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It is once again Friday, and we are delighted to share today’s Throwback Thursday selection. This time, we shine a spotlight on the Tanzanian Bongo Flava ensemble, Uswahilini Matola, and their track “Zakaria,” which features contributions from Prince Dully Sykes. “Zakaria,” the title song of their album, is the second single released after the highly successful “Kosa La Marehemu,” which marked a major achievement for the group in the early 2000s. We invite you to relish this nostalgic musical experience.
Listen to “Zakaria” and “Kosa La Marehemu”
Uswahilini Matola – Kosa La MarehemuUswahilini Matola Ft Dully Sykes – Zakaria
G.W.M stands for Gangstas With Matatizo also Known as Mazimwi, with the term “matatizo” being Swahili for problems. Attempting to embody the persona of a U.S.-style gangsta rapper in Dar es Salaam certainly presents its challenges. Nevertheless, G.W.M remained committed to reality rap, exclusively in Swahili, addressing the everyday struggles faced in the streets of Bongo, a colloquial name for the city of Dar-es-salaam that implies the necessity of intelligence for survival, as “bongo” translates to smart or clever in Swahili.
We compose our own lyrics and tackle societal issues. It is crucial to express perspectives that diverge from the official government narrative, as stated by K.R, one third member of the group.
The group consists of three members: D CHIEF (real name Robert E. Makala) EASY DOPE (real name Richard Makala), the elder brother of D Chief K.R. Mullah (real name Rashid Ziada)
The Makala brothers began their rapping journey in 1993 while still in secondary school. Their father, Edward Makala, was a distinguished authority on traditional music in Tanzania. K.R. joined the duo in 1995, the same year they triumphed in a talent competition organized by Don Bosco, a studio owner in Dar. This victory provided them with the opportunity to record several songs with the support of a well-known group, which gained considerable popularity.
In 1997, G.W.M performed at couple of paid events, a commendable achievement for a rap group in Dar. Their primary audience consists of secondary school, college, and university students, a demographic shared by many other rap groups in the area.
Furthermore, GWM secured a contract with Mawingu Studios and started to record their full-length cassette. Their track “Yamenikuta” became a hit in November 1997, addressing the issues they observe in the streets of Dar that trouble them. This song features Tanzanian rap pioneer Joseph Mbilinyi, also known as Sugu or Mr II. “Yamenikuta” translates to “It bothers me.” They later on released they album titled ” Mikosi”
GWM has also released popular tracks such as “Cheza Mbali na Kasheshe,” “Haya Twende,” “Kipe Kitu,” “Mguu nje mguu ndani” featuring Balozi Dola Soul, and “Watapatapa,” among others.
Enjoy these three excerpts from GWM’s classic songs;
G.W.M – Haya Twende (Snippet);
G.W.M – Kipe Kitu (Snippet);
G.W.M Ft. Mr II – Yamenikuta (Full Track);
Special Thanks to Jumanne Thomas of http://www.africanhiphop.com for sharing some of the Audio Clips for this Post.
Gigy Money, a Tanzanian artist, singer, and social media personality, gained fame through her 2017 release of “Papa.” Her latest release collabo with “Crimmy“, “Nalalaje?“, features Bongo Flava music and captures the spirit of Tanzanian nightlife. The catchy melody and compelling performance make it an enthralling addition to the genre.
Enjoy “Gigy Money Ft Crimmy – Nalalaje?” Video below;
Bando, a hip-hop recording artist hailing from Tanzania, has unveiled a new track titled “Mwanangu,” featuring Maby. In this song, he reflects on the responsibilities and efforts of fathers in caring for their children.
Faustina Charles Mfinanga, better known by her stage name Nandy, is a prominent Tanzanian singer, songwriter, and actress. Born on November 9, 1992, she has enchanted audiences with her remarkable talent and artistic range.
Renowned for her chart-topping songs and dynamic performances, Nandy is firmly establishing herself as one of Tanzania’s most esteemed entertainers. One of her standout pieces is the widely acclaimed song “Mlete,” which highlights her distinctive style and vocal abilities.
Big Willy – a member of Hard Blasters Crew Cassette Cover “Funga Kazi 2000”
It’s Thursday again, and today we’re celebrating the 90’s Tanzanian Hip Hop group, The Hard Blasters Crew. The group originally had five members: Terry Msiagi (Luna T aka Fanani), William Shundi (Big Willie aka Crazy One), Ngida Raphael (KC1), Gabriel Kilunga (Tuff Jam), and Frank Korassa (Trigger F).
In 1994, they participated in the Yo Rap Bonanza Competition and came in second place. This success led them to release their first album, “Mambo Ya Mjini,” which featured popular songs like “Matapeli,” “Cheka nao,” “Mabishoo,” and “Ni Hard Blasters.” The album was a hit, prompting them to work on a second one in 1996. However, during the production, three members left the group to focus on school or pursue opportunities abroad, while others took over family businesses. Despite the challenges, they completed the album titled “Blast Nuff,” which included tracks like “Aje Naua,” “Kwenye Rap,” and “Blast Nuff.”
Their final album came after they added Joseph Haule, also known as Professor Jay, who was previously called Nigga J. This album, “Funga Kazi 2000,” featured popular songs such as “Chemsha Bongo,” “Mamsap,” and “Chuzi Limekubali.” To celebrate this throwback, I’m sharing one song from each album. Enjoy!
Shariff Thabit Ramadhan, known by his stage name Darassa, is a celebrated Tanzanian Bongo Flava artist. Born on September 3, 1988, in Dar es Salaam, Darassa has become a key figure in the genre, known for his engaging lyrics and vibrant beats. His latest single, “My Time”, stands as an anthem to the hustle and success, celebrating the fulfillment that comes with hard work and determination.
Produced by Abbah Process, My Time embodies Darassa’s signature style of storytelling, where he highlights the value of perseverance and the joy of enjoying the rewards of one’s labor. The track resonates deeply with fans who connect to the theme of working hard and relishing in the accomplishments that come with it.
Stamina Shorwebwenzi, a prominent figure in the Tanzanian Hip Hop scene and an essential part of the Rostam collective, has released an exhilarating new single entitled “Msanii Bora Wa HipHop (Remix).” This dynamic track boasts an impressive ensemble of artists, including Nacha, Riderman, Manengo, and B Face, highlighting the collective talent and vibrancy of these leading musicians.
The track “Msanii Bora Wa HipHop (Remix)” serves as the inaugural piece from Stamina’s newest album, designed to showcase his commitment to the Hip Hop genre and reinforce his status as a significant figure in African Hip Hop. Featuring powerful lyrics, energetic rhythms, and engaging collaborations, this remix is poised to create a significant impact within the music industry.
Listen to “Msanii Bora Wa HipHop (Remix)” and experience the collaboration of these prominent Hip Hop artists. Be sure to engage with this anthem—share your opinions and participate in the discussion! ENJOY!
NGOMANAGWA 