Tag: East African Hip Hop

VIDEO | Fid Q – Pray

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Born as Fareed Kubanda, he is commonly known as “Ngosha” and performs under the stage name “Fid Q.” He hails from Mwanza, Tanzania, and is a prominent hip hop artist and songwriter. Celebrated for his sharp lyricism, impactful storytelling, and social commentary, he has made a name for himself as one of the most respected rap artists in East Africa.

Over the course of his rap career, he has released multiple full-length LPs. His discography features notable albums such as KitaaREJEX (2025), Kitaaolojia (2019), Propaganda (2009), and Vina Mwanzo Kati Na Mwisho (2005). Acknowledged for his lyrical depth, his works often include collaborations with various artists.

Recently, Fid Q released a video for “PRAY,” a reflective hip hop track that underscores his position as a rap icon from Tanzania. This song is the second track from Fid Q’s album Kitaa REJEX, expressing themes of hope, resilience, and spirituality through insightful lyrics and high-quality production.

Watch the video “Fid Q – PRAY” below;

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AUDIO | Fid Q – Pray

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Born as Fareed Kubanda, he is often referred to as “Ngosha” and goes by the stage name “Fid Q.” He is a Tanzanian hip hop artist and songwriter, born on August 13, 1982, in Mwanza, Tanzania. Renowned for his incisive lyricism, meaningful storytelling, and social critique, he has established himself as one of the most esteemed rap voices in East Africa.

Fid Q initially rose to prominence with the song “Huyu na Yule,” recorded at MJ Records and featuring the iconic R&B artist Mr. Paul, whose real name is Paul Mbena. Since then, he has released numerous critically acclaimed projects, solidifying his position within the regional music landscape.

Throughout his rap career, he has produced several full-length LPs. His discography includes significant albums such as KitaaREJEX (2025), Kitaaolojia (2019), Propaganda (2009), and Vina Mwanzo Kati Na Mwisho (2005). Recognized for his lyrical profundity, his works frequently showcase collaborations with a variety of artists.

Recently, Fid Q unveiled a video for “PRAY,” a contemplative hip hop track that highlights his status as a rap icon from Tanzania. This song is the second track from Fid Q’s album Kitaa REJEX released August 13th last year, conveying themes of hope, resilience, and spirituality through thoughtful lyrics and polished production.

Listen to “Fid Q – PRAY” below;

Watch Video by “Fid Q – PRAY” below;

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AUDIO | Nikki Mbishi – Kabla Sijafa

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Tanzanian hip-hop artist Nicas Machuche, known by his stage name “Nikki Mbishi,” has released a thought-provoking rap single titled “Kabla Sijafa.” The title translates to “Before I Die,” and the song embodies his characteristic message-oriented style, which is centered on profound storytelling, introspection, and incisive lyrical delivery.

Released on May 5, 2026, “Kabla Sijafa” was produced by Villy on the Beat, with mixing and mastering by Blandos, and it was independently launched under Unju Music. The track features a polished hip-hop production style with a consistent rhythm that highlights the lyrics and the underlying message effectively.

Nikki Mbishi is a well-respected rapper and lyricist from Tanzania, recognized for his conscious hip-hop, social commentary, clever wordplay, and impactful storytelling. He is also linked to the name “Unju Bin Unuki,” which is featured in various aspects of his music branding and projects.

The song contemplates themes of legacy, mortality, personal errors, and the quest for dreams before life concludes. Rather than emphasizing club vibes, “Kabla Sijafa” offers a reflective message for those who value thoughtful, message-centric rap.

Listen to “Nikki Mbishi – Kabla Sijafa” below;

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Throwback Thursday | Bugsy Malone Ft D Rob – Utaona

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D Rob and Bugsy 1998 MJ Rec

It is Thursday, marking a significant occasion. Today, we honor a member of the Kwanza Unit foundation, known as Bugsy Malone born Esrom Margai, for his track “Utaona,” which was one of the few songs that heralded their arrival in the Tanzanian music scene in 1999.

In this masterpiece, Bugsy collaborated with a fellow member of Kwanza Unit, who was also his close friend, Robert Mwingira, known as D Rob, and sometimes referred to as Zomba.

