Top singeli songs of 2022

Fuelled by the raw energy of restless youth, the genre has imprinted itself not only on the Tanzanian cultural landscape but is making waves on the world stage.

Born in the working-class districts of Dar es Salaam a little over 10 years ago, singeli unabashedly explores the joys and struggles of living on the margins of an urban promise. With balmy, dusty backstreets serving as the backdrop for its purveyors, the music, delivered at a dizzying 200 to 300 bpm, is an invitation to a block party. Here rappers or singers display their lyrical prowess while homegirls try to outdo each other executing a titillating dance routine known on these shores as chura.

Part social commentary, the musicians hold the mirror up pointing out what ails their communities. The songs also delve into romance and ‘sexual misadventures’.

As the year comes to a close, Music In Africa invites you to savour this East African urban sound that has gone on to capture the imagination of a nation.

Below are some of the singeli songs that music lovers have been gyrating to on Tanzanian dance floors in 2022.

Singeli Twista – Sholo Mwamba ft. AY Masta

Pita Huku – Dulla Makabila

Demu Wangu – Meja Kunta ft. Mabantu

Ndo Mimi – Mtanga MC

Tafuta Hela – Mchina Mweusi ft. Fido

Kuchi Kuchi – Snura ft. Kinata MC

Jasho – Msaga Sumu ft. Chege

Mambo Bado – Msaga Sumu

Acheni Nidange – Meddy Brand

My Wangu – Dogo Mallo

Ukinichiti – Seneta Kilaka

Yule Yule – Kadilida

Hauna Moyo – Zacky Stopper

Power – Meja Kunta

Jibinue – Mzee wa Bwax ft. Kayumba

Nampakia Mkongo – Mzee Wa Bwax ft. Elisha

Wanaongea – Dulla Makabila ft. Ngajupa

Cheusi Cheupe – Ommy Dimpoz ft. Meja Kunta

Mshono Zacky – Stopper

Kafubaa Mzee Wa Bwax ft. Zungu – Macha

Sema Kweli – Dulla Makabila

Chawa Seneta – Kilaka

Stress – Balaa MC

Unanikosha – Dogo Elisha