Tag: Bongo Hip hop

AUDIO | Dwin Ft. Freshboys – Moyo

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Dwin, an emerging talent in Tanzanian Hip Hop, has developed a distinctive style that distinguishes him within the rap scene. His freestyle debut, “Unyama,” quickly gained viral popularity, followed by the successful track “Niongezee,” which firmly established his presence in the industry. Through various collaborations, Dwin’s unique sound has positioned him as one of the most in-demand artists in Bongo Flava.

“Moyo” is a profoundly expressive fusion of Hip Hop and Bongo Flava, featuring Dwin and Freshboys, who combine smooth melodies with impactful lyrics. The song narrates a compelling tale of love and desire, set against vibrant beats that contribute to its immediate appeal. Released on March 11, 2025, this track highlights exceptional production by Mnyamwengatz and Ghost Hand Beatz, with final mixing and mastering by Producer Randu.

Listen to “Dwin Ft. Freshboys – Moyo” below:

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AUDIO | Lomodo – Why

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Lomodo is a gifted singer and songwriter from Tanzania, celebrated for his emotive melodies and poignant lyrics. His hit single, “Nje Ya Ndoto,” established his reputation within the Bongo Flava genre, propelling him to become one of the most streamed artists on various digital platforms.

Released on March 12, 2025, “Why” is an evocative Bongo Flava ballad produced by Kimambo, renowned for his exceptional sound quality. The track delves into themes of love, heartbreak, and emotional turmoil, all delivered through Lomodo’s distinctive smooth vocals.

You can listen to “Lomodo – Why” below;

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THROWBACK | NIITE MR II LP (1998)

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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

AUDIO | Khaligraph Jones Ft Jakk Quill, Ruyonga, Fresh like Uhh, Dyana Cods, Mex Cortez & Abbas Kubaff – Khali Cartel 5

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The moment fans have been eagerly awaiting has arrived! The renowned Kenyan rapper Khaligraph Jones has released the much-anticipated Khali Cartel 5, uniting a selection of the most distinguished and talented rappers from the East African region. This dynamic cypher, brought to you by Blu Ink Corp and 22Bet, features an impressive roster, including Jakk Quill, Ruyonga, Fresh Like Uhh, Dyana Cods, Mex Cortez, and Abbas Kubaff.

The Khali Cartel series has consistently highlighted lyrical excellence, and Khali Cartel 5 elevates this tradition with a varied ensemble of rap talents from East Africa:

Kenya: Khaligraph Jones, Abbas Kubaff, Dyana Cods  
Uganda: Jakk Quill, Ruyonga  
Tanzania: Fresh Like Uhh, Mex Cortez

With each artist showcasing their individual style, delivery, and narrative flair, this edition stands as a definitive hip-hop masterpiece that honors the rap culture of the region.

Watch Video “Khaligraph Jones Ft Jakk Quill, Ruyonga, Fresh Like Uhh, Dyana Cods, Mex Cortez, and Abbas Kubaff – Khali Cartel 5” below;

Listen to “Khaligraph Jones Ft Jakk Quill, Ruyonga, Fresh Like Uhh, Dyana Cods, Mex Cortez, and Abbas Kubaff – Khali Cartel 5” 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

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 | 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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