Tag: Bongo Hip hop

AUDIO | Wakazi – Peke Yake

Webiro Wassira, professionally recognized as “Wakazi,” “Swagga Bovu,” and “Bilingual Beast,” is a prominent Tanzanian recording artist and actor who has once again enthralled his audience with his latest single, “Peke Yake.

This track is part of the album Beberu (Reflections) and serves as a tribute to the history, achievements, and legacy of influential Tanzanians throughout the years. It is not merely a song; it is a celebration of greatness.

The production was handled by Black Beats, while the mixing and mastering were completed by Mujwahuki. The artwork for the single was created by Lizana Bradshaw.

Listen/Stream, “Wakazi – Peke Yake” below;

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AUDIO | Wakazi – Fall Of Roman Empire

Webiro Wassira, known professionally as Wakazi, a Tanzanian recording artist and actor, has once again captivated his audience with his latest hit, “Fall Of Roman Empire.”

The song “Fall of the Roman Empire” by Wakazi is a compelling piece that delves into themes of societal deterioration, resilience, and cultural transformation. Through his thought-provoking lyrics, Wakazi effectively connects historical occurrences with contemporary challenges.

You can listen/Stream “Wakazi – Fall Of Roman Empire” below;

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THROWBACK | AFRO REIGN

Nature P

This Thursday’s throwback group of the week highlights a notable ensemble that significantly influenced the Tanzanian music scene, particularly during the 1990s. Afro Reign, formed in June 1996, consists of Bonny Harmony (born Boniface Kalemera), Dray (born Raymond Mutagahywa), Nature P (born Sebastian Maganga, who balanced his education with hosting a show on Radio One), and Judy (born Judith Wambura, was still persuing her education), who is now recognized as “Lady Jaydee.”

Lady Jaydee

Dray, whose father was a university lecturer, shares a similar educational background with his fellow members. Both Bonny and Dray credit their shift towards hip hop and rap to their enthusiasm for basketball. Dray was formerly associated with Kwanza Unit and currently resides in Johannesburg, South Africa, where he specializes in digital product and program management.

Dray

The group is known for their freestyling abilities, often choosing a theme for improvisation, followed by discussions to enhance their final output. Their debut track, “Afro Drama,” features elements of freestyling, boasting, and self-assertion. In the song “Rejuvenation,” each member delivers a verse.

Bonny Harmony

Afro Reign has recorded at Master J’s studio and collaborated with P-Funk. As none of the members are instrumentalists, they have utilized session musicians for specific recordings, while most of their instrumental backgrounds are sampled from existing rap tracks, in line with traditional rap practices. Their most memorable song, “Saa za Kazi,” features Hashim Rubanza, also known as “Hashim Dogo,” who is fondly referred to as Mwendawazimu anayependa fedha taslimu.

Here are several Audio snippets from Afro Reign:

1. Saa za Kazi featuring Hashim Dogo

2. Rejuvenation

3. Nina Choma (Afro Reign begins with a traditional melody)

VIDEO | Maalim Nash & Black Ninja – Da’awa

Mutalemwa Jason Theobard Mushumbusi, known as Maalim Nash, was born in 1985 and is a prominent Tanzanian artist recognized for his dynamic contributions to the music industry. Originating from Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania, his musical style fuses traditional Swahili elements with modern Afro-Hip Hop, often referred to as Bongo Hip Hop, resulting in a distinctive and engaging sound.

He began his journey in rap music during the 1990s, but it was in 2001 that he gained significant attention with the release of his track “Kisa Cha Mwanafunzi,” featuring Dogo Lecha and the renowned Bongo Flava artist Dully Sykes. The song was produced by Miika Mwamba at FM Studios in Kinondoni.

Today, he has unveiled a new song and video titled “Da’awa,” produced by Black Ninja. This track serves as the lead single for his forthcoming album, “Muziki Wa Spunda,” which is scheduled for release next year.

Experience another exceptional creation from Temeke’s own Nash MC, also known as Maalim Nash.

