Tag: Tanzanian Hip Hop

Throwback Thursday | NIGGUZ II PUBLIC – Lazima Ukubali.

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Another Thursday has come, offering a chance to contemplate a remarkable group from Kurasini, Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. NIGGUZ II PUBLIC (N2P) was a distinguished hip-hop group that attained considerable success in the 1990s.

The ensemble consisted of three members: K Bass, G Buffa, and Diz Nigga. Their popular track “Fikiri Chini” made a significant impression on Radio One Stereo in 1996.

Today, we will concentrate on their song “Lazima Ukubali,” which translates to “You will have to recognize,” essentially conveying that one must accept the long-term goals they aspire to achieve.

The song “Lazima Ukubali” was recorded and produced at DON BOSCO STUDIO by Producer Marlone Linje.

Enjoy this track from N2P below;

Throwback Thursday | G.W.M – Haya Twende

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It is Thursday, which signifies a special moment. Today, we honor G.W.M with their track “Haya Twende”, one of the two songs that marked their entry into the Tanzanian music scene.

G.W.M, an acronym for Gangstas With Matatizo, is also referred to as Mazimwi, with the word “matatizo” translating to problems in Swahili. Emulating the persona of a U.S.-style gangsta rapper in Dar es Salaam undoubtedly poses its own set of challenges.

However, G.W.M has remained dedicated to reality rap, performing solely in Swahili, and tackling the daily hardships encountered in the streets of Bongo. This term, a colloquial reference to Dar es Salaam, suggests the need for intelligence to navigate life, as “bongo” means smart or clever in Swahili.

The group is comprised of three members:
D CHIEF (real name Robert E. Makala)
EASY DOPE (real name Richard Makala), who is the elder sibling of D Chief
K.R. MULLAH (real name Rashid Ziada)

The music of the 90s had its unique flavor. A special acknowledgment goes to DJ “Boniluv” real name “Boniphace Kilosa” (Photo below) for producing this track and their album “Mikosi.” Their most popular song was “Cheza Mbali na Kasheshe.” K.R. Mullah and D Chief formed an inseparable duo.

Additionally, a shout-out to Jumanne Thomas for sharing the audio clip of this song. #bongo90s #gwm #tmkstyle #tbt #bongothrowback🎼🎼🎼🎼🎼🔥🔥🔥🔥💯💯

Listen to “Haya Twende” 2 verses from G.W.M below;

Throwback Thursday | Prof Jay Dropping a Verse in Twin Cities (Minnesota 2010)

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It is another Thursday, and as you are aware, it is time to present this week’s Throwback Thursday joint. Today, we will concentrate on the heavyweight MC himself, “Professor Jay.”

This video clip was filmed in Minnesota in 2010. Can anyone identify the song from which the verse that he is rapping originates? The first individual to provide the correct answer to this trivia question will receive an mp3 of the song.

Enjoy this rare moment featuring Joseph Haule, also known as Prof Jay, delivering a verse while entertaining and spending time with fellow Tanzanians and family residing in the Twin Cities.

Watch the Video Clip of Prof Jay Below;

Audio | Nikki Mbishi Ft Azma, Black fire, ConBoi, Shaulin, Songa, P Mawenge, Kayvokforce, Nala Mzalendo, Jos Mtambo & Jcb – Tukusa 3 III

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The hip hop scene in Tanzania is experiencing a resurgence with the debut of a new rap track titled “Tukusa 3 III,” a significant collaboration that unites some of the most prominent figures in conscious and underground rap.

“Tukusa 3 III” transcends the typical rap song — it serves as a powerful statement. Remaining faithful to the essence of authentic hip hop, the artists employ incisive lyricism, impactful bars, and profound storytelling to confront social issues, hardships, truths, and the sentiments of the streets.

Listen to “Nikki Mbishi Ft Azma, Black fire, ConBoi, Shaulin, Songa, P Mawenge, Kayvokforce, Nala Mzalendo, Jos Mtambo & Jcb – Tukusa 3 III” below;

Download MP3:

Audio | Aznas Link – Business Mind

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Aznas Link collaborates with Azma, Nikki Mbishi, Mex Cortez, Country Boy, P Mawenge, Manengo, One The Incredible, and Baby Boy on the track “Business Mind,” which emphasizes hustle culture, strategic thinking, and achieving long-term success.

The song promotes a transition towards discipline, careful planning, and personal growth.

In “Business Mind,” each artist presents their distinct viewpoint on work ethic and ambition, all set against a backdrop of refined modern production. The outcome is an inspiring record that resonates with enthusiasts of conscious hip hop and message-oriented Tanzanian music.

Watch Aznas Link featuring Azma, Nikki, Mex Cortez, Country Wizzy, P Mawenge, Manengo, One The Incredible, and Baby Boy – Business Mind below;

Download MP3:

THROWBACK | Mabaga Fresh – Tupo Kamili

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It is yet another Thursday, and today our “Throwback Thursday” feature spotlights the group “Mabaga Fresh,” also known as “Chombo Cha Dola.” This hip-hop duo comprises two individuals with disabilities, Jumanne Omary, commonly known as “JB,” and Chritoms Mwingira, referred to as “DJ Snox,” both originating from Temeke, Dar-es-Salaam.

