Tag: Bongo Hip hop

ALBUM | Darassa – Take Away The Pain

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Darassa, whose real name is Sharif Thabit/Thabeet Ramadhan, is a prominent Tanzanian rapper and songwriter celebrated for his exceptional musical abilities and impactful collaborations. His musical career commenced in 2014 with the debut of his first track, ‘Sikati Tamaa,’ featuring Ben Pol. After a brief hiatus in 2015, Darassa made a comeback in 2016 with the successful single ‘Utanipenda,’ featuring Rich Mavoko, along with the notable track ‘Muziki.’ These songs significantly contributed to his rise in popularity. Currently, Darassa serves as the CEO of his own management firm, Classic Music Group (CMG).

Darassa has released his eagerly awaited album, Take Away The Pain, today February 7, 2025. Renowned for his engaging flow and collaborations with leading Tanzanian artists, Darassa has crafted an album that blends Bongo Fleva with elements of hip-hop, soul, and more. The album comprises 15 tracks, featuring collaborations with notable artists such as Alikiba, Harmonize, Zuchu, Mbosso, and Jovial.

Tracklist:

Darassa – Take Away The Pain (Album)

Listen to the full album: Darassa – Take Away The Pain

Album Information

Genre: Hip-hop
Release Year: 2025
Released Date and Month: February 7th

Producers: Kaniba Creator, Kapipo Beat, Blvcq Igbo, Foxx Made It, Trone, S2kizzy, Element Eleeeh, Abbah Process

Mixing and Mastering: The Mix Killer
Executive Producer: Kimbe C.M.G.

THROWBACK | Uswahilini Matola

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Uswahilini Matola Zakaria Album Cassette Cover.

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 Marehemu
Uswahilini Matola Ft Dully Sykes – Zakaria

AUDIO | OMG Tanzania – Swing

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The Tanzanian music ensemble OMG Tanzania has released an exhilarating and lively track entitled “Swing.” This song masterfully combines elements of Bongo Flava, Afrobeat, and Amapiano, resulting in an irresistible anthem for dance enthusiasts. Renowned for their catchy melodies and dynamic performances, OMG Tanzania presents a composition that encourages listeners to unwind, revel in the moment, and embrace the rhythm of life. The producer is this joint is S2kizzy.

“Swing” features captivating beats, rhythmic basslines, and an engaging chorus that beckons audiences to dance. The track’s blend of Swahili lyrics and club-oriented production makes it an essential addition to any party playlist. Whether you find yourself in a nightclub, enjoying time with friends, or simply in the mood to dance, this song is crafted to inspire movement.

Listen to “OMG Tanzania – Swing” below;

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AUDIO | Jax Chata Ft Baddest 47 – Dear God

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Jax Chata, an emerging talent in the Bongo Fleva genre from Tanzania, has collaborated with the dynamic Baddest 47 to present a profound and uplifting song titled “Dear God.” Released on Feb 2025, this impactful track encapsulates the challenges of life while appealing for divine assistance. The song conveys the notion that the absence of certain elements in life can alleviate genuine stress, underscoring themes of faith and resilience.

Featuring poignant lyrics and an engaging melody, “Dear God” seamlessly merges the spirit of Bongo Flava with a sincere message that resonates with a wide audience. Whether you are in search of inspiration or simply appreciate high-quality music, this is a track that should not be overlooked.

Listen and Download: “Jax Chata Ft Baddest 47 – Dear God” below.

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AUDIO | Weusi – Bembea

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Weusi, a leading force in the Bongo Fleva and Hip-hop genres in Tanzania, has released an exciting new single titled “Bembea.” This track, which debuted on January 31, 2025, seamlessly fuses Afropop and Hip-hop, offering an engaging sound that appeals to music enthusiasts. The song is penned by Aizack Maputo (Lord Eyez), John Simon (Joh Makini), George Sixtus Mdemu (G Nako), and Nickson Simon (Nikki wa Pili), with production by the skilled Paul Maker. “Bembea” narrates a tale of love and romance, aptly reflected in its title.

Renowned for their lyrical prowess and dynamic performances, Weusi remains a dominant presence in the Tanzanian music landscape. For aficionados of genuine Bongo Fleva and Hip-hop, “Bembea” is an essential track to experience.

Listen to “Weusi – Bembea” below.

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AUDIO | Songa – Sincity

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Tanzanian rap sensation Songa has released his newest single, “Sincity,” a fresh anthem that showcases his lyrical prowess and genuine artistry. Renowned for his unfiltered storytelling and impactful verses, Songa persistently expands the horizons of Tanzanian hip-hop, and “Sincity” exemplifies this commitment.

The track “Sincity” can now be found on all prominent streaming platforms, including Boomplay, Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. Fans are invited to stream, share, and incorporate this compelling song into their playlists.

