Tag: East African Hip Hop

Throwback Thursday | Black Rhyno Ft Fatma – Don Dada

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It is yet another Thursday, and you know what that means? It is time for this week’s throwback joint. This track was released 16 years ago and is one of those infectious songs that compels you to nod your head. The track is titled “Don Dada” by the one and only Black Rhyno, featuring Hardmad’s sister, “Fatma“.

Nicholaus Haule, better known by his stage name Black Rhyno or Black Chatta, is a distinguished Tanzanian hip-hop artist, entrepreneur, and former banker. He is highly regarded in East Africa for his musical contributions and has made notable advancements in both business and philanthropic endeavors.

Mandugu Digital

“Don Dada” was produced by Ambrose Dunga, also known as “Mandugu Digital“. He created the beat for the song at Pinnacle Records, and after departing from the label, Black Rhyno recorded the vocals at 41 Records. For mixing and mastering, Dunga teamed up with another talented producer named “Chizan Brain“. Together, they ensured that the project reached its maximum potential.

Chizan Brain

“Fatma” contributed one of the most memorable hooks of all time to the song, making this track one of my favorites from Black Rhyno’s album titled “Usipime“. This album is available on all major music platforms, including Apple, YouTube, Spotify, and even the East African platform Mdundo. The album features hits such as “Black Chatta“, “Usipime Ft Dully Sykes“, “Usije niacha Ft Chid Beenz“, “Happy Ft Noorah“, and many more.

Enjoy the track “Black Rhyno Ft Fatma – The Don Dada” below, and do not forget to follow me on all my social media platforms @ngomanagwa. Rock on with this incredible bounce, and stay blessed.

AUDIO | Kaa La Moto Ft Mtalibani Halisi – Mwenyekiti

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From the city of Mombasa, Kenyan hip-hop artist Kaa La Moto collaborates with Mtalibani Halisi on their latest hardcore rap track titled “Mwenyekiti.” This collaboration is characterized by incisive lyricism, clever Swahili wordplay, and a commanding microphone presence.

Officially launched on June 12, 2026, “Mwenyekiti” made its debut on Kaa La Moto’s YouTube channel. The instrumental was crafted by Kunta Official Beats, while the video was directed by Street Lights, providing the release with both a compelling sound and a visually striking street aesthetic.

The title “Mwenyekiti,” occasionally spelled as “Mwenye Kiti,” translates to “The Chairperson,” implying themes of authority, leadership, and expertise within the rap scene. In this track, Kaa La Moto and Mtalibani Halisi demonstrate their lyrical prowess, rhythmic cadence, and self-assurance as two prominent figures in Kenyan hip-hop.

Prior to its release, the collaboration generated considerable buzz, with fans speculating on which artist would deliver the more impactful verse. With its vibrant energy, powerful lyrics, and competitive edge, “Mwenyekiti” emerges as a significant offering for enthusiasts of genuine Swahili rap and Kenyan street lyricism.

Watch Video by “Kaa La Moto Ft. Mtalibani Halisi – Mwenyekiti” below;

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AUDIO | Mansu Li Ft Damian Soul – Holiday

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The Tanzanian hip-hop artist and rapper Mansu Li, also recognized as Sinza Starr, was born Mansoor Ally. He is celebrated for his contributions to the Bongo Flava/Hip Hop music genre and his notable collaborations within the East African rap community. His involvement spans the evolution from “Tamaduni Muzik” to “Kikosi Kazi” and now to “Tukusa” (Tunajua Kuchana Sana).

Mansu Li has released the highly anticipated single, “Holiday,” featuring the bongo flava/R&B artist Damian Soul, further enriching his growing collection of hits in 2026. The track was produced by Gachi B and officially launched on June 13th, 2026.

Mansu Li reinforces his position as a significant voice that embodies the spirit of entertainment and culture, effectively connecting hip-hop artistry with Tanzania’s dynamic music landscape. Known for his rich vocals, articulate delivery, and outstanding storytelling skills, Mansu Li once again blends the energy of hip-hop with distinctive Tanzanian rhythms, showcasing why he is considered one of East Africa’s most respected rap artists.

“Holiday” is a romantic song that takes listeners on a journey as Mansu Li expresses his feelings to a woman, talking about the good time they will be having while Damian Soul contributes a memorable hook with his exceptional voice: “Everyday is like a holiday, nikiwa nawe. Nikama Holiday, Holiday.”

Listen to “Mansu Li Ft Damian Soul – Holiday”

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AUDIO | Country Wizzy – Mademu

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Tanzanian Hip-Hop artist Country Wizzy has made a triumphant return with a fresh single titled “Mademu,” an energetic Urban Bongo anthem that showcases his distinctive flow, self-assurance, and street-influenced delivery.

“Mademu” was officially launched on May 29, 2026, under IAM Music Ltd and produced by Dacha. The track was composed and penned by Ibrahim Ayoub Mandingo, who is professionally recognized as Country Wizzy.

