KENYATTA UNIVERSITY

LYNN CHERUGUT MASAI

M25/2876/2017

MDT 324

POPULAR MUSIC OF EAST AND CENTRAL AFRICA

QUESTION:

Discuss popular music of east and central Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda,
Rwanda, South Sudan and Burundi) with references to its history, various genres,
prominent artist and their musical contributions, their popular music contributions
to socio-cultural, academic and political issue of the region and any new
development.

Popular music can be termed as the music that is mass mediated and has a wide appeal to a category of
audience which is transient in nature. There are some general characteristics of popular music that one
can be able to identify no matter the geographic difference. Some of these characteristics are:

The melodies in popular music are usually simple, easy to remember, repetitive- to create a rhythmic
element that stands out-and tuneful. We can call this being catchy. It sort of captures the audience using
simple tunes hence being popular. We can also say popular music are usually topical or have some sort of
theme. These topics are relevant to the specific category of audience. Just like the meaning of the popular
music, these type of music is mass mediated this means that it is distributed to a wide audience through
the media.it is therefore commercial. Popular music usually reflects on emerging trends. Some artist can
find inspiration from issues or trends that are happening around them, hence compose a song which
would then be relevant to a lot of people hence becoming popular. Popular music has its focus on
recordings and technology often more than live performances. Popular music has rhythms which are
danceable and have lyrics that can be listened to. Harmony and chord progression is also present in
popular music. Almost all popular music has the voice and instrumental parts to it. There is one aspect of
popular music that varies considerably. This is the speed or tempo. This is where the popular music genre
begins to subdivide in a way that it’s for listening or for dancing.

Due to all this characteristics we can now understand what it is and we now we can further be able to
discuss popular music of individual countries both in east and central Africa.

POPULAR MUSIC IN:

 KENYA

HISTORY.

The genesis of the local music scene likely emerged in the late 1930s to early 40s. That was mostly
traditional music which was mainly performed just between the communities and the exposure of other
forms of music was minimal. The growth of popular music has closely been associated in broadcasting
and recording industries. The first recording studio was first in Kenya was established in 1928 by two
British citizens, Dr Guy Johnson and Eric Blackhart. It was known as the East African Sounds Studio.
The first wireless broadcasting station started in August 1928, according to the Kenya Broadcasting
Corporation. This establishment of broadcasting went a long way to in shaping Kenyan popular music.
The Second World War (1939-1945) has played a huge role in popular music. Following the events of the
Second World War, it led to the growth of radio and broadcasting stations. During the war, Nairobi
became a recruitment depot and training Centre for Africans in the British army and over 112,000 were
involved. These people had an opening to new people from other parts of the world, hence gaining one or
two things about music. After the war, the veterans further popularized popular music styles. New forms
of genres were formed like the benga, bango, omutimba, rhumba, Kenyan twist, and the zilizopendwa.
The electric guitar made its appearance in the early 1960s. The earliest form of popular music after that
was found in military bands. Some missionary schools emerged teaching music. New forms of guitar
styles emerged. These styles were often about by the artist individuality. At around the same time music
box, appeared especially in the bars. New artists came about like Fadhili Williams, Fundi Konde, Paul
Mwachupa, Daudi Kabaka, Jean Mwenda Bosco, John Mwale, John Agusi, Brother Chally, Victoria B
Kings, Reuben Kigame and others. As the years went by so did the styles and genre of the popular music
changed. Recording in studios developed and synthesizers in songs and artificial instruments were
introduced in the industry. New genres like hip hop, genge and kapuka emerged around the 1990s. Artist
who performed this genres like Nyota Ndogo, Nonini, Jua kali, PiliPili and others. Later in the year 2018
a new genre emerged called the Genge tone. Examples of Artist here are like Ethic Entertainment,
Boondocks gang, Sailors, Ochungulo family and others. Popular music continues to grow each time.
GENRES EMERGED.

(Between 1940s and late 1980s)

The most notable development of popular music after the world war consisted the use of guitar. Many
Kenyans trained in the military bands and then joined emerging bands. The Portuguese seemed to be the
first to introduce the Spanish guitar in Kenya. Dating back to 1929 the teaching of guitar skills was done
in Kabaa a catholic missionary school in Ukambani. These development helped to the popularization of
popular music. War veterans also helped in the spreading of this new guitar styles. Some of the genres
that came about from this are;

Twist.

