Tag: Paul Mbena

THROWBACK | Mr Paul

Mussa Tagalile & Paul Mbenna

Paul Mbena, known by his stage name Mr. Paul, began his musical career as a member of the R&B group 4 Krewz Flava, which comprises three individuals all born in 1975. This trio draws inspiration from the renowned group Boyz II Men and is particularly noted for their a cappella renditions of R&B and blues music. The members include Paul Mbena from the Songea Region, Mussa Tagalile from Southern Tanzania, and Abdul Kitenge from Tanga.

Mr Paul

Founded in 1995, 4 Krewz Flava used to performed at nightclubs, beauty pageants, and fundraising events, primarily delivering their music in English. The group claims to have been the only ensemble of its kind in Tanzania during the 1990s. They recorded several songs together before Mr. Paul embarked on a solo career.

Da 4 Krewz Flava Concert Flyer. Special Thanks to (Jumanne Thomas) for this photo.

One of Mr. Paul’s initial solo projects after the dissolution of his group was “Mpenzi Njoo.” In 1998, he released “Gozi Gozi” as a single track under MJ Records, produced by Master J, which garnered considerable success and received extensive airplay across the nation. In 2002, he introduced another hit song, “Buzi,” featuring Inspectah Haroun and produced by P Funk Majani at Bongo Records. That same year, he launched his debut album, “Ndani ya Love,” which includes notable tracks such as “Zuwena,” “Chocolate,” “Nakuzimia,” “Kigugumizia” among others. Presently, Mr Paul resides in Melbourne, Australia with his family and continues to participate in music on occasion.

Check the Cassette Cover of the Album “Ndani Ya Love” below;

Regarding Mussa, he is active as a digital creator and collaborates with SAGCOT in the agricultural sector. After the group’s dissolution, Mussa worked at the television station “I.T.V” under I.P.P Media. The third member, Abdul Kitenge, unfortunately, has an unclear current status, and his activities remain unknown.

Mussa Tagalile

Here is a segment of A capella performed by Paul and Mussa as “4 Kreuz Flava”.

Mr Paul – Mpenzi Njoo (Snippet) “Special Thanks to Jumanne Thomas for this Audio

Mr Paul – Gozi Gozi

Mr Paul Ft. Inspectah Haroun – Buzi

THROWBACK | Sos B Ft. Mr Paul – For You

Sos B

Today is Thursday, the day after Christmas, which serves as the occasion for the “Throwback Thursday Joint of the Day.”

The highlighted track for December 26th, 2024, is by one of Tanzania’s rap pioneers, Sosthenes Ambakisye, popularly known as Sos B, featuring his song “For You.”

This particular track stands out as one of the rare instances where he performs in English, showcasing his lyrical adaptability. In this collaboration, he is joined by another industry innovator, Paul Mbena, known as Mr. Paul, who contributes the hook. The recording was produced at MJ Studios, under the guidance of Joachim Kimaryo, also referred to as Master J. Enjoy this remarkable track, and best wishes for the holiday season to everyone.

Sos B had hits like “Kukuru Kakara zako”, “Ikibidivyo”, “Saturday” etc

Listen to the snippet of this song here;