Rosa Ree named among Africa's top 10 female rappers

Dar es Salaam. Tanzanian hip-hop sensation Rosa Ree placed among the top 10 African female rappers making waves in the music industry by The Recording Academy.

This prestigious recognition coincides with the Academy's celebration of Women's History Month, spotlighting the remarkable contributions of women to the world of music.

Rosa Ree took to her Instagram account to share the acknowledgment, encouraging all music enthusiasts in Africa to support the queens who are making strides in the music scene.

In her caption, she emphasised the importance of respecting and uplifting female artistes who are balancing their careers while shouldering societal responsibilities.

“Dear Tanzania, East Africa, and Africa, always give your support to all the queens doing it big. We put in work while also raising the next generation and carrying societal burdens on our backs! Respect to all the queens in this article as well as all the others doing their thing. Even when it least seems like it, trust me, someday, IT WILL PAY OFF,” reads her caption.

Rosa Ree's journey to the top began in 2016 when she burst onto the Bongo hip-hop scene with her breakout hit, ‘One Time’.

This track not only captivated audiences but also garnered the attention of industry heavyweights, including Kenyan rapper Khaligraph Jones, who later collaborated with her on a remix.

Under 'The Industry' record label, Rosa Ree dominated the hip-hop scene with a string of chart-topping hits like 'Dow,' 'Up in the Air,' 'One Way,' and numerous collaborations before leaving the label.

In 2022, Rosa Ree clinched the East Africa Arts Entertainment Awards (EAEA) People's Choice as 'Best Female Rapstar/Hip-Hop Act' and secured two awards from the Tanzania Music Awards (TMA) in 2023 for 'Best Female Artiste in Tanzania' and 'Best Hip-Hop Song of the Year.'

In her fearless 2022 single "I'm Not Sorry," Rosa Ree boldly rejects criticism and stands firm in her authenticity.

Meanwhile, her poignant 2023 release, "Mama Omollo," explores the profound bond between mother and child, showcasing her versatility as an artiste.

With her introspective 2024 single "In Too Deep," Rosa Ree delves into themes of emotional turmoil and betrayal, solidifying her status as a multifaceted artiste.

The Recording Academy's acknowledgment of Rosa Ree underscores the growing recognition of bongo hip-hop on the global stage.

Alongside Rosa Ree, other notable African female rappers recognised by The Academy include Femi One from Kenya, South Africa’s Sho Madjozi, Zimbabwean-South African rapper Nadia Nakai, and Eno Barony from Ghana.

Others are Lifesize Teddy, Deela, Deto Black and Candy Bleakz from Nigeria.

Furthermore, the Academy pays tribute to Nazizi Hirji, Kenyan rap, for her ground-breaking achievements at the tender age of 16.