Twist is a Kenyan popular music which was originally played on both the solo and rhythmic guitar
accompanied with the shakers. Later on they involved the electric guitar and the bass. Twist was a big hit
in the 1950s. Twist takes the strophic form. It is characterized by a light tempo, colorful guitar riffs and
strumming in I-IV-V chord. This makes a large use of parallel thirds and sixths in the vocal harmony. The
text in twist were in Kiswahili as it was the national language in Kenya. A lot of prominent artist came
out best with this genre. Some of them are

Daudi Kabaka. (1939-2001). Daudi was a Ugandan-born Kenyan singer. His earliest music exposure was
through the guitar sound of Congolese stars, Jean Bosco Mwenda and Losta Abelo, in 1950s while he was
still in school. He got his first guitar when he was just 14. Daudi was known as the “king of twist”. He got
his influence from the popular South African “Kwela” meaning “to scale.” He would take a traditional
song and make it modern and add his own kind of style. Having being known as the king of twist, he set
the pace and standards for other twist composers. He worked with Fadhili Williams in the equator Sounds
Studio and later on with John Nzenze. They produced works like “Taxi driver”, “Taabu ni kwa
mwanaume”, “Masista”, “Bachelor Boy “and “Nyumba za Tobacco” . After a fallout with the Equator
owner Charles Worrod, Kabaka started his own production company, African Eagles Lupopo in 1972. As
an individual composer, his style and rendition in twist was rather slow. He had elaborate guitar prelude
and interludes reflecting the vocal melodies. His themes were very topical, ranging from domestic issues
to matters of national concern. His best known songs include “African Twist”, “Harambee Harambee”-
which largely reflects the aspirations of postcolonial Kenya to rebuild their nation together-, and
“Western Shilo”. His song “Helule Helule” was covered by the tremeloes in the late 60s and became a
hit in the United Kingdoms. In 1986, Kabaka released the album Pesa Maradhi ya Moyo with the Maroon
Commandos.
John Nzenze. (Born in 1940 in Muthurwa, Nairobi). He started playing his father’s guitar at the age of
twelve. He collaborated with Daudi and recorded three songs “Masista”, “Bachelor Boy “and “Nyumba
za Tobacco”. These songs were released by Jambo Records and became hits. In 1968 he represented
Kenya at All African Music Festival in Algeria, finishing third. Although Kabaka set the pace, John
Nzenze is the one who perfected the art of twist through collaborations and numerous recordings. He
performed the twist dance style. His style was more rhythmic but in light tempo. The guitar riffs were not
reflecting the vocal melodies but were colorful and supportive. Vocal melodies were tuneful were
appropriate to the subject matter. He maintained in all his song the same bass pattern and guitar
strumming in I-IV-V progression to accompany the voice. Only the preludes and interludes varied
according to vocal melodies of a particular song. He also addressed domestic and public issues of the time
and also wrote extensively on romance. His best work is “Angelike”- released in 1961-, “Maoni ya twist”,
“Veronica”, “Julieta Rudi Tuone”, “Habari za Nairobi” and “Amina” among others. He is still making
music.

Isaya mwinamo. Unlike Kabaka and Nzenze, his style was not a typical twist composer. His style was a
fusion of twist and rhumba. The twist element was featured in his tempo choice, singing style and guitar
riffs. He ignored the traditional strumming and bass lines that outlined the roots of the chords. He is
known as a very dexterous guitarist and patriotic composer. Some of his works include “Kenya inawaka
Kama moto”, “Jerida” and “Berenta”.

Other twist artist are David Amunga- he produce one twist song “Wauwau”- and Fadhilli William- he
collaborated with Daudi Kabaka to produce some songs “Taxi driver” and “Taabu ni kwa mwanaume”.

Omutibo

Omutibo is a Kenyan popular music which is influenced by the traditional lyres of the western Kenya. It
was originally a style of acoustic guitar developed by the Luo. It featured a unique finger picking style
used on the litungu, played on the guitar. The omutibo featured various forms: the lyre-oriented, isukhuti-
oriented, and hemiola-oriented and rhumba oriented. Some of the artist for the omutibo genre are,

George Mukabi. (1930-1963). His omutibo was in the form of lyre-oriented, which was influenced by the
Malawian artist, Jean Bosco of the 50s. Although this style was a reflection of unique guitar style, his
discipline was related to the traditional lyre. As he produced his songs, his mentality and approach was
that of a traditional musician. His chord progression was I-IV-V and sometimes, I-V7. The use of Fanta
bottle to add percussive effect was common. His singing was in parallel 3rds and his text was in broken
Kiswahili with a few vernacular text. His rendition of omutibo was purely a one man guitar style. One of
his works is, “Mtoto si nguo”.
Jacob Leseno. His style was isukhuti-oriented in form. His influence was from the traditional isukhuti
drums. He incorporated the isukhuti drum patterns in his songs. He combined the electric guitar and
conga drums from the 60s and the 70s. One of his work is “Amakuru”

Fanuel Amimo. His style hemiola-oriented in form. His music was influenced by the bukusu community.
The hemiola effect underlined the duple time in a simple triple time. Some of his works are “Safari ya
Alego”, “Harusi ya Leah”, “Neshere Omwana” among others.

John Mwale. His style was rumba oriented in form. His influence was form the Congolese music style.
He had a fusion of Mukabi’s style and rhumba. Some of his works are “Dada Sofia”, “Kuweza Sera
Wangu”, and “Vijana Kisasi” among others.

Rhumba.

Rhumba is a popular music in Kenya. It was influenced by Latin music. In Kenya, two bands emerged,
the one with the Swahili sound and the ones with the Congolese sound. Congolese musicians were
popular during the 1970s and 1980s losing their mainstream acceptance in early 1990s.Notable Congolese
groups in Kenya included Super Mazembe- formed the band in 1967 in Congo. The band moved to
Nairobi in 1974. Their biggest hit was “Shauri yako”, “Samba”, “Bwana Nipe Pesa” and “Kassongo”.
The group disbanded in 1985. - And Les Mangelepa. Other popular musicians are Franco, Tabu Ley, Dr
Nico, and Bavon Marie Marie among others.

