snippet)

Kwanza Unit – Run Tings Remix (Snippet)

THROWBACK | Mr Paul

Mussa Tagalile & Paul Mbenna

Paul Mbena, known by his stage name Mr. Paul, began his musical career as a member of the R&B group 4 Krewz Flava, which comprises three individuals all born in 1975. This trio draws inspiration from the renowned group Boyz II Men and is particularly noted for their a cappella renditions of R&B and blues music. The members include Paul Mbena from the Songea Region, Mussa Tagalile from Southern Tanzania, and Abdul Kitenge from Tanga.

Mr Paul

Founded in 1995, 4 Krewz Flava used to performed at nightclubs, beauty pageants, and fundraising events, primarily delivering their music in English. The group claims to have been the only ensemble of its kind in Tanzania during the 1990s. They recorded several songs together before Mr. Paul embarked on a solo career.

Da 4 Krewz Flava Concert Flyer. Special Thanks to (Jumanne Thomas) for this photo.

One of Mr. Paul’s initial solo projects after the dissolution of his group was “Mpenzi Njoo.” In 1998, he released “Gozi Gozi” as a single track under MJ Records, produced by Master J, which garnered considerable success and received extensive airplay across the nation. In 2002, he introduced another hit song, “Buzi,” featuring Inspectah Haroun and produced by P Funk Majani at Bongo Records. That same year, he launched his debut album, “Ndani ya Love,” which includes notable tracks such as “Zuwena,” “Chocolate,” “Nakuzimia,” “Kigugumizia” among others. Presently, Mr Paul resides in Melbourne, Australia with his family and continues to participate in music on occasion.

Check the Cassette Cover of the Album “Ndani Ya Love” below;

Regarding Mussa, he is active as a digital creator and collaborates with SAGCOT in the agricultural sector. After the group’s dissolution, Mussa worked at the television station “I.T.V” under I.P.P Media. The third member, Abdul Kitenge, unfortunately, has an unclear current status, and his activities remain unknown.

Mussa Tagalile

Here is a segment of A capella performed by Paul and Mussa as “4 Kreuz Flava”.

Mr Paul – Mpenzi Njoo (Snippet) “Special Thanks to Jumanne Thomas for this Audio

Mr Paul – Gozi Gozi

Mr Paul Ft. Inspectah Haroun – Buzi