The term “Mademu” translates to “Ladies” in Swahili, and the song delves into themes of lifestyle, attraction, and social dynamics within the urban landscapes of Dar es Salaam and Nairobi. Musically, it fuses Hip-Hop rhythms with melodic Bongo Flava elements, remaining true to the Urban Bongo style that has defined Country Wizzy’s career.

This release comes in anticipation of Country Wizzy’s 15th Anniversary concert, set for June 6, 2026, where he is anticipated to commemorate his musical journey and perform some of his most recent tracks.

Listen to “Country Wizzy – Mademu” below;

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Throwback Thursday | Balozi Dola Soul – Nani Na Nani

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Indeed, it is once again Thursday, and as you are already aware, it is
time for this week’s Throwback Joint. Our focus will be on a member of a
rap and hip hop group from Tanzania who achieved significant success in
the 1990s. This artist is known by the stage name Balozi Dola Soul,
also referred to as (Balozi Wenu) “Dolasoul“

Balozi Dola Soul, born “Ahmed Dola,” began his career while he was a
student in Nigeria. He was raised in a family that prioritized
education, viewing it as the key to a better life. Initially, rapping
was merely a fun activity and not perceived as a potential career. After
completing his studies in the UK, Balozi returned to Tanzania and
pursued a career as a hip hop artist.

Upon his return to Tanzania, Balozi became a member of the rap group Tha
De-Plow-Ma-TZ, which included other members who were sons of Tanzanian
diplomats. DPT stands for Tha De-Plow-MaTZ. Alongside Balozi Dola, the
group featured Saigon Treach, born “Saleeh Mzee,” Trip Dogg, whose real
name is “Philip Mwimanzi,” and Storm, known as “Amour Shamte.” The group
released their debut self-titled LP in 1997 and was recognized as the
best rap group in Tanzania in 1999.


The Throwback Joint from Balozi marks his initial solo project outside
of the group. The song, titled “Nani Na Nani,” poses the question to
fans and the masses, “Nani na nani yupo kwenye fani hii, nauliza nani na
nani?,Essentially asking, “Who’s running the rap scene?” The song
gained popularity on radio stations such as Radio One Stereo, CTN
Radio, and Radio Free Africa, among others. It was released in 1999.



Balozi released his solo LP in 2002, titled Ubalozini. The album
featured a variety of hits, including “Kwenye Chati,” “Dini na Dunia Ft
Afande Sele,” and “Homa ya Jiji Ft Immam Abbas, Mac D & Inspectah
Haroun.”

Enjoy “Nani na Nani by Balozi Dola Soul” below;

Throwback Thursday | Mac D Ft. Balozi Dola Soul – Kifo Cha Nyani.

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It is yet another Thursday, and the moment has arrived to relax with today’s Throwback Thursday feature. Today, we will highlight the one and only Ilala Native, Benjamin McDennis Kamtawa, who is more commonly known by his stage name, Mac D or Mac Dizzo. The song we will showcase today is titled “Kifo Cha Nyani,” which features a Legendary Mc from the group Tha De-Plow-Ma-Tz, known as Balozi Dola Soul, born Ahmed Dola can be heard on the Intro of the track. In the song “Kifo Cha Nyani,” which translates to “The Death of a Monkey,”

Mac D discusses the challenges of life and incorporates a segment of a Swahili proverb to convey his message. This Swahili verse states, “Siku ya nyani kufa, miti yote huteleza.” This Swahili proverb implies that on the day a monkey dies, all the branches of the trees it attempts to grasp become slippery and lose their grip.

The true meaning or message behind it is that it describes the condition of an individual when faced with misfortune, bad luck, or a period of failure. It suggests that when a person encounters difficulties, every step they attempt to take or every assistance they seek seems to fail, as if everything is working against them. This proverb is also frequently used in political contexts or in everyday life to depict a time when an individual struggles to overcome challenges. This song was recorded in 2001 at MJ Records.

Mac D has been actively collaborating with various Bongo Flava/Hip Hop artists, such as Soggy Doggy on the track “Twiga,” and Unique Sisters on songs like “Lazizi.” He previously worked with them on the track “Nakupenda Si Utani,” and they also joined forces on a Unique Sister song titled “Bounce.” The collaboration between Mac D and Unique Sisters appears to be exceptional, leading to numerous joint projects. Additionally, he released a track in 2019 called “Mchepuko,” featuring “Country Wizzy“

Listen to ” Mac D Ft Balozi Dola Soul – Kifo Cha Nyani” below;

AUDIO | P Mawenge – Tukusa 3 X

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Tanzanian rapper P Mawenge, whose real name is “Cleophace Yessaya,” presents “Tukusa 3 X,” a compelling storytelling rap that reveals the concealed challenges associated with fame, record label agreements, and the pressures of maintaining a successful facade in the music industry. The track is structured as a heartfelt dialogue with his mother, rendering it emotional, straightforward, and profoundly introspective.