For the bands in Kenya with the Swahili sound, there were two categories that came out. The coastal
rhumba and the western rhumba.

For the coastal rhumba it was considered like any typical rhumba. It was slow and sentimental and it
attests the earliest and unique use of the clarinet in style. It was built on a minor mode with occasional but
purposeful chromatic passages on the lead guitar. The bass used arpeggios to add color. Drums were
rarely used until later on in the 1960s and 1970s. The singing is in parallel 3rds and 5 th with an elaborate
melodic contour. The text were quite poetic and catchy. Some of the prominent artist from the coastal
rhumba are;

Fadhilli Williams. (1938-2001). He was a famous Kenyan recording artist. He was born in Taita Taveta
district near Mombasa. He started singing while in primary. He went to a government African school
Pumwani in Nairobi. He dropped out while in form three to pursue a musical career. He composed the
song “Malaika” which was recorded at the equator sound studios under the guidance of Charles Worrod,
who went on to promote and distribute the ballad. Another one of his work was “natafuta kazi”.
Fundi Konde. (1924-2000). He is said to be the first electric guitarist from Kenya. In 1955, Konde’s
career as a music all-rounder began. He performed for the East African troops in south Asia. His earlies
recordings produced hits like, “Mama Sowera”, “Majengo Siendi Tena”, “Kipenzi Waniua Ua” and
“Jambo Sigara”. He continued to perform until the early 1963, when he retired until the early 1980s, he
begun singing, composing and producing again.

Another artist performing coastal rhumba was Paul Mwachupa.

The western rhumba, has its style defined by the bass through syncopation of two chord arpeggio in either
I-V or I-II progression. Since the accompaniment didn’t have drums, the bass would carry the pace for the
song. The lyrics were commonly harmonized in a two part singing. The music was highly strophic with
new lyrics in each stanza. Some artist from this form of rhumba are;

Isaya mwinamo and Odera Onani

Benga

Benga music emerged from the western part of Kenya by the Luo. The genre later developed into other
regions of Kenya. Benga is one of the most recorded genre in Kenya. It was so influential that it yielded
many versions from different regions of Kenya like, kikuyu benga, akamba benga, and Kalenjin benga
and so on. The original benga started in 1960’s by the Ogara boys, D.O. Misiani, Osumba Rateng’ among
others. It was fairly strophic. It heavily borrowed from the traditional music in terms of vocal expressions
and instrumentations. There was a use of drum set but the bass was more pulsing and had melodic
character. Other artist are

Samuel Aketch, Ochieng Nelly, John Ogara, George Ramogi, Gabriel Omollo, Danielle Kamau, The
Mwenda Brothers, Kaikai Kilozo among others.

Bango

Bango is a style is a fusion of traditional Portuguese music genres, Arabic influences and music genre of
the local coastal Bantu. The prominent musicians for this genre are

Mzee Ngala. Mzee comes from Freretown. Mombasa. He is the founder of the genre. He performed in the
past with famous groups such as Hodi boys and Bahari boys. He was the main composer. His song
“Bango” is the originator of the name bango.

The Mushrooms. The band was founded in 1969. They are known for their distinctive blend of taarab,
benga and chakacha. One of their famous songs is “Jambo Bwana”
Other bango artist are Teusi 5 and Bango sounds.

(Between early 1990s and 2020)

Genge

Genge is a genre of popular music which had its beginning in Nairobi. Genge was always associated with
calif Records which was located in California Estate, Nairobi. The name genge was coined by the
producer Clemo. The text in genge are sung in sheng. The term genge is a sheng word meaning a group of
people. Genge include rapping as part of the vocals and conversational rhythm format that makes a song
sound like a casual discussion in sheng. There was use of keyboards and sampler from the studio.
Famous artist for this genre are

Nonini. Was born in 1982 in California Estate. His birth name is Hubert Mbuku Nakitare. He originally
signed in calif record but later he joined the homeboyz production. Some of his famous hits are “Mazi wa
Nairobi’, “we kamu”, “Keroro”. He did some collaborations with Nyota Ndogo, p-unit, professor jay and
others,

Jua Cali. Was born in 1979. His birth name is Paul Julius Nunda. He founded the Calif records. His style
is rapping in sheng. Some of his famous hits are “Kamata Dame”, “Ngeli ya Genge”, “Kiasi”, “Kwaheri”
among others.

P-unit. Is a Kenya group consisting of artist Frasha, Gabu and Bon eye. Some of their hits are “you guy”,
“gentleman”, “Mobimba”, “love” among others.

Other prominent genge musicians are; Flexx, Alpha Msanii, Lady S, Pili Pili, Jimwat, Rat a tat among
others.

