The Electronic Dance song genre known as “Singeli” originated in Tanzania in the middle of the 2000s. The style incorporates MCing, extremely fast beats—typically between 180 and 300 BPM—as well as musical elements from traditional Tanzanian styles including Taarab, Mchiriku, Segere, and Bongo Flava. The hectic atmosphere is heightened by the frequent pitch-shifting of instruments, samples, and vocals.
“Singeli” originated in the “kigodoro” scene of Tanzania, which was characterized by all-night raves featuring indigenous music and foam mattresses on which partygoers would fall asleep after a long night of dancing. In Tanzania, the genre became one of the most well-liked musical genres in the 2010s as it gained popularity throughout the nation. Even far more poppy and melodic strains of the genre maintain the breakneck tempo that makes it unique, ranging from rough DIY production with fierce MCing about street life. In the late 2010s, the distinctive genre attracted prominence on a global scale thanks to the work of the label Nyege Nyege Tapes.
The genre, which is propelled by the unbridled energy of restless young, has left its mark not only on Tanzanian culture but is also causing a stir internationally.
As the year draws to a close, Kemi Filani News Music invites you to enjoy this urban music from East Africa that has since captured the attention of an entire country.
The “singeli” tunes that Tanzanian dance floors have been gyrating to in 2022 are listed below.
Demu Wangu – Meja Kunta ft. Mabantu
Singeli Twista – Sholo Mwamba ft. AY Masta
Ndo Mimi – Mtanga MC
Jasho – Msaga Sumu ft. Chege
Kuchi Kuchi – Snura ft. Kinata MC
Yule Yule – Kadilida
Power – Meja Kunta
Hauna Moyo – Zacky Stopper
Nampakia Mkongo – Mzee Wa Bwax ft. Elisha
Cheusi Cheupe – Ommy Dimpoz ft. Meja Kunta
Mshono Zacky – Stopper
Unanikosha – Dogo Elisha
