Tag: Tanzania Music

AUDIO | Fido Vato & Fid Q Ft. Dully Sykes – Riziki

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Tanzania Music unites three esteemed figures from the nation’s Hip-Hop landscape as Fido Vato and Fid Q collaborate with Dully Sykes on the track “Riziki.” This partnership merges Fido Vato’s rap heritage from Arusha with the well-established reputations of Fid Q and Dully Sykes in Tanzanian Hip-Hop. Fido Vato is linked to Arusha’s influential Hip-Hop scene, while Fid Q and Dully Sykes are recognized as key players in Tanzania’s rap culture.

Centered around the concept of riziki, which signifies livelihood and sustenance, the song embodies themes of hard work, ambition, gratitude, and the quest for improved circumstances. The fusion of three distinct rap styles lends the track a robust lyrical quality, appealing to those who value genuine Bongo Hip-Hop and socially aware Tanzanian music.

By merging Hip Hop with Bongo Flava elements, “Riziki” provides a relatable experience for audiences who seek meaningful lyrics and authentic narratives about life and survival.

Listen to “Fido Vato & Fid Q Ft. Dully Sykes – Riziki” below;

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AUDIO | Mbosso – Malaika Ft Nandy & S2kizzy

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Malaika is a fresh Bongo Flava love song by Tanzanian artist and songwriter Mbosso, featuring the talented songstress Nandy and renowned hitmaker S2kizzy.

Released on August 20, 2026, this eagerly awaited collaboration unites three significant figures in Tanzania’s music scene. The title Malaika, which means “Angel” in English, aptly captures the song’s romantic theme as Mbosso and Nandy deliver a heartfelt performance focused on love and admiration.

Recognized for his emotive songwriting and smooth melodies, Mbosso harmonizes seamlessly with Nandy’s powerful and expressive vocals, giving Malaika a distinct romantic Bongo Flava essence. Their vocal synergy is enhanced by S2kizzy’s expert production, resulting in a warm and melodic sound tailored for enthusiasts of contemporary East African music.

S2kizzy remains one of Tanzania’s leading Bongo Flava producers, having previously contributed to numerous major hits and winning the Best Bongo Flava Music Producer award at the 2024 Tanzania Music Awards.

With the collaboration of Mbosso, Nandy, and S2kizzy on this track, Malaika stands out as one of the significant Tanzanian collaborations released in August 2026.

Watch Video “Mbosso – Malaika Ft Nandy & S2kizzy” below;

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AUDIO | Jux – Sexy and Bad Ft Stonebwoy

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Tanzanian Bongo Flava and R&B artist Jux collaborates with Ghanaian Reggae/Dancehall icon Stonebwoy for a new single titled “Sexy & Bad.”

Officially launched on August 18, 2026, this track merges Jux’s smooth, romantic style with Stonebwoy’s distinctive Afro-Dancehall vibe, resulting in a dynamic collaboration that bridges East and West Africa.

Released under African Boy Rec and globally distributed by Africori, “Sexy & Bad” focuses on themes of attraction, self-assurance, positive energy, luxury, and the enjoyment of life without reservations. The song artfully combines smooth R&B melodies with Afrobeat and Dancehall elements, creating an energetic yet relaxed atmosphere.

Stonebwoy initiates the track with a warm introduction, which then evolves into a catchy tribute to a woman who embodies both beauty and confidence. Jux enhances this vibe with Swahili lyrics that emphasize wealth, enjoyment, and a carefree lifestyle.

This collaboration follows Jux and Stonebwoy’s joint performance at the BHIM Festival held at OVO Arena Wembley in London, further solidifying the musical bond between Tanzania and Ghana.

Watch “Jux – Sexy & Bad Ft. Stonebwoy” below;

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AUDIO | Aznas 40 Bars Ft Sloter – Jitu Kali

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Aznas 40 Bars has unveiled a new music video entitled “Jitu Kali,” featuring Sloter, a member of the renowned group from Temeke, Dar-es-Salaam known as Live With Purpose “L.W.P“. This latest release contributes to the expanding music catalog of the artists and is anticipated to garner interest from enthusiasts of African and East African music.

The song “Jitu Kali” represents a fresh video release by Aznas 40 Bars in collaboration with Sloter. This partnership aims to engage fans who appreciate modern African music and dynamic musical performances.