Kapuka

Kapuka is also referred to as Boomba Music. It is an incorporation of hip hop, reggae, and African
traditional musical styles. The lyrics are in sheng, Swahili and local dialect. It is associated with Ogopa
Deejays .Some of the prominent kapuka artist in Kenya are

Kleptomanix, Esir, Abbass Kubaff, Mr Lenny, Amani, Mr Googz and Vinnie Bonton, Bamboo, Chiwawa,
among others.

Hip hop

This is a style of popular music that features the style rap with electronic backing. Many artist in Kenya
borrow some of this style from other countries like the United States. Artist in Kenya would rap in
English, Kiswahili, and sheng or even in vernacular. Hip hop is often characterized by freestyling. Some
of the hip hop artist in Kenya are;

Wangechi, Femi One, King Kaka, Nyashinski, Camp Mulla, Kaligraph Jones, among others.

Reggae

Reggae is a popular genre in Kenya. Reggae elements are often mixed with local hip hop. There hasn’t
been a lot of mainstream reggae musicians in Kenya. Some of the reggae artist in Kenya are

Mighty King Kong, Jahkey Malle, Prince Otach, Wyre, Nazizi, Red San, Versatile, Chronic, among
others.

Afro pop

Afro pop is any form of popular music that combines various African music styles with elements of
western popular music, often with electrically amplifies instrumentation. This genre is huge with talented
groups such as Sauti sol. This group went ahead to create their own production known as sol generation
which has produced artist like

Ben sol, Nviiri, Crystal and Kaskazini.

Genge tone

Genge tone is a genre of popular music that started in the year 2018. This genre is mostly performed by
boy groups from the ghetto in Nairobi. The lyrics of the song almost always talk about sex, drugs-
particularly bhang-, money and women. Some of the songs like “Wamlambez” by the sailors_254 was
banned because it was regarded as “pure Pornography”. Some of the artist are

Ethic entertainment, Boondocks gang, Sailors, Ochungulo family, Zero Sufuri among others.

 UGANDA

HISTORY

For the last decade, Uganda has been a country colored by a history of violence. Idi Amin seiezed power
in 1971 and his regime is known for having suppressed everything deemed critical of the state.
Performances and leisure were deemed critical hence were suppressed with the same force of political
activists. Yet this same history of violence and terror also shaped Ugandan’s history of cultural
production and pleasure. Amin for example, supported the establishment of jazz bands like, Malire jazz
band, Simba Battalion jazz band in all military bands. These band were well known on their musical
scenes in Kampala. Amin also sponsored military jazz bands to follow in the foot step of his colleague the
late Mobutu Ssese Sse Sseko Kuku Wazabanga. The state sponsored armed forces jazz band in Uganda
served the dual purpose of constructing national musical genres on one hand and developing artists in
Uganda. Some of the big names in Ugandan music that can be traced back include Moses Matovu of the
famous, Afrigo band. In 1986 marked the end of regimes terror and this changed Ugandans popular
music. The gruella fighters of the war took to the streets with guns but also took over the city with new
musical rhythms. Everyone joined in the war songs. They sang songs that melodically narrated the
soothing sounds of freedom. One of the song is Omotoo Nawakaa. The music was played only on
national TV and radios.  It provided a necessary break from the classical jazz music that the radio
presenters left in the studios of Radio Uganda played incessantly as the battle for the radio and TV
stations raged on between the warring parties during the Kampala takeover on January 25 th 1986. The
country by then had not known how to be liberal with their music. The liberation of radio in the year 1993
revolutionized the popular music. Most artist would often keep for themselves. Until the musical
production Kadongo Kamu came and change the popular music scene in Uganda. Throughout the years
other artist emerged with new genres like reggae, dancehall, hip hop, rnb, and others.

GENRES EMERGED

The Kadongo Kamu genre

This uniquely Ugandan musical production, kadongo kamu (bow-lyre) and later one-string guitar dates
back in the early 1950s, and it suffered during the turbulent Amin years. The term kadongo kamu means
one guitar in Luganda. Many of the great names like Charles Ssebaddukka populary known as jajja wa
kadongo kamu (grandfather of one string guitar) had to select discourses that were removed from
anything that could be read as a critique of the state. In fact, many artist performing this genre were
preoccupied with producing safe performances that most of the songs that they chose were always about
gender relations in domestic arena and love life. On the other hand these same performances used gender
metaphors t load their music with subversive messages of state resistance. Some of the great artist from
this genre are

Ssebadduka. Born in 1929. He started kadongokamu cultural society in the 1960s where he recruited and
trained musicians. He was one of the few musicians to perform on Independence Day at kololo airstrip.
In most of this music Ssebadduka concerned himself with what were seen as practical aspects of life but
in many ways he was also criticizing the government of Idi Amin and Obote. What Ssebadukka calls for
in these songs is underground resistance that recognizes brutal power but does not challenge that power
openly. Some of his famous songs are like, “Okuzalaa Lumbe”, “Obufimbo”, “Nantondo”, among others.
Fred Masagazi. (1927-2009). Masagazi started his music career in 1955 as a singer in a Congolese band,
Tinapa, where he sang both Congolese and Luganda. He was among the few Kadongo Kamu musicians
who could play guitar, sing and dramatize his music on stage. He founded his band called UK jazz band.
Some of his songs are “Takanawa Musolo”, “Noonya Lukia”, “Osaana Okole”, “Lucy Tuula”, “Alululu”,
“Ndiwuwo”, and “Kyali Kyetagesa”among others.

