10 years of transformation, triumph and timeless music for Konde

As 2025 rolls in, Tanzanian music sensation Harmonize is preparing to celebrate a landmark in his career—10 years of making waves in the music industry.

This momentous milestone marks a decade of growth, innovation, and success for the artiste who first made his name in the world of Bongo Flava with the hit track Aiyola in 2015.

Signed by the legendary WCB Wasafi label, founded by fellow superstar Diamond Platnumz, Harmonize’s rise to fame was rapid and undeniable.

His debut single, Aiyola, not only captured the hearts of Tanzanians but resonated across Africa, setting the stage for a career that would redefine Bongo Flava.

With a video that cost an eye-watering 39 million Tanzanian shillings, it was clear from the start that Harmonize’s team was committed to presenting him as a global talent.

His journey from a promising newcomer to one of Africa’s most celebrated artists was accelerated by his constant dedication to creating captivating music.

In 2016, just one year after his debut, Harmonize won the AFRIMMA Award for Best New Artist, confirming that he was a rising star.

That same year, he released his Afro Bongo EP, collaborating with African icons such as Burna Boy, Yemi Alade, and Mr. Eazi, expanding his reach beyond Tanzania to the global stage.

But Harmonize’s journey has not been without its challenges. In late 2019, after four successful years with WCB Wasafi, Harmonize took a bold step that would reshape his career—he left the label.

This decision, which followed in the footsteps of his fellow artist Rich Mavoko, sparked a legal battle, with Harmonize reportedly paying a hefty Sh600 million to exit his 10-year contract and take ownership of his music.

While it was a risky move, it ultimately paid off, allowing Harmonize the creative freedom he craved.

That same year, he founded Konde Music Worldwide, his own label, and swiftly signed six talented artistes, including Ibraah, who would go on to become the first artiste introduced under the new label.

Ibraah’s debut EP Steps (2020), which featured Joeboy, Skibii, and Harmonize, was a hit, establishing Konde Music as a serious player in the Tanzanian music scene.

The first album under Konde Music, Afro East (2020), was a testament to Harmonize’s growth as an artist and entrepreneur.

Launched by former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete at a grand event in Dar es Salaam, Afro East featured collaborations with top artists like Mr. Blue, Lady Jaydee, Morgan Heritage, Khaligraph Jones, and Phyno, solidifying Harmonize's place as one of the most influential African artists of his generation.

This album marked the beginning of Harmonize’s annual album releases, which now include High School (2021), Made For Us (2022), Visit Bongo (2023), and Muziki wa Samia (2024), the latter of which was launched by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

The success of Visit Bongo (2023), which took home the Album of the Year award at the Tanzania Music Awards (TMA), was yet another crowning achievement for Harmonize, who now boasts six TMA wins.

The ‘Single Again’ hitmarker is one of the most awarded Tanzanian artistes of all time, joining the ranks of other major stars like Diamond Platnumz and Zuchu.

Harmonize’s consistency in delivering quality music and maintaining relevance in a competitive industry speaks to his enduring appeal.

But Harmonize’s achievements are not just measured in awards. His music videos have become landmarks in African entertainment, with Kwangwaru (2018)—a collaboration with Diamond Platnumz—being the first of his videos to hit over 100 million views on YouTube.

By November 2023, he joined an elite group of East African artistes whose videos have surpassed a billion views on the platform, alongside Diamond Platnumz and Rayvanny.

On a continental scale, his success on YouTube places him in competition with African giants like Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, and Rema.

‘Bedroom’ singer’s influence stretches far beyond Tanzania. Over the years, he’s worked with an impressive array of international artists from across the African continent and beyond.

His collaborations with Nigerian stars like Ruger and Phyno, Rwandan artistes such as Bruce Melodie, South Africa’s Nkosazana Daughter, and Kenyan musician Bien have not only broadened his fanbase but have also helped solidify his reputation as a pan-African artiste.

Harmonize’s relationship with his homegrown talent has also been significant.

His partnership with Anjella, a former Konde Music artiste, has led to some of his most popular tracks, including All Night (2021) and Kioo (2022), among others.

This collaboration has shown his willingness to nurture and elevate new talent, further cementing his legacy as an influential figure in the Bongo Flava genre.

As Harmonize reflects on a decade in the industry, his journey serves as a reminder of the power of persistence, reinvention, and vision.

From his breakout in 2015 to his independence in 2019 and his continuing evolution as both an artiste and a businessman, Harmonize has proven that success isn’t just about hitting the right notes—it’s about knowing when to break away and create something new.

Looking forward, the next decade promises even greater things for Harmonize.

As he continues to shape the future of African music, his influence will undoubtedly extend beyond borders, and his legacy will endure for years to come.

Here's to the next chapter in the remarkable journey of one of Africa's brightest stars!