All verses were performed by Bugsy in English. The hook of this joint was delivered in Swahili by D Rob, and it goes as follows:

“Kama hujui unakotoka, hujui unakokwenda
Fikiri kabla ya Kutenda. Fanya Unachopenda Iliandikwa haikusemwa.
Fanya mapema sasa nasema, vitabu vilishachomwa, Sitorudia tena, kama unajua we utaona,…”

Bugsy Malone

This song received considerable airtime on the radio during that period. It introduced Bugsy to rap music enthusiasts who were previously unaware of him. He relocated to the USA the same year the song was released and continues to reside there to this day. Unfortunately, D Rob passed away in 2002. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Furthermore, a special acknowledgment goes to Jumanne Thomas for sharing the audio clip of this song. #bongo90s #drob #bugsymalone #utaona #bongothrowbacks🎼🎼🎼🔥🔥🔥💯💯

Enjoy this rare gem below, and do not forget to follow me on all my social media accounts @ngomanagwa.

Listen to “Bugsy Malone Ft D Rob – Utaona” Snippet below;

AUDIO | Guilty Simpson – Tukusa 3IX Ft Nikki Mbishi & Kaa La Moto

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One of the most conscious and dope lyricist “Guilty Simpson“, Tanzanian hip hop pioneer Nikki Mbishi, and Kenyan rap veteran Kaa La Moto collaborate on “Tukusa 3IX,” a gritty boom-bap track produced by Black Ninjah.

This song is released under Dapstrem Entertainment and is part of the ongoing Tukusa series, a project celebrated for its heavy drums, sharp lyrics, and authentic hip hop energy. This installment bridges East African rap culture with Detroit hip hop through the involvement of Guilty Simpson, while Nikki Mbishi and Kaa La Moto contribute significant regional lyrical strength.

Nikki Mbishi is regarded as one of Tanzania’s prominent hip hop figures, recognized for his clever wordplay and socially conscious rap. Kaa La Moto has also established a formidable reputation in Kenyan hip hop, while Guilty Simpson is acknowledged globally for his underground rap heritage and powerful lyrical style.

“Tukusa 3IX” centers on lyrical supremacy, resilience, and the preservation of authentic hip hop. The track resonates with fans who appreciate bars, meaningful messages, and raw boom-bap production in an ever-evolving music landscape.

Listen to, “Guilty Simpson – Tukusa 3IX Ft Nikki Mbishi & Kaa La Moto” below;

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Throwback Thursday | Hard Blasters – Time For Action Feat. Killa B

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Today is Thursday, and we are once again celebrating the legendary 90’s Tanzanian Hip Hop Music from The Hard Blasters Crew. Our spotlight today is on their third and final album, released in 1999 after being recorded at MJ Records. This achievement was made possible by the inclusion of Joseph Haule, known as Professor Jay, who was previously called Nigga J. The album, titled “Funga Kazi 2000,” features popular tracks like “Chemsha Bongo,” “Mamsap,” and “Chuzi Limekubali.” The entire production of the album was handled by Ludigo Bishota.

The track highlighted today is “Time For Action,” which is also part of this LP and features contributions from Killa B born Badi Sangu of “Imeditation Kingdom” (2nd Photo below). He is the guy who introduced Nigga Jay to Hard Blasters Crew . In this collaboration, they emphasize the necessity for action without excuses. Terry Msiagi, also known as Fanani (Photo below), performed the first verse on this track. This is the sole track on the LP that was recorded in English.

Joseph Haule, widely recognized by his stage name Professor Jay, is a Tanzanian hip hop recording artist, politician, and former member of the Tanzanian parliament representing the Mikumi constituency. He stands as a significant figure in the “Bongo Flava” Tanzanian hip hop subgenre, which blends elements of Western hip hop with Tanzanian traditions, incorporating Swahili lyrics and an activist stance on pressing social issues in Tanzania, such as “UKIMWI” translate to HIV/AIDS, wealth disparity, and political corruption.

While the rain may be halted, the honor of Prof Jay in Bongo Flava cannot be diminished. On May 1, 2026, the Bongo Flava Honors will finally realize Jay’s long-awaited induction ceremony. History will be made at 710 Garden, Kawe, with Sugu The Jongwe commemorating the event.

Listen to “Hard Blasters Crew – Time for Action (Prof Jay & Killa B Verses) below;

AUDIO | Darassa Ft Khaligraph Jones – Beginning

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Tanzanian rapper Darassa collaborates with Kenyan hip-hop icon Khaligraph Jones on the track “Beginning,” a new rap partnership that exudes a strong cinematic essence. Released on April 21, 2026, the song was accompanied by a “Beginning Short Film ‘TRAILER'” like from Darassa, providing a more dramatic and film-like introduction compared to a typical single release.