Maalim Nash & Black Ninja – Da’awa

AUDIO | Country Wizzy Ft Conboi, Msamiati, Moni Centrozone & Teria – Johari Gin (Cypher) 2024

Country Wizzy, whose real name is Ibrahim Ayoub Mandingo, hails from Mikocheni, Dar es Salaam, and is a versatile Tanzanian artist recognized for his roles as a Hip-Hop/RnB recording artist, actor, dancer, and entrepreneur.

The track “Johari Gin (Cypher) 2024,” featuring Country Wizzy alongside Conboi, Msamiati, Moni Centrozone, and Teria, is a powerful hip-hop collaboration. This cypher highlights exceptional lyrical skill, clever wordplay, and a variety of flows, embodying the dynamic and competitive spirit of Tanzanian hip-hop culture.

Stream “Johari Gin (Cypher) video here;

You can listen to “Country Wizzy Ft Conboi, Msamiati, Moni Centrozone & Teria – Johari Gin

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AUDIO | Songa – Knockout

Songa is a musician and rapper from Tanzania, currently residing in Dar es Salaam. He has successfully maintained a level of privacy regarding his personal life, resulting in limited information about his early musical journey and upbringing.

Songa commenced his professional career in Arusha, collaborating with Dash and Chindo on his inaugural EP, Njiani, despite his roots in Singida, Tanzania. He subsequently relocated to Dar es Salaam to further his career. For a significant portion of his journey, Songa operated as an independent artist. Eventually, he signed with Mlab Studios, where he gained access to a management team. During his time at Mlab, he collaborated with the studio’s leadership to establish the Utamaduni music label.

According to Songa, the purpose of Utamaduni was to unite independent artists. In addition to his work with Mlab and Utamaduni, Songa has partnered closely with Wanenene Studios, contributing to some of the most notable hip-hop tracks in the bongo genre. He holds the distinction of being the first artist to record at Wanenene Studios in Arusha. Beyond his rapping abilities, Songa is also recognized as a respected lyricist in Tanzania.

Some of Songa’s popular songs include:

  • Pombe Sio Chai
  • Usiku
  • Mwanga
  • Mwendelezo
  • Enzi za Utoto
  • Sio Lazima
  • Beki Tatu
  • Picha
  • Yule Jamaa

Recently, he released a new track titled “Knockout.

“Knockout” is a dynamic hip-hop song that showcases Songa’s remarkable lyrical prowess and commanding vocal presence. With sharp verses and an invigorating beat, the track reinforces Songa’s position as a significant figure in the Tanzanian rap scene.

Listen to “Songa – Knockout” below;

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Throwback | Hard Blasters Crew

Throwback Joints of the Day

Terry Msiagi – a Hard Blaster

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!

Stream these 3 tracks here:

HBC – Cheka Nao (Snippet) (1994)
HBC – Aje Naua (1996)
HBC – Chemsha Bongo (1999)

DJ MIX | Throwback Bongo Hip Hop Mix December 2024

DJ NGOMANAGWA showcases a vibrant selection of nostalgic Throwback music from Tanzania, emphasizing the core of Bongo Hip Hop, the Tanzanian Hip Hop genre. The majority of the tracks featured in this mix span the years 2009 to 2015.

It is essential to note that none of the content is available for sale; all mixes and performances are intended exclusively for promotional purposes. We value your listening experience and hope you relish the exceptional music!

Stream this 1 hour Mix here:

AUDIO | Izzo Bizness Ft. G Nako – Kubaya

Izzo Bizness and G Nako’s “Kubaya” is a Bongo Flava music piece that debuted in December 2024. This engaging track exemplifies the lively sound of Tanzania, showcasing their distinctive style through a fusion of rhythmic beats and significant lyrics.

“Kubaya” is distinguished by its catchy melody and impactful performance. Immerse yourself in the essence of Bongo Flava music with this enthralling song. Stream or download it today, and be sure to include “Kubaya” in your playlist for continuous enjoyment of the Flava.

Stream the song here:

Download MP3: