The 9 Best East African Songs of the Month

From upbeat dancehall renditions to soothing indie-soul performances, here are our favorite East African songs of the month.

Mankind "Take and Go"

Made up of singers MANE and the Cloak, Mankind is a Kenyan alternative pop duo known for their experimental sound. The group recently signed a deal with Pine Creek Records and Sony Music and they do not seem to be slowing down at all. "Take and Go," their new single, is a funky and sonically-rich step forward for the Kenyan music scene.

Dully Sykes ft. Harmonize "Kadamshi"

Known as the pioneer of bongo flava music, Dully Sykes has been around since the early 2000s. His new single "Kadamshi" proves that the Tanzanian icon has still got it. He enlists "Kwa Ngwaru" hit maker Harmonize on this infectious, dance-ready bongo tune dedicated to all the beautiful ladies out there.

Vinka "Omukwano Gwo"

Vinka is loved for her dynamic and upbeat dancehall style. The Ugandan pop star recently dropped yet another scorcher "Omukwano Gwo." It's already one of the most-played songs in Kampala's club scene.

Wuod Baba "Akinyi"

Wuod Baba is an up-and-coming artist whose vernacular rap style is a refreshing display of authenticity in the Kenyan hip-hop scene. In his new single, "Akinyi," Wuod Baba flexes his lyrical prowess and effortless flow over an explosive trap beat. Akinyi is a name given to a Luo girl who is born very early in the morning. The song is about a young independent girl with high levels of positive energy and is always winning.

Mbosso "Hodari"

"Hodari" is the latest hit single by highflying Wasafi records signee Mbosso. Produced by Lizer and Rash Don, this song flawlessly blends the seductive melodies of Bongo and Taarab music. What a jam!

Wanja Wohoro Matriarch

Kenyan indie-soul artist Wanja Wohoro released her highly-anticipated debut album MATRIARCH this month. In this 9-track LP, the talented singer and multi-instrumentalist explores the journey of contemporary womanhood through a personal lens. Bolstered by some of East Africa's top instrumentalists, Matriarchis a stunningly well-crafted debut.

Aslay "Kwatu"

Aslay's winning streak continues with his new single "Kwatu," a feel-good bongo flava love song.

Fik Fameika "Tonsukuma"

It seems that Fik Fameica has finally earned the respect and love of many in the East African music scene. His latest club-starter "Tonsokuma" is undeniably catchy and joins the list of hit songs the young rapper has dished out this year.

Ben Pol ft. Harmonize "Why"

Tanzanian superstars Ben Pol and Harmonize team up for "Why," a bongo flava love song that is full of lush harmonies and poignant lyrics.