The Best East African Songs of 2024 So Far
The best songs to come out of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and DR Congo this year so far.
A scene from Bien and Fally Ipupa’s “Ma Cherie (Remix).
East Africa continues to showcase its rich musical talent, offering a diverse array of sounds and stories. In the past six months, the region has witnessed the growing influence of amapiano, particularly in Tanzanian music. This genre's infectious beats have seamlessly blended with local styles, creating a unique musical experience.
Additionally, cross-collaborations across the region and continent have resulted in dynamic musical synergies.
Meanwhile, the members of Kenya's biggest band, Sauti Sol, are expanding their solo careers following the group's hiatus.
From bongo flava (a Kiswahili nickname for Tanzanian music) to gengetone (Kenyan hip-hop), this list showcases artists from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and DR Congo, making their mark.D Star - "Hoozambe" (Uganda)
"Hoozambe" is the latest Ugandan hit by D Star that is taking East Africa by storm. The song cheekily narrates the story of an affair gone wrong, where a young woman cheats on her older husband with a younger and more virile lover. Despite its playfully provocative lyrics, the song's catchy chorus and unique music videos have made it a favorite in clubs and a sensation on TikTok.
Diamond Platnumz - “Mapoz” feat. Mr. Blue & Jay Melody (Tanzania)
Diamond Platnumz continues to stamp his mark as Tanzania’s biggest musician, dropping this bongo flava hit in January. This time he features fellow Tanzanian artists Mr. Blue and Jay Melody on the hit song.
Fathermoh, Harry Craze, Ndovu Kuu, Lil Maina and Johnny Johnny - "KUDADE" (Kenya)
"KUDADE" is a collaborative track featuring some of Kenya's top artists: Fathermoh, Harry Craze, Ndovu Kuu, Lil Maina and Johnny Johnny. The song masterfully blends gengetone, creating an infectious rhythm that has made it a hit at parties and events across the country. The just as popular remix was produced by Sauti Sol’s Fancy Fingers.
Rayvanny & Harmonize - "SENSEMA" (Tanzania)
"SENSEMA" is a hit song by Tanzanian stars Rayvanny and Harmonize, showcasing amapiano’s influence on the Tanzanian music scene.
Element Eleéeh - "MiLELE" (Rwanda)
"MiLELE" is a soulful song by Rwandan singer/producer Element Eleéeh, known for his 2023 hit "Fou de Toi." “MiLELE's emotional depth and beautiful composition have made it a YouTube hit and perfect for weddings and romantic occasions. Element Eleéeh is pioneeringAfro-gako, a subgenre blending traditional Rwandese gakondo with Afrobeats.
Savara - "Wewe ni Fire" feat. Murumba Pitch (Kenya)
Savara, a member of the renowned Kenyan band Sauti Sol, recently released his first solo album, “No Overthinking” in May. “Wewe ni Fire,” a collaboration with South Africa’s Murumba Pitch, is a standout. This release comes on the heels of Sauti Sol's announcement of their indefinite hiatus last year, allowing each member to explore individual projects.
Zuchu - "SIji" feat. Toss (Tanzania)
"SIji" is a collaboration between Tanzanian singer Zuchu, the daughter of the legendary Taarab singer Khadija Kopa, and South African artist Toss. The song blends bongo flava with Amapiano beats. You can also check out, Zawadi, Zuchu’s other big hit from this year.
Ya Levis - “Rien a dire” (DR Congo)
The Congolese hitmaker continues to dominate the East African airwaves with his latest hit “Rien a dire” (“Nothing to say”).
Lil Maina and SosaTheProdigy - “Nakam Sai” (Kenya)
"Nakam Sai" is an electrifying collaboration between Kenyan artists Lil Maina and SosaTheProdigy. This track blends energetic beats with witty lyrics, capturing the essence of contemporary Kenyan youth culture.
Mbosso - "Kunguru" (Tanzania)
"Kunguru" by Tanzanian artist Mbosso, of “Hodari” fame, is a beautiful love song. Mbosso's smooth vocals and the song's heartfelt lyrics have made it a hit on both radio and streaming platforms.
Chriss Eazy - "Sekoma" (Rwanda)
"Sekoma" is a vibrant track from Rwandan singer Chriss Eazy, that combines traditional Rwandan sounds with modern production, making it a popular choice for both dance floors and cultural events.
Nikita Kering - “Let You Down” feat. Kemena (Kenya)
After a year-long hiatus, Kenyan R&B sensation Nikita Kering delivers a soulful track alongside Nigerian artist Kemena.
Bien - “Ma Cherie (remix)” feat. Fally Ipupa (Kenya/DRC)
Another Sauti Sol star, Bien’s new music has been well-received since releasing his debut solo album, AIusa Why Are You Topless late last year. Now, he has remixed “Ma Cherie,” one of the popular songs on the album, with Congolese sensation Fally Ipupa.
Nandy - “Dah!” feat. Alikiba (Tanzania)
Nandy, the African Princess knew that adding “King Kiba” to her already popular song, “Dah” would take it to a new level. With over 13 million views on YouTube since its release in February, the collaboration continues to shine.
Marioo - “Hakuna Matata” (Tanzania)
Tanzanian singer Marioo released the love ballad, amapiano banger “Hakuna Matata” in April.
Nyashinski - "Vibes" (Kenya)
"Vibes" by Kenyan singer/rapper Nyashinski, once part of the popular Kleptomaniax music group, is a mellow, easy-flowing track. It is the first of two songs he has released in recent months.
Fancy Fingers - “All Over Me” feat. Xenia Manasseh by (Kenya)
Another entry from Sauti Sol star, Fancy Fingers, on the list. This time he collaborates on this sensual song with Kenyan songstress Xeniah Manasseh. The song is from his third solo album in recent years, Love Language, which features female artists only from across the African continent.
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