Other kadongo kamu artist are; Lord Fred Ssebatta. Tony Sego, Steve Jean, Henry Rota, Jo Tabula. Some
of these artist modernized the art of kadondo kamu by making it a disco mix frame. Tony Sego shortened
the 17-20 minute kadongo kamu style into a 3-5 minute radio and disco friendly songs.

Katemba

Katemba is a traditional popular performance genre (now turned modern?) that has redefined the
possibilities of theatrical performance. Katemba is a traditional genre that belongs to the discursive space
of theatre for entertaining the Royals. A troupe of Katemba artists was one of the many luxuries that the
King of Buganda kept in his royal court and actors would stage entertaining farces to get the King
laughing. The genre has changed in character, form and content while retaining some elements of the
traditional yet responding, answering to and stimulating new ways of entertainment. Katemba music can
be traced back to the works of jimmy katumba and the Ebonies a group that emerged in the 1980s. Artist
from this genre are like

Jimmy Katumba. (1955-2006). His music career started in the numerous church choirs to which he
belonged. He rose to fame as the country’s premier pop star from late 1970s. He was the leader of the
band the ebonies which dominated the Ugandan music scene in the 1980s and 1990s. He was popularly
known for his baritone voice. Some if his great hits are; “Twalina Omukwano”, “Drums of Africa” and
“Kukyolina”

Others like Mariam Ndagire, Kato Lubwana. Bands like; The Ebonies, Bakayimbira Dramactors, Afri
Talents, Diamond Ensemble and many others.

Dance hall/ Ragga

Dancehall music in Uganda is largely influenced by Jamaican culture and has been the most influencual
genre in Uganda over the past 20 or so years. Dance hall is characterized by fast rhythms. Most dance hall
artist in Uganda sing in their local tongue, which in most cases is Luganda. They will occasionally mimic
the Jamaican patois. Some of the notable artist in dance hall are;

Ragga Dee. Born in 1973. He started his music career in 1988. He is a raga artist who has won multiple
awards for his songs. Some of his songs are “Mpeta”, “Mukwano”, and “Bamusakata” among others.
Chameleon. Born in 1979. He is one of the most popular artists in Uganda. Chameleon sings in Luganda,
English and Swahili. He started singing in clubs where he honed a career as an MC, one which took him
to Kenya and signed himself with the ogopa djs production. Some of his hits are; “Mambo bado”,
“Vumilia”, “Kipepeo”, “Mama Mia” among others.

Other artist include. Bebe Cool

Kindandali

Kindandali is a popular style of music in Uganda. It takes after afro beats. The roots of this genre can be
traced back as far back as when Uganda got its independence and bands sprung up in various parts of the
county. This genre is also known as band music. The first band to emerge was Afrigo Band who released
their first album “Omutanda Gyali”. In 1994 it became the first group to relese their music on cd. One of
the artist from this genre was

Bobi wine. Born in 1982. His birth name is Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu. He was a leader of the group
fire base crew until its disbandment, after which he started a new group known as Ghetto Republic of
Uganja. Bobi’s style of music and the content there in resonates with rural and urban people alike and
had socially conscious message. Some of his hits are like; “Akagoma”, “Funtula” and “Sunda”. His song
“Kiwani” was featured on the soundtack for the Disney movie queen of katwe.

Hip hop/R&B

Hip hop is one of the newer genres to be widely practiced in Uganda. Hip hop, R&B in Uganda is
modeled after American R&B. There is not much history in Ugandan R&B. the two musical groups, I
Klear Kut and Bataka Squad were the first musical acts to do hip hop back in the late 1990’s. Mainstream
acceptance for the music genre was almost nonexistent by then.in the year 2008 hip hop really gained
popularity. More and more artist adapted to this style but were performing in Luganda hence the term
‘Luganda flow’. Some of the of the big names to hit Ugandan hip hop R&B are;

Keko and Navio (hip hop).

Julianna Kanyomozi, Navaa Grey, Maurice Kirya among others (R&B).

 TANZANIA

HISTORY

The first popular music craze in Tanzania was in the early 1930s, when Cuban Rumba was widespread.
Young Tanzanians organized themselves into dance clubs like the Dar es Salaam jazz band, which was
founded in 1932. .The development of Tanzanian Urban Jazz can be traced from this jazz precursor(beni
ngoma) to the influx of Zairian jazz and more contemporary styles of urban popular jazz as exemplified in
the music of Tanzania’s Mbaraka Mwinshene Mwanika.In Tanzania like in Kenya beni ngoma has its
manifestations in the coastal areas(Dar es salaam and Tanga). Local bands at the time used brass and
percussion instruments, later adding strings. A very important factor in the development of popular music
in Tanzania was the impact of Radio Tanzania. The national domestic programming service of Radio
Tanzania which broadcasted in Kiswahili primarily Tanzanian music the station on its own collected tape
recordings of Tanzanian musicians instead of depending on imported discs. This policy was a large
necessity in the development of popular music in Tanzania. The 1990s and 2000s have been characterized
with a vast majority of western and African influenced genres in Tanzania. From bongo to fusion to
rhythm and blues, the Tanzanian scene has seen the emergence of new popular music artists and new
genres. Though not well documented it is clear that Tanzania’s popular music history shares a lot in
common with that of Kenya while maintaining unique attributes that distinguish its popular music history
from that of any other country. The commercial music scene in concentrated in the urban centers,
particularly Dar es Salaam, which has a plethora of formal and informal creative industry clusters, such as
music studio venues.