Watch “Aznas 40 Bars Ft Sloter – Jitu Kali” below;

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AUDIO | Aznas 40 Bars Ft. One The Incredible – Focus

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AZNAS 40 BARS – “Focus” featuring One The Incredible is a powerful Tanzanian Hip Hop release that unites the 40Bars performance platform with the seasoned Bongo Hip Hop lyricist One The Incredible. This track was officially released on August 17, 2026, as Episode 8 of the AZNAS 40 BARS series.

Centered around a gritty boom-bap Hip Hop sound, “Focus” allows One The Incredible to exhibit his signature lyrical precision, clever wordplay, and bar-for-bar delivery. The performance emphasizes themes of dedication, artistic integrity, perseverance in the face of career obstacles, and the importance of staying focused amidst distractions in the music industry.

This release is part of the Aznas Music 40Bars platform, a project linked to Tanzanian Hip Hop veteran Azma Mponda, designed to offer rappers a venue for competitive, lyric-centric performances.

The production of “Focus” was managed by Man DVD, enhancing One The Incredible’s forceful delivery with a robust Hip Hop instrumental, while the visual elements feature design work attributed to Kento.

Watch “AZNAS 40 BARS – Focus Ft One The Incredible” below;

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AUDIO | Aznas 40 Bars – Dawa Ft Mac Dizzo Episode 7

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Tanzanian rap veteran “Legendary Wolf Gang” Is Back, born “Benjamin McDennis Kamtawa“, known by his stage name Mac D or Mac Dizzo. He has been an active participant in the music scene, particularly in rap, since 1994. Alongside his friend Daz Amani, they were previously known as “Ugly Faces” and released their track Wapambe Nuksi in 1995, marking the official beginning of his musical journey.

Mac D, a trailblazer in Swahili Hip-Hop and a highly regarded figure in Tanzania’s rap community, is celebrated for his profound lyrics, mature themes, and his capacity to convey real-life experiences through his music. Today, he has released “Dawa” via the Aznas Link platform. This track combines traditional storytelling with contemporary production, addressing themes of growth, responsibility, and the evolution of life.

In “Aznas 40 Bars Episode 7,” Mac D presented “Dawa,” which translates from Swahili to English as “Medicine” 💊. He exemplified the true essence of being an OG in the industry with his 40 bars. The Tanzanian music scene still owes Mac Dizzo a significant place within it.

Watch “Aznas 40Bars Ft Mac Dizzo – Dawa” below;

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Throwback Thursday | Sugu – Mambo Ya Fedha Live Performance.

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It is another Thursday, and in accordance with our tradition, we select a throwback track to enjoy. Today’s selection features the one and only Joseph Mbilinyi, better known by his stage names Mr. II, Sugu, and 2 Proud. He is a notable Tanzanian politician, human rights advocate, and rapper. Originating from Mbeya, Tanzania, he began his rapping career in 1990 and has since established himself as the first Tanzanian rap artist to gain substantial recognition.

His music addresses political themes, social injustices, and various challenges encountered by Tanzanians, making him a voice for the voiceless. As a prominent figure in the Bongo Flava genre, Sugu tackles significant social issues in Swahili, including subjects such as prostitution, immigration, and the struggles of street children. His unique lyrical style, marked by a systematic yet swift delivery, has become a defining characteristic of the genre.

Sugu, also known as Mr. II or Jongwe, and sometimes referred to as Taita, is personally regarded by me as the “Triple OG” of Tanzanian hip-hop or Bongo Flava. He is the chief organizer of the annual Tanzania Hip-Hop Summit and has recently been involved with the Bongo Flavour Honors, excelling in the industry. He has garnered numerous Pan-African music awards and has performed at various international festivals. His song “Haki” is considered the quintessential anthem of Bongo Flava in Swahili.

On this Thursday, we are showcasing a video of Sugu performing “Mambo Ya Fedha” alongside Lady Jaydee, with Afande Sele providing stage support. This performance was part of the album launch for his sixth LP titled “Muziki Na Maisha,” released in 2001.

Enjoy this 2-minute and 37-second video featuring Sugu energizing the atmosphere with Lady Jaydee, accompanied by Afande Sele supporting their vocals on stage.

