Tag: Bongo Flava

AUDIO | Bruce Africa – How Did You

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Bruce Elias Sanane, widely recognized as Bruce Africa, is a gifted singer-songwriter hailing from Tanzania in East Africa. His musical journey commenced at the tender age of seven when he joined a church choir, where his enthusiasm for singing was cultivated. By the age of fifteen, he developed a passion for the guitar, a skill imparted to him by his father, which subsequently became a pivotal aspect of his musical career.

Bruce Africa gained significant recognition after participating in Bongo Star Search (BSS) Season 11 (2019-2020), where he demonstrated his vocal talent and advanced to the semi-finals. He subsequently became a member of Christian Bella’s CBO group, honing his skills before embarking on a solo career in 2022. His breakthrough single “YOU” established his presence in the Bongo Fleva genre, followed by the tracks “In Love” and “Falling Down.”

On March 7, 2025, he released “How Did You,” a captivating bongo flava love ballad that delves into the intricacies of love, heartbreak, and emotional vulnerability. Bruce Africa’s smooth vocals and soulful melodies render this track an immediate favorite among R&B and Bongo Flava enthusiasts.

The song artfully combines profound emotions with exceptional production quality, making it an ideal addition to any playlist. For those who appreciate heartfelt music with compelling narratives, “How Did You” is an essential listen.

Listen to “Bruce Africa – How Did You” below.

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AUDIO | Willy Paul Ft Phina – Inabamba

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Wilson Abubakar Radido “Willy Paul” is a prominent Kenyan artist and songwriter hailing from Nairobi. He serves as the CEO and founder of Saldido International Entertainment. In 2013, he was honored with the title of best male artist of the year at the Groove Awards, sharing the spotlight with his mentor, Gloria Muliro, who received the award for best female artist.

This rising star, gaining increasing recognition for his vocal abilities, has recently released a new song in collaboration with Tanzanian artist Phina, known by her stage name. Their track is titled “Inabamba.”

You may listen to “Willy Paul – Inabamba Ft Phina” below.

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AUDIO | Christian Bella Ft Q Chief – Tetere

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Christian Bella has unveiled his latest single, “Tetere,” which features the acclaimed RnB artist Q Chief. This exciting collaboration combines soothing melodies with engaging rhythms, making it an essential track for music enthusiasts in Tanzania and throughout Africa.

In “Tetere,” Christian Bella and Q Chief demonstrate their lyrical skill and emotional resonance, presenting a song that emphasizes the significance and power of genuine love.

You can listen to “Christian Bella Ft Q Chief – Tetere” below.

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THROWBACK | NIGGAZ II PUBLIC

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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

AUDIO | B2K Mnyama – Inatosha

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Batwely Roita Kinyunyu, widely recognized as B2K Mnyama, is a prominent Tanzanian singer, songwriter, and the founder of Starbeat Music Label. His impact on the Bongo Flava genre has been significant, with numerous hits achieving impressive streaming figures.

“Inatosha,” released on March 4, 2025, is a poignant Bongo Flava song that explores themes of love, resilience, and emotional fortitude. Crafted by the skilled producer Magic and masterfully mixed by Tizo Touch, this track combines soulful melodies with engaging lyrics, quickly becoming a favorite among listeners.

Listen to “B2K Mnyama – Inatosha” below;

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VIDEO | Darassa Ft. Jay Melody – Tulia na Mimi

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Darassa, whose birth name is Sharif Thabit Ramadhan, is a prominent Tanzanian musician who rose to prominence in 2014 with his hit single “Sikati Tamaa,” featuring Ben Pol. Renowned for his distinctive sound and Bongo Fleva genre, he has produced numerous successful tracks, including “Muziki” and “Relax” to name a few.

On March 5, 2025, Darassa released a video for “Tulia na Mimi,” a soulful collaboration with Jay Melody which can be found on his latest Album “Take Away The Pain.” This poignant Bongo Fleva song delves into the intricacies of love and commitment, showcasing Darassa’s signature vocal style alongside Jay Melody’s compelling performance. The Official Visualizer effectively captures the essence of the song, highlighting the raw emotion and intensity that are hallmarks of Darassa’s artistry.