GENRES EMERGED

Bongo flava

Bongo flava is a popular genre of music that includes many international genre of music like rap, ragga,
zouk and R&b. Tanzanian youth use percussive beats of electronic studio production. Few artists use live
bands. The artist rap in Swahili about issues they face in daily life. In the early perios of Swahili based
rapping, most lyrics addressed social and political issues. Nowadays, artist tend to rap as well as R&B, to
sing about love, relationship, and sex though a large portion of the population still discusses socially
conscious issues. One popular bongo flava artist today include

Diamond platnumz (1989). His birth Nasibu Abdul Juma. He has won many music awards. Diamond is
considered influential among his fans, and is said to be the most loved and decorated East and Central
African artist at the moment. He is believed to be the highest selling Tanzanian artist of ringtones by
mobile phone companies in 2013, as well as being among the artists earning the highest income in the
African Great Lakes region's music industry. Diamond also became the first African artist to accumulate
as many as 2,520,778 subscribers on his YouTube channel. Some of his hit songs are, “Lala Salama”,
“Moyo”, “Mawazo”, and “Natamani” among others.
Ali kiba. (Born in 1986). He signed a deal with Sony music entertainment. Ali Kiba released his album
Cinderella which broke record as the bestselling album in East African countries including Tanzania,
Kenya and Uganda. He is best known for his hit songs Mwana, "Aje" , "Chekecha Cheketua"
"Cinderella", "Nakshi Mrembo", "Usiniseme," "Dushelele", "Single Boy with Lady Jaydee", "Mapenzi",
"Yana Run Dunia", and "Macmuga", and for his collaboration with R. Kelly and other African musicians
on the One8 project.

Others include Juma Nature, Afande Sele, T.I.D, Venessa Mdee, Matoya, among others.

Dansi

Dansi is a form of popular dance music that draws on Congolese rumba, Cuban son traditional ngoma,
and historically European ballroom dance. Dansi groups feature anywhere from ten to forty members
depending on the number of backup musicians and dancers. Instrumentation typically consists of a
drummer, a conga or ngoma player, three guitarist (two leads and one rhythm or vice versa), bass player,
a keyboardist and several singers. The horn sections often include saxophones, trumpets and in rare cases,
trombones. Many bands have a mtindo (a style or dance) that identifies the band. Dansi songs often
address love and relationships although many, especially songs from the 1960s and 1970s, discuss
political issues or offer praise for the government. Some bands include,

Kilimanjaro Band, Mlimani Park Orchestra (formed on 1978), FM Academia, Twanga Pepeta, OTTU
Jazz Band, Msondo Ngoma Music Band, Akudo Impact and others.

Mchiriku

Mchiriku is derived from a traditional Zaramo ngoma. It preceded hip hop as a popular music among
youth and is thought to have emerged in Dar es Salaam in the early 1970s. Often consisting of traditional
drums, amplified voice and keyboard, the music flows in continuous repetitive cycles with lyrics that
address social and political issues facing local populations. Zanzibar is also a center of cultural and
musical activity, hosting several famous music groups, aided among others by cultural organizations such
as the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), Dhow Countries Music Academy (DCMA) and
Busara Promotions’ festival Sauti za Busara. With its rich history and cultural heritage, Zanzibar offers a
unique sound and blend of Arabic and African music styles, influenced by Indian, Indonesian, European
and other flavours. Zanzibar’s most famous groups remain the traditional taarab orchestras Nadi Ikhwan
Safaa and Culture Musical Club.