During the 1990s, this rap group made notable contributions to the Tanzanian “new generation music scene.” They played a crucial role in introducing one of the most prominent and esteemed bongo flava artists, Juma Kassim Kiroboto, also known as “Juma Nature,” with their hit song “Mtulize,” produced by the legendary DJ Boni Luv.

Today, we will concentrate on their song from their debut album titled “Tupo Kamili.” This track is one of those that fans adored, and every time they performed it live, the audience went wild.

Watch the live performance of “Mabaga Fresh – Tupo Kamili” on the day of their album launch.

Throwback Thursday: Hashim Dogo – I Smoke Emceez

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It is another Thursday, and this one is particularly significant. It marks the first Thursday of the year 2026. Given this occasion, our selection for the Throwback Joint of the week is Triple OG Hashim Rubanza, also known as Hashim Dogo, featuring a track he recorded in 1998 at Bongo Records under the guidance of P Funk Majani.

The song is titled “I Smoke Emceez.” In this piece, the title itself is quite revealing. Hashim begins the track with the phrase, “And here is Little Some Local,” while cleverly mimicking Bob Marley’s hook from “I Shot the Sheriff,” slightly altering it to align with his concept for this joint.

This song consists of four verses; however, today I will only present the first two verses along with the chorus. This is one of the rare and exceptional tracks he has ever produced. For more tracks like this, please visit my social media at Instagram, facebook, reverbnation, tiktok, X, youtube etc @ngomanagwa.

N.B. Special thanks to J4 for sharing this audio.

Listen to the Snippet of “I smoke Emceez” by Hashim Dogo below;

Throwback Thursday | Hard Blasters Crew – Tupo Nyuma.

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As you are aware, it is Thursday once again, and today we are paying
tribute to the 90’s Tanzanian Hip Hop group, The “Hard Blasters Crew”. Our
emphasis today will be on their third and final album, which was
launched in 1999 after being recorded at MJ Records. This achievement
was made possible with the inclusion of Joseph Haule, known as Professor
Jay, who was previously referred to as Nigga J. This album, entitled
“Funga Kazi 2000,” features popular tracks such as “Chemsha Bongo,”
“Mamsap,” and “Chuzi Limekubali.” The entire album was produced by
Ludigo Bishota.

The highlighted track of the day is titled “Tupo Nyuma,” which is also
part of this LP and features contributions from Big Willy and his late nephew LB Geniuz, Fanani and Prof Jay .

In this collaboration, they discuss the challenges of life due to bribery, waste, and unfair favoritism, indicating that the country is heading in a negative direction. To be frank, this track is quite impactful.

Enjoy the snippet of this song below.

Throwback Thursday | Kwanza Unit – Itapobidi.

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Kwanza Unit, commonly referred to as KU, means “First Unit” and was formed in 1993 through the merger of several groups, including the Villain Gangsters, led by the famous rapper Rhymson (also known as Ramadhan A. Mponjika), Riders Posse, Tribe X, and various solo artists.

The founding members of Kwanza Unit consist of Rhymson, KBC (Kiba Cha Singo), D-Rob (Robert Mwingira), Eazy-B (Bernard Luanda), Fresh-G (Godfrey Koshuma), and Y-Tang, among others. Furthermore, there is a wider network of associated individuals known as the Kwanza Unit Foundation or Kwanzanians.

The group’s first album, titled Kwanza Unit, was released in 1994, followed by their second album, Tropical Techniques, in 1996. Their third album, Kwanzanians, was released in 1999, available in both tape and CD formats. The single “Msafiri,” which is part of the third album, Kwanzanians, received significant attention.

Today, our throwback post will highlight the song “Itapobidi,” which features verses from all five members who recorded the first album in 1994. I am sharing a snippet of approximately 2 minutes so you can experience 90’s hip hop music in Tanzania. Enjoy this rare gem recorded at Mawingu Studios, Mwenge Dar-es-salaam, under the production of the legendary DJ and Producer Boniphace Kilosa, also known as DJ Boniluv.

Listen to “Kwanza Unit – Itapobidi (Snippet)” below;

AUDIO | Kiri Ft Mkorinto – Mtutu

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“Mtutu” by Kiri featuring Mkorinto is a captivating track that presents a blend of lively rhythms and memorable melodies. This collaboration emphasizes the distinct styles of both artists, resulting in a sound that appeals to enthusiasts of modern African music.

The song frequently delves into themes of love, celebration, and cultural pride, encouraging listeners to dance and relish the moment. With its irresistible beats and invigorating energy, “Mtutu” is ideal for social events and festive celebrations.

Listen to “Kiri Ft Mkorinto – Mtutu” below;

Download MP3;