Watch the video “Darassa Ft. Jay Melody – Tulia na Mimi” below;

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AUDIO | Songa – I’m Ready

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Songa is a renowned rapper from Tanzania, distinguished for his profound lyrics, powerful delivery, and genuine storytelling. Originating from Singida, Songa has ascended to become one of the leading figures in Tanzania’s Hip-Hop scene, skillfully merging traditional rap with contemporary Bongo Hip-Hop influences.

“I’m Ready” is a compelling track filled with intricate lyrics from Songa’s latest album, HAKUNA MATAATAA which was officially released March 1st 2025. Produced by Calidro at BFG Studio, located in Bahari Beach, this song highlights Songa’s exceptional storytelling ability, incisive bars, and unparalleled performance.

Featuring a combination of impactful beats and authentic life experiences, “I’m Ready” is essential listening for enthusiasts of genuine Tanzanian Hip-Hop.

Listen to “Songa – I’m Ready” below.

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THROWBACK | THA DE-PLOW-MA-TZ

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It is another Thursday, and we are pleased to present this week’s Throwback Thursday feature. Today, we will discuss two initial singles from the group that significantly influenced the youth in Tanzania.

DPT stands for “De-Plow-Ma-Tz.” The ensemble consists of “Saigon Treach” ( Saleeh Mzee), “Balozi Dola Soul” (Ahmed Dola), “Trip Dogg” ( Philip Mwimanzi), “Stiggo” (Stiggo Mwamba), and “Storm” ( Amour Shamte). Additionally, the DPT family includes manager and organizer Ngwessa.

The origins of DPT date back to 1992 when Saigon, Stiggo, and Trip Dogg met at Tambaza Secondary School and began rapping for enjoyment. Over the years, various individuals have joined DPT for varying lengths of time. Saigon encountered Dola Soul in Lagos, Nigeria, where their families resided. As suggested by the name, the core members of DPT are sons of Tanzanian diplomats, who have provided them with considerable support.

Today, we will focus on their first single, which did not appear on their debut album, “Tha De-Plow-Ma-Tz.” The track, titled “Word is Born,” was recorded at Soundcrafter Temeke Studios (1996) and served as the group’s introduction, featuring members who were primarily students at Tambaza Secondary School. The second single, “Turuke Kwa Furaha,” was included in the album.

Please listen to these two songs below.

Tha De-Plow-Ma-Tz – Word Is Born (Snippet)

Tha De-Plow-Ma-Tz – Turuke Kwa Furaha.

N.B: Special Thanks to Jumanne Thomas and Balozi Dola Soul for the audio clips and artwork/photos.

AUDIO | AUDIO | Abigail Chams Ft Harmonize – Me Too

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Abigail Chamungwana, popularly known as Abby Chams, is a versatile Tanzanian artist recognized for her talents as a singer, instrumentalist, and songwriter, currently signed with Sony Music Entertainment East Africa Limited. A child prodigy, she demonstrated exceptional skills in playing the piano, violin, and guitar from an early age, establishing herself as one of the most promising young musicians in Africa.

The track “Me Too” stands out as a remarkable Bongo Flava hit, showcasing Abby Chams’ enchanting vocals alongside Harmonize’s distinctive Afro-Bongo style. Released on February 27, 2025, this song beautifully intertwines themes of love and emotion with smooth melodies.

Produced by Sony Music Entertainment East Africa Limited, this track embodies the spirit of contemporary Tanzanian music, making it essential listening for enthusiasts of Bongo Flava.

Listen to “Abigail Chams Ft Harmonize – Me too” below;

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AUDIO | Kusah – Ukiniita

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Kusah, whose real name is Salmin Ismail Hoza, is an emerging Tanzanian singer-songwriter who is gaining significant recognition in the Bongo Flava genre. With popular tracks such as “I Wish,” “X,” and “Pain Killer,” he has rapidly become a prominent figure in East African music. His poignant lyrics, melodious tunes, and enchanting voice have positioned him as one of the most in-demand artists this year.

His latest release, “Ukiniita,” debuted on February 25, 2025. This Bongo Flava love song intricately weaves profound emotions with soulful melodies, highlighting Kusah’s lyrical prowess and distinctive romantic narrative style.

Produced by Cukie Daddy, the song offers an alluring Afro-pop sound, making it essential listening for fans of Bongo Flava. With its smooth rhythm and relatable lyrics, “Ukiniita” is poised to become a significant hit throughout Tanzania and beyond.

Listen to “Kusah – Ukiniita” below;

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