X Plastaz is a hip hop musical group from Tanzania, established in 1996 and based in Arusha. They are recognized as one of the leading acts in the Tanzanian hip hop scene. Their music uniquely blends international hip hop influences with traditional Maasai sounds, prominently featuring Maasai vocalist Merege. While Merege performs in the Maa language, the other group members rap in Swahili and Haya. Notably, Merege is often seen wearing traditional Maasai attire during performances.
The hip hop style of X Plastaz is characterized by a slower tempo compared to much of African hip hop, with a distinctive emphasis on deep Maasai chanting. Their tracks, including “Aha!”, “Dunia Dudumizi“, “Bamiza“, and the particularly popular “Msimu Kwa Msimu“, are celebrated hits within the bongo flava genre.
The original lineup of X Plastaz included the Ruff and Gsan brothers from Arusha, along with their friend and roommate Ziggy from the Tanga Region. They began their hip hop journey in 1995 while working in a barbershop. In 1996, they caught the attention of Bonnie Luv, a record producer from Dar es Salaam, who facilitated their first recording. Their debut hit, “Bamiza” (1998), quickly became one of the most played songs on Tanzanian radio for several weeks, followed by another hit, “Wachaga Piga Chata.”
In 1997, X Plastaz visited a traditional Maasai village west of Arusha, where they met Yamat Ole Meipuko, known as Merege, who was recognized as the local “singing champion” in his age group. They invited Merege to join them for performances around Arusha and Moshi. This collaboration led to the emergence of their “Maasai hip hop” style, which was met with immediate acclaim, solidifying Merege’s role as a permanent member of the group. Over time, they also welcomed additional members, including the younger siblings of Ruff and Gsan.
X Plastaz, the pioneering force in Maasai hip hop, captured the attention of Jay Rutledge, the esteemed editor of the Rough Guides ethnic music CD series. Their vibrant tracks made it onto the Rough Guides compilations spotlighting both Tanzania and African hip hop, which in turn propelled them onto the international stage, allowing them to tour through Europe and Latin America. A notable highlight was their participation in the World AIDS Day international event in 2002.
In 2004, the German label Out Here Records debuted X Plastaz’s full-length album, Maasai Hip Hop. This album featured hit tracks that had already gained popularity in the Rough Guides compilations.
Sadly, in 2006, the group suffered a heartbreaking loss with the passing of Nelly, who lost his life due to injuries from a stabbing on March 29. Born in 1976, he was the eldest member of the group and was well-known for his empathy towards the underprivileged, a characteristic that defined X Plastaz’s journey. The music video for Nelly’s last song, Nini dhambi kwa mwenye dhiki, shot at the majestic Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano, has become one of the most viewed African music videos on YouTube. Despite this significant loss, X Plastaz remained steadfast and continues to thrive.
In 2009, they released Furaha, the lead single from their highly anticipated second album. That same year, Gsan made his mark by participating in the BET Cypher with KRS One, DJ Premiere, Wale and Nipsey Hussle, an annual event that highlights outstanding MCs in Brooklyn, New York City.
They introduced another stirring single, Afrika, at the Sauti za Busara festival in Stone Town, Zanzibar, in 2010.
On March 23, 2025, we gathered to honor the memory of Gsan, born Godson Rutta, who passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. As a tribute to his life, alongside that of Faza Nelly and all the other members we’ve lost, I crafted a special mix dedicated to the fans of X Plastaz, celebrating their profound impact on hip hop music in Tanzania.
SPECIAL THANKS: To “Jumanne Thomas” who was once very close to this group for the images and some rare Xplastaz joints in this mix below.
NGOMANAGWA 