Emerging Tanzania: Tofa Jaxx

His sophomore EP A Guy Like Me, which arrived earlier this month, is a collection of tracks released in the past five years. Tofa’s artistry is full of depth, colour and passion – he lays his heart and soul out for all to see, hear and feel.

Released on Germany-based music agency Delicious Tunes, which signed Tofa in March, the EP sets a foundation for greatness and establishes the 26 year old firmly in the East African alt-R&B scene.

In Tofa’s view, drive is what makes an artist great. Since taking fourth place in the Airtel Trace Music Star singing contest in 2014-15, the then 19 year old decided to devote himself to his music.

“It’s all about discipline, vision and being faithful to the music,” he says. But in the end, Tofa knows he can’t control how his music will be received: “It’s not up to me. But if I make it from the heart and my truth, people will notice.”

Music In Africa spoke with Tofa about his new EP, why signing with Delicious Tunes was a good fit, and much more.

MUSIC IN AFRICA: How has your year been so far?

TOFA JAXX: The year has been promising despite the ongoing pandemic. I’m making progress with my music – I signed with Delicious Tunes, released my second EP and the first video of the year, ‘Umenikaa’, as well as launched a merchandise line.

What goals are you trying to accomplish, and how will the new deal with Delicious Tunes help you attain them?

I’m looking to introduce my sound to the international market. The agency understands my vision and allows me to maintain and be who I am. I look forward to a significant presence on the major streaming platforms, performances and tours at major music stages worldwide, and financial independence, leading to investment.

How does the new EP reflect your growth as an artist since your first EP Middle 8?

One thing about me is that I constantly challenge myself to be a better musician. When I first started singing, I didn’t have any style of my own. Now I have my way of singing. Middle 8 was a classic introduction, while A Guy Like Me shows growth in songwriting. It’s important for me to keep the message simple and straightforward. It has just been released and so far the response has been really good.

How would you describe your music?

I see my music as mellow and for anyone to relax to. I aim for my listener to not feel alone when they listen to me, so I give them a bit of hope and put a little swing on their hip.

You’re quite flexible when it comes to genres. What do you atribute this to?

I grew up listening to Dully Sykes, Muumin Juma, Lady Jaydee, T.I.D and Kilimanjaro Band. These artists were the epitome of my inspiration, especially my melodic arrangements. But of course, I was exposed to other genres like soul, Afrobeat, reggae and jazz. My sound is a compilation of all these sounds, and I am sure it will evolve as I get acquainted with new genres.

How important is social media to you?

I use social media for visibility, reach and interaction with my fans. I try my best to keep up, but sometimes it feels like a full-time job [laughs].

The cost of internet access is relatively high in Tanzania. How does this impact you and other artists?

Our online presence is presently limited. We need convenient internet data plans, especially now during the pandemic, when we do not make enough money to afford the new rates.

How is life like for an alternative R&B artist in Tanzania?

The existing system is not as conducive for the alternative scene; there aren’t many showcase platforms and A&R services. So artists have to handle production costs, management and marketing on their own.

You spent a few months in the UK between 2017 and 2018. How did that impact you as an artist?

The experience of working with various musicians and producers taught me the value of cultural diversity. I realised that the music industry landscape there is quite favourable for growing artists, unlike here.

Which artists do you currently enjoy listening to?

I’S listening to American singer Mereba, Adekunle Gold and Black Coffee. My current favourite song is ‘Afande’ by Skinshape and Idd Aziz.

How do you feel about the new Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan? And as a creative, what areas would you want her government to prioritise?

It’s very early to say anything about her rule, but from the few speeches I’ve heard, she’s quite an iron lady! I’m not quite a politics guy [laughs], but I’m rooting for her. The new government should prioritise the respect of artists’ intellectual rights. Music consumers must comply with the payment of royalties to help us earn accordingly from our work.