Listen to “Songa – Sincity” below;

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AUDIO | Moni Centrozone – Sisi Ndio Sisi

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Tanzanian rapper Moni Centrozone, a prominent figure from the Dodoma region, has officially unveiled a new track entitled “Sisi Ndo Sisi.” Renowned for his impactful lyrics and genuine storytelling, Moni Centrozone has once again demonstrated his significance in the Bongo Hip-Hop genre.

The song, produced by the skilled Binladen, exemplifies Moni Centrozone’s distinctive style—raw, powerful, and unapologetic. “Sisi Ndo Sisi” conveys a compelling message of self-assurance, resilience, and pride in one’s identity, striking a chord with fans who connect with Moni’s journey from modest beginnings to his current status as a rap icon.

You can listen to “Moni Centrozone aka Malume – Sisi Ndo Sisi” below;

AUDIO | Saigon Ft. Conboi – Usiku na Mchana

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Tanzanian hip hop icon Saleh Mzee, widely recognized as Saigon, has unveiled a new track entitled “Usiku na Mchana.” This song represents a blend of both classic and contemporary elements within the genre. Saigon collaborates with the emerging talent Conboi, infusing the piece with Bongo Flava influences while showcasing Saigon’s distinctive rapping abilities and lyrical ingenuity.

The title “Usiku na Mchana,” which translates to “Night and Day” in Swahili, suggests a narrative rich in curiosity, yearning, or a search for understanding. Featuring engaging hooks, lively rhythms, and a relatable storyline, the track resonates with a diverse audience. Conboi contributes his youthful flair with a unique rapping style.

You can listen to “Saigon Ft. Conboi – Usiku na Mchana” below.

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VIDEO | Inspector Haroun Ft. Jay Moe & Ibrah Nation – January to December

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The collaboration titled “January to December” features Tanzanian artists Inspector Haroun, Jay Moe, and Ibrah Nation, showcasing an exhilarating blend of Bongo Flava and hip-hop. This track presents a captivating mix of rhythmic beats and engaging lyrics that depict the various experiences encountered throughout the year. Each artist contributes their distinct style, with Inspector Haroun delivering a classic performance, Jay Moe offering a smooth lyrical flow, and Ibrah Nation infusing a soulful essence, resulting in a cohesive and dynamic musical experience.

This piece serves as a tribute to the journey of life, providing listeners with an inspiring and relatable anthem. It is an essential addition to any playlist, perfect for moments of reflection and motivation.

You can view “Inspector Haroun Ft Jay Moe & Ibrah Nation – January to December” below.

THROWBACK | GANGWE MOBB

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Inspectah Haroun and Luteni Kalama

Gangwe Mobb is a hip hop ensemble hailing from Tanzania, specifically the Temeke neighborhood in Dar es Salaam. The group consists of two members: Inspector Haroun, whose real name is Haroun Kahena, and Luteni Kalama, known as Karama Bakari.The term “Gangwe” is derived from a popular slang expression from the 1980s, signifying “hardcore.” In their music, gangwe encapsulates the gritty and urban hip hop ethos that characterizes the majority of their tracks.

Their initial success came with the single “Mauzauza” in 1996, Dogo Side Boy was also included in this single. This single was recorded at Mawingu Studios and produced by legendary DJ Boniluv.

Producer and Legendary DJ Boniluv.

Their first album, “Simulizi La Ufasaha,” featured national hits such as “Ngangali” and “Mtoto wa Geti Kali.” The group’s second album, “Nje Ndani,” released in 2002, included what is arguably their most famous track, “Asali wa Moyo.” One of their singles, “Bundasiliga,” translates to “slinger of bundles of hay,” conveying a significant social message. Additionally, they collaborated with the Kenyan group Necessary Noize on the song “Tunajirusha.”

Gangwe Mobb has characterized their musical style as cartoon rap (rap katuni in Swahili), which reflects the experiences faced by lower-class urban youth in their daily lives. Their songs have contributed to the development of a new slang dialect, with each track introducing unique slang terms.

Among their works is the song “Rap Katuni,” featured on the “Nje Ndani” album.

At the 2004 Tanzania Music Awards, their album “Nje Ndani” received a nomination for Best Hip Hop Album. This album was Produced by Bongo Records own, P Funk Majani.

Gangwe Mobb NJE NDANI Cassette Tape Album Cover.
Producer P Funk Majani

Since 2004, the group has been relatively inactive. Inspector Haroun has pursued a solo career, while Luteni Kalama has maintained a lower profile, associating with Wanaume Family, led by Juma Nature. In 2008, Gangwe Mobb announced their intention to make a comeback.

They have indicated that their name was inspired by the iconic hip-hop group Mobb Deep.

Listen to 5 of their tracks they have released as a group below;

Gangwe Mobb – Mauzauza

Gangwe Mobb – Ngangali

Gangwe Mobb – Mtot wa Geti kali

Gangwe Mobb – Asali wa Moyo

Gangwe Mobb – Nje Ndani