 RWANDA
HISTORY

In the pre-colonial era, Rwandans generally prefer vocal genres of instrumental. Rwandan music and
culture can be traced back to the royal courts of the Mwami, or the Tutsi ruler. So many Rwandan
ensembles and songs are based on the traditions established in the Mwami courts. The ingoma ensemble
is an example of an ensemble that dates back to the Mwami and still uses rhythms, such as igihubi that
was once deemed important in court. Eloquence is envied in Rwandan singing, so often times the poetry
of the lyrics is valued over the instruments or the rhythms played. Both men and women sing as opposed
to the men being generally the sole instrumentalists of Rwanda, although women have recently begun
playing instruments as well. Music was one of the activities that brought the communities together after
the genocide that happened. The genocide against the Tutsi that came to a head in 1994, but which had
started in the 1980s, disrupted music production within Rwanda. Many musicians died, while others move
overseas, bringing their country's music to cities like Brussels and Paris. For many years, Rwandan-
Belgian Cécile Kayirebwa was arguably the most internationally acclaimed Rwandan musician, until the
arrival in the late-1990s of Rwandan-Canadian Corneille and Jean-Paul Samputu. Today music is one of
the emerging sectors in Rwanda’s economy. Rwanda has a growing popular music industry, influenced
by East African, Congolese and American music. The dominant genres in Rwanda today have come into
existence after the 1994 genocide, specifically hip-hop and R&B, often blended with ragga and pop, as
well as gospel and Afro beat. More and more artist have come out with different genres and are able to
express themselves. In recent years, music production has gradually returned to where it was, the rebirth
largely spearheaded by Rwandan youth. A crop of new stars have emerged, including   Kamichi, Mani
Martin, Tom Close, Urban Boyz, King James, Knowles, Dream Boys, Riderman and Jay Polly. Many
more musicians have emerged in the the past 5 to 10 years, including Senderi International Hit, Jule
Sentore, P-Fla, Bull Dog, Fireman, Active, Diana Teta and many more.

GENRES EMERGED

Hip Hop

This is a popular style of music that featured by rap and electronic backing. Hip-hop music has been
popular among local youth in Rwanda since the early 1980s due to widespread American influence. The
first major hip-hop hit was released in the early 1980s by the most prominent figure in the early Rwandan
scene, DJ Berry (Nsabimana Abdul Aziz), a DJ with Kigali Night and Cosmos and a presenter with Radio
Rwanda, in addition to being an early rapper and breakdancer. Some of the biggest name in hip hop genre
in Rwanda are;

Diplomat, Jay Polly, Riderman, Bull Dog, Green P, Fireman, P-Fla and Ama G the Black
R&B

R&B is another popular genre dominating Rwandan music. R&B has a soulful rhythmic melody usually
paired with a silky voice. Some of the prominent artist are

King James (birth name is James Ruhumuriza) is a leading performer of R&B. He is known for his
energetic and entertaining live performances, and for releasing albums such as Umugish (2010) and
Umuvandimwe (2011). He has won several awards, including being voted Artist of the Year at the 2011
Salax Awards and winning the prestigious Primus Guma Guma Super Star 2 in 2012. He has performed
in the UK, France and Belgium.

Knowless Butera is currently the top female artist in Rwanda. In 2013 she scooped a Salax Award, one of
the most prestigious music awards in the country, organized by Ikirezi Group. In 2014 she launched her
latest album, Butera, following the success of her earlier release, Uwo ndiwe

Christopher, a nominee at the 2014 Kora Awards, is another Rwandan R&B sensation. He has released hit
songs like ‘Byanze’, ‘Irijoro’, ‘Ishema’, ‘Uwomunsi’, ‘Uwo ni nde’, ‘Habona’, ‘Birahagije’,
‘Ndabyemeye’ and ‘Babyumva’.

Other R&B artists are Bruce Melodie, Dream Boys and Tom Close

Afrobeat

This is a genre of popular music in Rwanda. It is a style that incorporates elements of African music and
jazz, soul and funk. Some popular Rwandan artists choose to make music that is less influenced by
American sounds and more by African music. This style, known as Afrobeat, has been one of the most
popular genres in Rwanda for years. Some of the artists are;

Kitoko, released his debut album Ifaranga in 2010. He is known for hits like ‘Akabuto’, ‘Ko wanyanze’
and ‘Yegwe’, among others.

Rafiki, Urban Boyz, Dr. Claude, KGB, Miss JoJo, Miss Allay and the Trinity.

 BURUNDI

HISTORY

Burundi is a Central African nation that is closely linked with Rwanda, geographically, historically and
culturally. The drum such as the karyenda is one of central importance. Internationally, the country has
produced the music group Royal Drummers of Burundi. Burundian-Belgian musicians like Éric
Baranyanka from the Burundese royal family, Ciza Muhirwa and, especially, Khadja Nin, have more
recently gained prominence. Since the music is from the mind and soul, it mainly expresses what the
people in Burundi feel and what they think when they beat the drums. Burundi has also developed a
unique take on inanga music. In what is known as Whispered Inanga, the vocalist literally whispers the
lyrics over the tonal playing of the inanga (the YouTube video provided is an example of such).This
traditional music became popular after being broadcasted and various recordings taken of this music.
Burundians still enjoy traditional pop music and it is still likely to find traditional music broadcasted.

An author and broadcaster of 15 years at the last independent radio station in Burundi, Radio Isanganiro,
has over the years through various radio and TV programmes set in motion the careers of many artists in
an industry that is far from reaching its full potential.

Popular music Burundi artists include Kidum (jean Pierre Nimbona), Steven sogo, Khadija Non and
Happy flamba amongst many others.

GENRES EMERGED

Genres emerged are like hip hop and R&B.

