The latest Tanzania Apple Music chart has sent shockwaves across the Bongo Flava community. Out of the Top 10 songs, only Harmonize – Leo (feat. Mbosso) and Marioo – OLUWA represent Tanzanian music. The rest of the chart is dominated by international hits, from Nigeria to South Africa.
Dave & Tems – Raindance
Harmonize – Leo (feat. Mbosso)
mikeeysmind, Chill77 & Unjaps – Papaoutai (Afro Soul)
Myztro & Leehleza – Tobetsa 3.0 (feat. ShaunMusiq & Ftears)
DJ Smallz, ZinedinexSguche & 031choppa – ZEP (feat. Uncool MC)
JAZZWRLD, Thukuthela & Babalwa M – uValo (feat. Dlala Thukzin)
Emanuel Nicarios – Nitaamini by Voice of Hope Band
TxC, Davido, Scotts Maphuma & Shoday – Nakupenda (feat. Al Xapo & Zlatan)
Marioo – OLUWA
What’s happening to Bongo Flava?
The numbers speak for themselves. While Harmonize and Marioo are holding their own, the overwhelming presence of global hits highlights a worrying trend: local music is losing its dominance in its own backyard. Factors driving this shift include:
Streaming power of international hits: Platforms like Apple Music favor songs with high global streams. Artists like Dave & Tems automatically dominate due to massive listenership outside Tanzania.
Collaborations over competition: Many top songs feature cross-border collaborations, making them more attractive to regional and global audiences.
Marketing and playlist strategies: Local Bongo Flava tracks often lack the digital marketing push that international acts enjoy, limiting their exposure.
Implications for Bongo Flava stakeholders:
Artists: Must innovate, focus on collaborations, and leverage social media trends to stay relevant.
Producers & Labels: High-quality production, strategic promotion, and global partnerships are now essential.
Fans & Media: Streams, shares, and playlist support directly impact chart positions. Local music survival depends on active promotion.
The Bottom Line:
Bongo Flava is no longer guaranteed a top spot on Tanzania charts. From Harmonize to Marioo, the fight to dominate is real, and only a combination of creativity, strategy, and fan support will ensure Tanzanian music keeps its place—both at home and on the global stage.