P Mawenge is regarded as one of Tanzania’s esteemed hip-hop artists, recognized for his incisive lyricism, social critique, and narrative prowess. His music frequently underscores genuine life challenges, street wisdom, and the more profound truths surrounding fame, ambition, and survival.

Produced by Black Ninjah, “Tukusa 3 X” illustrates the life of an artist who appears successful externally but is financially ensnared behind the scenes. P Mawenge recounts his experiences living in Mbezi, donning luxurious attire, attending high-profile parties, posing for photographs with prominent figures, and projecting an image of affluence orchestrated by his label, all while grappling with poverty and debt in private.

The core message of “Tukusa 3 X” serves as a cautionary tale for emerging artists about the perils of hastily entering contracts without a comprehensive understanding of the music business. The song illustrates how social media stardom, luxury branding, and public persona can obscure distressing financial truths, particularly when an artist lacks control over their income, rights, or autonomy.

Listen to “P Mawenge – Tukusa 3 X” below;

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AUDIO | Femi One – Tuzitoke

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Femi One, a Kenyan rapper and songwriter born Wanjiku Kimani, returns with a vibrant Afrobeats single titled “Tuzitoke.” Renowned for her sharp lyricism in Swahili and Sheng, Femi One delivers a confident performance infused with the lively sound of East Africa, creating a danceable track tailored for enthusiasts of contemporary African music.

Released on April 23, 2026, as a standalone single under Kaka Empire, “Tuzitoke” has a duration of 2 minutes and 12 seconds and is categorized as an Afrobeats release on prominent streaming services.

As one of Kenya’s foremost female rappers, Femi One stands out as a significant figure in East African hip-hop. She achieved widespread recognition across the continent after being awarded Best Female Rapper in Africa at the 2022 AFRIMMA Awards.

The track exudes an upbeat and energetic vibe, merging the rhythm of Afrobeats with Femi One’s assertive rap persona. “Tuzitoke” marks another lively addition to her discography, highlighting her ability to transcend traditional hip-hop boundaries.

Listen to “Femi One – Tuzitoke” below;

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AUDIO | Billnass – Division One Freestyle

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Billnass, also known as “Nenga“, is a Tanzanian rapper who has made a notable return with his recent release, “Division One Freestyle.” This incisive hip-hop track marks a new chapter in his rap journey. The song boasts a self-assured sound, an elevated delivery, and communicates a strong message about ambition, dominance, and artistic dedication.

“Billnass,” whose birth name is “William Nicholaus Lyimo,” is a renowned Tanzanian rapper celebrated for his lyrical skill, captivating flows, and substantial contributions to Bongo Flava and Tanzanian rap. Over the course of his career, he has built an impressive discography, featuring tracks such as “Bugana” with his wife, “Nandy,” alongside numerous collaborations and solo endeavors that have solidified his status as one of the leading figures in the nation’s rap landscape.

“Division One Freestyle” was launched on May 17th, 2026, and produced by S2kizzy, showcasing Billnass in a competitive rap frame of mind. The title suggests a top-tier status, with Billnass using this freestyle to remind his listeners that he remains one of the most formidable voices in Tanzanian hip-hop.

The central theme of “Division One Freestyle” centers on confidence, a revival of energy, and competitive excellence. Billnass utilizes this track to address critics, showcase his lyrical talent, and signal an upcoming phase marked by more frequent releases and high-caliber projects.

Watch Visualizer by “Billnass – Division One Freestyle” below;

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AUDIO | Fresh Like Uhhh – Pray God (Diss Track)

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Tanzanian rapper FreshlikeUhhh presents a striking and impactful hip-hop diss track titled “Pray God,” which was released on May 16th, 2026. The title, “Pray God,” is a genuine name for the artist known as Baghdad, who is the target of this diss. Baghdad initiated the conflict by dissing FreshlikeUhhh and Mex Cortez in a track called “Mshua Freestyle“

The song also delivers a strong critique of Baghdad, as FreshlikeUhhh targets fellow rapper with witty metaphors and subtle jabs calling out weak bars, inauthentic personas, and a lack of genuineness.. His delivery combines street energy with intellect, rendering the message both engaging and powerful with a BoomBap beat rolling to back his natural prowess.

As a co-founder of Bar es Salaam and a pivotal figure in Tema Yai Nation, FreshlikeUhhh continues to break barriers, inspiring a new generation of bilingual and trilingual artists in Tanzania.

Notable Lyrics:

“Hakuna cha mstaafu
Mpumbavu
Mafao huna, unazunguka ka siafu
Sema tukupige tafu
Au tulichezeshe rafu
Nikutekenye za mbavu
Upigwe denda na sakafu”

Listen to “FreshlikeUhhh – Pray God Diss Track” Below;

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