 SOUTH SUDAN

HISTORY

In the early nineties, the Sudanese government destroyed recordings of important cultural artefacts to
create space for propaganda. This included the wiping of unique tapes of Southern Sudanese artists such
as Yousif Fataki. It was only later that artists found strategies to overcome governmental restrictions.
Female southern Sudanese singer tactically combined styles from different regions, masking the meaning
of their songs in a different languages, mixing Dinka lyrics and ululations from the South with northern-
style synthesizer beats. When the successful hip-hop artist Emmanuel Jal collaborated with Abdel Gadir
Salim in 2005, it marked Sudan’s most optimistic cultural milestone for a long time. In South Sudan, new
music from the world's youngest country remains steeped in the area's rich musical tradition. Wayo
combine spiritual chanting with interlocking grooves. The mesmerizing music, centered on the
kpaningbo, a large wooden xylophone played by three people, is completed by the rest of village, who
rotate through a series of bells and percussive instruments. Since south Sudan got its independence in the
year 2011 it doesn’t have a lot of history when it comes to their music as a country on its own. However
they share the same history as the rest of the Sudan nation. From the early 1920s onwards, radio, records,
film and television have contributed to the development of Sudanese popular music by introducing new
instruments and styles. As Sudan was administered as an Anglo-Egyptian condominium from 1899 to
1955, British military bands have left their mark, especially through the musical training of Sudanese
soldiers and by introducing Western brass instruments or even the Scottish bagpipes. Until today, these
marching bands represent a characteristic element in the parades for Independence Day or other official
celebrations. In the 1960s, American pop stars became well known, which had a profound effect on
Sudanese musicians like Osman Alamu and Ibrahim Awad, the latter becoming the first Sudanese
musician to dance onstage. Under these influences, Sudanese popular music saw a further Westernization,
with the introduction of guitars and brass instruments; guitars came from the south of the country, played
like the Congolese guitar styles. Congolese music like soukous, as well as Cuban rumba, exerted a
profound influence on Sudanese popular music. International popular genres like Western dance music,
rock or pop music and African-American music, have had a profound effect on modern Sudanese music.

GENRES EMERGED

Afro pop

Afro-pop is considered the most popular musical genre in South Sudan and is a combination various
African music styles with elements of western popular music, often with electrically amplifies
instrumentation. Some of the afro pop artist in south Sudan are;

Yaba Angelosi. He has popularized south Sudan’s hip hop internationally. He was Born Angelo Maku in
South Sudan’s capital city of Juba, the artist immigrated to the US in 2000 and has been keen on
developing his musical career. Angelosi’s music mixes catchy African traditional sounds with Western
dance. He uses modern instrumentation and arrangements. He has performed internationally, including at
The White House, during Sudan’s Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA). His well-known singles
include ‘Junubia’ and ‘Egoba’.

Khor DJ. Khor’s sound is always evolving. Born Khor Deng Jang in 2008, the artist was awarded the Best
Male Award for his single ‘Abibi’ at the now defunct Miraya FM Awards. Following this recognition
Khor embarked on national tours singing in clubs and touring many regions in the country. He was the
only artist living outside South Sudan who was invited to perform at the South Sudan independence
celebrations in 2011. His latest single ‘Tuok Thare jin’ (You began it) continues to enjoy airplay. The
song advises people to be cautious of tribalism and any other issues that may cause differences among
them and disrupt the peace.

Other artists are Mr. Leng and Mary Mboyo.

Popular music’s contributions to socio-cultural, academic and political issues.

Artist of popular music carry some kind of influence, whether or not they are aware or not aware. The
sounds and messages they release through music, directly impact the listeners in powerful ways. Popular
music has contributed to socio-cultural through many ways. Music has influenced positively and
negatively to the society. Negatively for example in Kenya the genre genge tone is endorsed by lack of
creativity. Most of the artist in this genre are driven by violence and sex. This would end up molding
negatively of cultural values and morals that we know. Positive. Music has influence people to be more
creative by expressing themselves more through fashion. A genre like hip hop in the 80s and 90s hip hop
was associated with a colorful dress codes and leather. Hip hop has evolved and so are the people.
Nowadays people are free to wear anything. Popular music’s contribution to academics. As much as
music is all about entertainment, we also can get educated from it. Genre like twist, artist would sing
about domestic violence. This would made one aware of what was going on and be able to do something
about it. Songs like that would impact and educate the society. Popular music’s contribution to political
issues. Genres like Kadongo Kamu was all about storytelling and also talking about the regime of idi
Amin. Artist would express themselves through those ways. When president Museveni took over he was
able to bring back the freedom and people were more liberal and music begun to flourish. A genre like
mchiriku would praise some politicians through their music.
REFERENCE

1) Musicinafrica.net

2) Popular Music in Kenya, Roberts (1968)

3) “Appendix A.: DESCRIPTIONS OF TANZANIAN GENRES OF MUSIC.” Live from Dar es Salaam:
Popular Music and Tanzania's Music Economy, by Alex Perullo, Indiana University Press, Bloomington;
Indianapolis, 2011, pp. 363–368. JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctt1dnnc0h.16. Accessed 27 Jan. 2020.

4) ‘From War Cacophonies to Rhythms of Peace’ Popular Cultural Music in Post-1986 Uganda

5) John Storm (1982) a history of Kenyan guitar music (1954-1980)

6) https://worldmusic.net/blogs/guide-to-world-music/the-music-of-sudan-south-sudan-divided-together