Tag: Bongo Hip hop

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 | Kayumba – Wanaulizana

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Kayumba is an exceptionally talented RnB artist, composer, and performer from Tanzania, renowned for his velvety vocals and emotive lyrics. His rise to prominence was marked by his victory in Bongo Star Search, establishing him as one of Tanzania’s most promising musical talents. With millions of streams and downloads on Boomplay, Kayumba continues to enchant audiences throughout East Africa and beyond.

On February 25, 2025, he released “Wanaulizana,” an engaging Bongo Flava RnB track that highlights Kayumba’s distinctive melodic voice and profound lyrical themes. The song delves into the complexities of love, heartbreak, and relationships, making it essential listening for RnB enthusiasts.

This track is poised to take over the charts, thanks to its smooth production and memorable chorus that resonates with fans across the region.

Listen to “Kayumba – Wanaulizana” below.

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AUDIO | P Mawenge – Ndo Huyu Sasa

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Tanzanian hip-hop artist Cleophace Yessaya also known as “P Mawenge” has released yet another impressive track titled “Ndo Huyu Sasa.” Renowned for his impactful lyrics, profound narratives, and fluid delivery, P Mawenge reaffirms his status as a leading figure in the rap industry.

As a prominent rapper, writer, and performer from Tanzania, P Mawenge is celebrated for his exceptional storytelling abilities, intricate lyricism, and commanding presence in both Swahili and English. His music reflects authentic life experiences, establishing him as a trusted voice in conscious Hip Hop within East Africa.

The new release, “Ndo Huyu Sasa,” is a compelling Hip Hop piece that highlights P Mawenge’s narrative skills. Produced by 10th Wonder, the track features a powerful beat combined with introspective lyrics, achieving an ideal harmony of lyrical richness and rhythm.

Listen to “P Mawenge – Ndo Huyu Sasa” below;

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AUDIO | FreshBoys – 1 In A Million

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FreshBoys is a dynamic rap collective that is making significant waves in the Tanzanian music scene with their exceptional lyrical skills, innovative rhythms, and compelling narratives. The ensemble features Gran Geezy, Tboy Mill, 10K Degreez, and 6ixToogood, each contributing a unique essence that sets their sound apart in the industry.

On February 23, 2023, they released “1 In A Million,” an energetic and lyrically rich track that highlights the individual talents of each member of FreshBoys. The song conveys themes of determination, resilience, and ambition, rendering it essential listening for all Hip Hop enthusiasts.

Listen to “ FreshBoys – 1 In A Million” below

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THROWBACK | KWANZA UNIT

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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)

AUDIO | Nikki Mbishi Ft Barakah Da Prince – Mipango Ya Pombe

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Nikki Mbishi, originally named Nicas John Marwa Machuche, was born on March 4, 1989, in Dar es Salaam. He stands out as one of Tanzania’s most dynamic and acclaimed Hip-Hop artists. His artistic inclinations span various disciplines, including drawing, circus performances, and music. Nikki’s innate talent for rapping emerged early in his life, characterized by his remarkable ability to memorize lyrics swiftly and inventively. This skill propelled him into rap battles, where he gained recognition as a proficient lyricist. His impact on the Tanzanian Hip-Hop landscape has been significant, and his musical style continues to progress with each new release.

The song “Mipango Ya Pombe,” featuring Barakah Da Prince, serves as a powerful Hip-Hop anthem that explores the cultural and social dynamics of alcohol consumption in Tanzania. This collaboration unites two influential voices, providing a fresh and genuine viewpoint on pressing societal matters. The track combines raw lyrics with a captivating beat, making it essential listening for any Hip-Hop enthusiast.

Listen to “Nikki Mbishi Ft Barakah Da Prince – Mipango Ya Pombe” below.

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AUDIO | Stamina Ft Darasa, Stereo & Young Killer Msodoki – Upeo Wangu

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Stamina Shorwebwenzi, born in 1989 in Morogoro, Tanzania, stands as an iconic figure in the East African hip-hop scene. His unique talent for intertwining profound narratives with compelling rhythms has established him as one of the most esteemed artists in Bongo Flava. Renowned for his insightful lyrics, Stamina has consistently produced chart-topping tracks, amassing millions of streams globally.

The track ‘Upeo Wangu’ represents a dynamic collaboration among some of Tanzania’s finest lyricists Stamina, Darasa, Stereo, and Msodoki. Crafted by producer Mafeeling, this song combines rich lyrical themes with vibrant, high-energy beats, making it essential listening for hip-hop enthusiasts.

Listen and download “Stamina Ft Darasa, Stereo & Msodoki – Upeo Wangu” below.

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AUDIO | Billnass Ft Mbosso – Boda

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Tanzanian rap artist Billnass collaborates with Mbosso in a captivating new track titled “Boda,” produced by S2kizzy and skillfully mixed by Lizer Classic. This latest release seamlessly fuses Bongo Flava elements with rich melodies, offering an exceptional musical experience.

William Nicholaus Lyimo, known professionally as Billnass, stands as one of Tanzania’s most prominent rappers, celebrated for his lyrical talent and knack for producing chart-topping hits. His musical journey has been influenced by iconic figures such as Mangwair, Langa, and Dully Sykes, among others from Tanzania.

Listen to “Billnass Ft Mbosso – Boda” below.

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AUDIO | Bando Mc Ft. Roma Mkatoliki & Maua Sama – Forever

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Bando Mc, a rising star in the Bongo Flava genre from Tanzania, has made a significant comeback with his new release featuring Roma Mkatoliki and Maua Sama, titled “Forever.”

“Forever” is a collaborative effort by Tanzanian artists Bando Mc, Roma Mkatoliki, and Maua Sama. Released today, Feb. 17th 2025, the song has quickly garnered attention for its engaging melody and emotive lyrics.

You can listen to “Bando Ft. Roma Mkatoliki & Maua Sama – Forever” below.

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AUDIO | Nikki Mbishi – Mchuchu Ft Banana Zorro

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Tanzanian hip hop recording artist Nicas Machuche, widely recognized as “Nikki Mbishi” and a prominent member of the Kikosi Kazi hip hop crew, has unveiled an impressive new track titled “Mchuchu.” Enjoy this latest release.

“Mchuchu” is a song by Nikki Mbishi, a notable figure in the Bongo Flava genre, featuring the artist Banana Zorro. This track is included in the album “PLATA O PLOMO,” which presents a fusion of Afrobeat rhythms and modern Tanzanian sounds, highlighting the distinctive styles and musical influences of the artists involved.

You can listen to “Nikki Mbishi – Mchuchu Ft Banana Zorro” below.

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