Throwback Thursday | Manzese Crew – Maisha Ubishi

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It is yet another Thursday, and today our throwback selection of the week features the Manzese Crew with their track titled “Maisha Ubishi,” which was their second single was popular and it has a long history with the producer of the song vs Narlon. This is a story for a different day.

Manzese Crew is a pioneering and established Tanzanian hip-hop group that hails from the Manzese neighborhood in Dar es Salaam, having been formed in 1998. They are closely linked with the legendary artist Juma Nature and the TMK family, and the group has played a significant role in shaping the foundations of Bongo Flava and Swahili rap culture through their authentic street narratives and notable collaborations.

The group officially consists of three members: the leader Abuu Leonard Raphael (Narlon), Fred Joseph (Tito), and Jofrey Lington, also known as Jevit. Additionally, the artist Madee Ali has been affiliated with the Manzese Crew.

“Maisha Ubishi” is a street expression that translates to life being tough and filled with challenges; it emphasizes the necessity of fighting, maintaining resilience against despair, and refusing to surrender easily in order to progress. The characteristics of “Maisha Ubishi” include: perseverance i.e continuing to fight regardless of difficulties; self-reliance—acknowledging that nothing is given freely; one must actively seek opportunities; and a test of endurance—showing inner strength during challenging times.

The song “Maisha Ubishi” was officially released in 2002. It was recorded at Bongo Records under the legendary P Funk Majani. The production, mixing, and mastering of the track complement the group’s raw and gritty rapping style. They have produced hits such as “Kula Kona,” “Haya Wee” featuring Juma Nature, “Oya Oya,” “Karibu Yangu,” and many others.

NB: Follow me on all my social media pages @ngomanagwa

Listen to ‘Manzese Crew – Maisha Ubishi’ below;

AUDIO | Dayoo – Biashara Ft Kontawa

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Tanzanian artist Dayoo collaborates with Kontawa on the track “Biashara,” a lively Singeli / Bongo Flava piece that transforms the challenges faced by small-scale entrepreneurs into an upbeat and humorous street anthem.

Officially launched on August 7, 2026, the song showcases Dayoo as the lead artist and executive producer, with Kontawa contributing as a featured artist. The lyrics were penned by Romani Baltazary and the track is distributed worldwide by ONErpm.

The term “Biashara” translates to “Business.” Instead of merely glorifying wealth, the song narrates the journey of a struggling entrepreneur who persistently invests in various ventures yet continues to face financial losses. From selling kachori and chips to establishing a coffin shop, each entrepreneurial effort results in yet another unforeseen setback.

The duo also alludes to prominent Tanzanian business personalities while inquiring about their paths to wealth. Beneath the humor, the song underscores the significance of financial discipline, business acumen, safeguarding capital, and maintaining perseverance in the face of repeated failures.

Musically, “Biashara” fuses fast-paced Singeli beats with Dayoo’s melodic style and Kontawa’s incisive, street-oriented rap verses, producing a vibrant record that mirrors the daily struggles of East African hustlers.

Listen to “Dayoo Ft Kontawa – Biashara” below;

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AUDIO | Rosa Ree – Mkaskazini

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Tanzanian hip-hop artist Rosa Ree has unveiled her latest track, “Mkaskazini,” a powerful Hardcore Hip-Hop anthem that honors the identity, pride, and vibrant street culture of Tanzania’s northern region.

Produced by Controller and released under Rosa Ree‘s name, the song is distributed worldwide by The Orchard Enterprises. It officially debuted on August 7, 2026.

The title “Mkaskazini” translates from Swahili to “The Northerner.” This song encapsulates the culture and self-assurance of areas such as Arusha, Moshi, Mererani, and the broader Kilimanjaro region. Rosa Ree employs incisive street lyricism and local slang to assert her heritage and demand respect for her community.

Rich in cultural references, the track mentions Mount Kilimanjaro, Mererani, traditional cuisine, and Mbege, the famous banana beverage from the north. These elements contribute to a strong regional identity while transforming the song into a broader anthem of pride and aspiration.

Musically, “Mkaskazini” features an intense beat, robust percussion, and Rosa Ree’s powerful rap performance. Its impactful production and catchy hook make it a striking tribute to northern Tanzania.

Listen to “Rosa Ree – Mkaskazini” below;

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