According to the official release information available on YouTube, “Beginning” is attributed to both Darassa and Khaligraph Jones and was launched under CMG in 2026. The trailer-based rollout effectively positioned the song as more than just a standard audio release, incorporating a visual narrative around the collaboration. Darassa’s recent works also feature his project Take Away The Pain, while Khaligraph Jones unveiled “Uspimee” in January 2026.

Darassa is recognized as one of Tanzania’s prominent rap figures, celebrated for his fusion of Bongo Flava and hip-hop, whereas Khaligraph Jones stands as one of Kenya’s leading rap artists, boasting a long-established reputation in East African hip-hop. The collaboration on “Beginning” represents a significant regional connection between two artists with substantial fan bases and distinct rap identities.

Given the title and its introduction, the song conveys the impression of a new chapter, a bold statement, and a confident convergence of the rap scenes from Tanzania and Kenya. The cinematic presentation implies ambition, intensity, and a more grandiose display, aligning with the image both artists have cultivated over time. This interpretation is based on the title and the style of rollout, rather than an official explanation from the artists.

Listen to “Darassa Ft. Khaligraph Jones – Beginning” below;

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Throwback Thursday | G.K – 97

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Thursday has once again arrived, offering a chance to revisit some timeless melodies. Today, we honor Gwamaka Kihaula, commonly known as King Crazy GK or GK, with an outstanding track titled “97.” This song was produced by DJ Boniluv in 1997 at Mawingu Studios located in Mwenge, Dar-es-salaam.

This piece was recorded following G.K’s successful duet track “Upanga East Coast/West Coast” featuring Carola Kinasha. I would like to express my gratitude to Jumanne Thomas (J4) for discovering this treasure from his collection and sharing it with me.

Be sure to check out all my social media @ngomanagwa where I have more music and stories like this. Come through and vibe with me. Happy Thursday Y’all.

Listen to 2 mins of the Song by “G.K -97” below;

AUDIO | Chidi Beenz – Mchaka Mchaka

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Renowned Tanzanian Bongo Flava artist Chidi Beenz, popularly referred to as “King wa Ilala” and “Chuma,” presents a powerful track entitled “Mchaka Mchaka,” which showcases his authentic street style and lyrical prowess within the Tanzanian hip-hop landscape.

Furthermore, the song is frequently linked with collaborations that include artists such as Chiku K and Stick Rhymez, which infuse additional energy and lyrical interaction into the piece. Built upon a robust Bongo Flava/hip-hop base, the track encapsulates the quintessential sound that characterized Tanzania’s rap movement during its emergence.

In addition, Chidi Benz is acknowledged as one of the trailblazers of Tanzanian hip-hop celebrated for his forceful delivery, genuine street credibility, and significant impact on the evolution of the nation’s rap culture. His music continues to resonate with audiences who value authentic, unfiltered hip-hop narratives.

The track exudes a potent street essence, focusing on themes of confidence, ambition, and dominance within the rap industry. It embodies a competitive spirit, where lyrical talent, stage presence, and resilience are the hallmarks of success, rendering it a powerful anthem for self-expression and street authenticity.

Watch Video by “Chidi Beenz – Mchaka Mchaka” below;

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AUDIO | FreshlikeUhhh – Kileleni

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Tanzanian rapper FreshlikeUhhh presents a striking and impactful hip-hop track titled “Kileleni,” which was released in April 2026. The title translates to “At the Top,” symbolizing his assertive position and supremacy within the evolving New Bongo Flava genre.

“Kileleni” is crafted as a dynamic freestyle, filled with incisive lyricism, clever wordplay, and unabashed confidence. In this track, FreshlikeUhhh asserts himself as the GOAT (Greatest of All Time), making it abundantly clear that he perceives no rivals.

The song also features a robust critique of the industry, as he cleverly targets fellow rappers with witty metaphors and subtle jabs that call out weak lyrics, inauthentic personas, and a lack of genuineness in the scene. His delivery merges street energy with intellect, rendering the message both engaging and powerful.

Beyond the bravado, “Kileleni” underscores his resilience and journey, alluding to his involvement in Tema Yai Nation and how he has propelled the movement forward with unwavering determination and consistency. The track emphasizes his refusal to be eclipsed, highlighting both personal achievements and artistic development.

As a co-founder of Bar es Salaam and a prominent figure in Tema Yai Nation, FreshlikeUhhh persistently challenges limits, inspiring a new wave of bilingual and trilingual artists in Tanzania.

Watch Video by “FreshlikeUhhh – Kileleni” below;

Listen to “FreshlikeUhhh – Kileleni” below;

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