Top 10 Musicians in Tanzania 2024

Tanzania’s dynamic music scene has fostered intense competition, with artists constantly innovating to stay atop an ever-changing landscape.

While past years saw predictable domination by the likes of Diamond Platnumz and Ali Kiba,  this year brings a major shakeup in the top 10 musicians in Tanzania 2024.

Our analysis identified and ranked Tanzania’s most popular artists this year, offering fresh insights into a rapidly evolving industry. Some venerable stars have been unseated by up-and-comers like Jay Melody, whose breakout in 2023 propelled him into the elite top 10 musicians in Tanzania in 2024.

Even as staple hit makers like the WCB Wasafi label continue leading the way, new blood has risen to share the spotlight. The results spotlight Tanzania’s embarrassment of musical riches, with fresh-faced talents jostling for positions alongside seasoned veterans in the top 10 musicians in Tanzania this 2024.

One thing is clear – with this remarkable diversity of sounds, Tanzania’s music scene enters 2024 stronger than ever. The only constant changes, so expect vigorous competition as both new and established artists fight to claim the nation’s ears. The following are the top 10 musicians in Tanzania shaping the pulse of Tanzania’s music industry in 2024.

Stay tuned as we give you the rundown of the cream of the crop.

1. Diamond Platnumz

Diamond Platnumz’s extraordinary journey from humble beginnings in Tandale to global stardom is nothing short of remarkable. As a teenager selling clothes to fund early songs like “Toka Mwanzo,” few could have predicted his meteoric rise.

Now at 34, Diamond has overcome controversies through sheer musical brilliance to remain East and Central Africa’s undisputed king. From longtime rival Ali Kiba to Congolese great Fally Ipupa, none can match Diamond’s dominance.

Becoming YouTube’s first African billion-view artist cemented his status as a trailblazer. His label nurtured top talents, while versatile collaborations like “Yope Remix” with Innoss’B highlighted his crossover appeal.

Amassing over 219 million views in 2023, the hit underscored why Diamond is simply unmatched. Coming from modest means, his talent and work ethic are as undeniable as his success is monumental.

Audiences worldwide have embraced this maestro’s sound. If the past decade is any indicator, Diamond Platnumz will continue breaking records and conquering new heights atop the African music scene for years to come.

2. Rayvanny

Rayvanny’s musical origins trace back to high school in Mbeya, where rap victories revealed his talents. After gaining experience with Tip Top Connection, he took a pivotal step by joining WCB Wasafi Records under industry titan Diamond Platnumz in 2015.

This catapulted the artist known as “Vannyboy” into the upper echelon of Tanzanian music. However, after a hugely successful decade aligning with Wasafi, Rayvanny decided to strike out on his own in July 2022. NAsfounder and CEO of his next Level Music label, Rayvanny sits comfortably at #2 in 2024.

His ambition in leaving Wasafi and Diamond’s wing demonstrates Rayvanny’s drive to take his career to the next level. Though he still values that crucial mentorship, Rayvanny is ready to establish his musical empire.

As he continues bringing his distinct sound to fans new and old, Rayvanny’s future remains bright. His trajectory shows the importance of both aligning with industry powerhouses and forging your path at the right time. The talented Mbeya native’s best hits may still be yet to come.

3. Harmonize

Harmonize’s journey from humble Mtwara roots to becoming Tanzania’s #3 artist in 2024 is truly inspiring. After moving to Dar post-secondary school in 2009, the talented singer got his big break when signed as the first WCB Wasafi artist by Diamond Platnumz in 2015.

Hits like debut single “Aiyola” and collaborations like “Kwangwaru” with labelmate Diamond cemented him as a rising star. However, Harmonize’s crowning achievement came when established his own Konde Music Worldwide label. Now a household name, few could have predicted his success back when he was just a Mtwara boy with musical dreams.

With smash hits like “Kwangwaru” surpassing 108 million views in late 2023, Harmonize continues reaching new heights. His goal-focused mindset allowed him to maximize opportunities with Wasafi before branching out independently.

Tanzanian fans are proud to see one of their own achieve international fame. For Harmonize, the future shines bright as both a hitmaker and pioneering label owner guided by an ambitious vision.

4. Zuchu

Hailing from a storied musical family, Zuchu’s talents can be attributed to her Zanzibari roots. As the daughter of legendary Taarab singer Khadija Kopa, music was in her blood. Through her mother’s connections, Zuchu met industry mogul Diamond Platnumz in 2016 and auditioned for moving performances.

Her raw talent and songs like her debut “Wana” impressed Diamond, earning her a coveted spot with WCB Wasafi Records. Since then, Zuchu has steadily climbed Tanzania’s musical ranks. Now the nation’s #4 artist and first woman in the top 10, her melodic gifts are undeniable.

While some attribute her success to rumored ties with label boss Diamond, Zuchu has won over audiences through artistic authenticity. Coming from a long line of musicians, her meteoric rise highlights the work ethic and vocal mastery forged by her heritage.

As she carves out her musical legacy, Zuchu has become a source of national pride and inspiration to Tanzanian girls with musical aspirations. For this rising star, the sounds of her ancestors guide the way forward.

5. Mbosso

Hailing from Kibiti, Mbosso’s musical journey has been defined by resilience and meteoric growth. He first gained experience with the Yamoto Band before financial struggles led him to join Diamond Platnumz’s influential WCB Wasafi label in 2015.

Rebranding himself as a solo artist, Mbosso found massive success with hits like “Maajabu” and “Tamu.” However, his career skyrocketed to new heights with the 2021 release of “Baikoko.”

Amassing over 51 million views by late 2023, the smash hit cemented Mbosso as a dominant force in Tanzanian music.

Now sitting comfortably at #5 amongst the nation’s most popular artists, the Kibiti native has become a role model for persevering through early setbacks. Despite past hardships, Mbosso’s vocal gifts and alignment with label head Diamond Platnumz shot him into the spotlight virtually overnight.

As long as he continues releasing African pop anthems like “Baikoko,” Mbosso’s future shines bright.

6. Zabron Singers

Formed in Tanzania’s Shinyanga region in 2006, the Zabron Singers have risen to become one of the country’s top 10 music artists. This gospel ensemble is the only group to make the 2024 top 10 list, which is otherwise comprised of solo artists.

Originally, evangelists who brought thousands to baptism between 2006-2015, their fame has steadily grown beyond their hometown of Kahama.

Propelled by hits like “Sweetie Sweetie” with 54 million YouTube views, the family and friends who make up the Zabron Singers now command a top spot in Tanzania’s music industry just 18 years after their founding.

7. Ali Kiba

Known as King Kiba and Tanzanian rockstar, Ali Kiba’s nearly 20-year career has cemented his status as a heavyweight in the Bongo Flava genre.

Though once evenly matched with Diamond Platnumz, younger talents like Harmonize and Rayvanny have pushed Kiba from his past top spots. Ranking 7th on the 2024 top 10 list signals it’s time for Kiba to reclaim his throne.

Hailed by peers as the “King of Bongo Flava,” Kiba’s prolific hits like Mwana, Aje, and Nakshi Mrembo showcase his artistry. With 32 million views on his smash single Mwana alone, the acclaimed artist boasts fan favorites spanning decades.

While the number 7 ranking shows Kiba must hustle to beat the new generation, his enduring catalog proves why this icon remains among Tanzania’s most eminent artists after nearly 20 years on the scene.

8. Marioo

From high school dropout to mechanic to Tanzania’s 8th-ranked musician, Marioo’s rise has been remarkable. During his mechanic days, he began writing songs for others.

In 2015, he recorded his first track “Dar Kugumu,” releasing it in 2018 after mixing and making a video himself. As “Dar Kugumu” gained airplay in Dar es Salaam and Nairobi, Marioo’s musical career ignited.

His debut album “The Kid You Know” in December 2022 cemented his stature as a leading Bongo Flava star, showcasing his versatility across genres like Amapiano, Afrobeats, and R&B while staying true to Bongo Flava.

By December 2023, his popular “Mi Amor” featuring Jovial garnered over 31 million views. Mario0 is one of the few artists who cracked the top 10 in 2024, dominated by WCB artists. From a school dropout to a rising artist, Marioo’s journey proves hard work and adaptability can lead to success.

9. Lava Lava

Yet another WCB artist cracks the top 10, proving the label may be the key to success in Tanzania’s music scene. Coming in at #9 on 2024’s top artists is Lava Lava, born Abdul Juma Idd. His rise is fueled by hit tracks like “Tuachane,” which catapulted him up the music charts.

Songs including “Go Gaga” and “Niuwe” also boosted Lava Lava’s popularity. By December 2023, his smash single “Tuachane” had amassed over 21 million views, cementing his status as a top Tanzanian musician.

The Bora Tuachane hitmaker shows no signs of slowing down as he aims to unseat those above him and seize a shot at the crown. With immense talent and the backing of tastemaker label WCB, it seems just a matter of time before Lava Lava claims a top spot among Tanzania’s preeminent artists.

10. Jay Melody

The catchphrase “Jay Once Again” signals another infectious hit from Jay Melody. Born Sharif Said Juma, this Tanzanian musician, singer, and songwriter hailing from Dar es Salaam has been producing irresistible tracks we didn’t know we needed.

Affiliated with Epic Records, he’s best known for songs like “Sugar” and “Nakupenda.” The latter has amassed over 28 million views as of December 2023, cementing Jay Melody’s significance and securing the #10 spot among Tanzania’s top artists for 2024.

He closed out 2023 with a bang and momentum is on his side entering the new year. With undeniable talent and hits that hook listeners, the question is whether Jay Melody will be the one to finally unseat Diamond Platnumz from his chart-topping throne. Still rising at #10, his catchy sound shows no signs of slowing.

That wraps up our list of the top 10 Tanzanian music artists dominating the scene in 2024.

From bongo flava sensations to pop icons, these musicians represent the vibrant Tanzanian music landscape.

View the full report featuring 50 artists here.

To find out more about this report or get in touch, please contact us.

Thank you for joining us on this musical journey through Tanzania!