Diamond, Zuchu reign as king and queen of the Tanzanian music charts
What you need to know:
- Diamond and Zuchu not only reigned supreme on the charts but also helped pave the way for new talent while fuelling collaboration-driven success that further shaped the music scene.
Dar es Salaam. The year 2024 has been a defining one for Tanzania’s music scene, marked by a surge of breakout hits, unforgettable albums, and a host of rising stars reshaping the landscape.
Yet, it was Diamond Platnumz and Zuchu who stood out as the undisputed rulers of the Tanzanian charts, solidifying their dominance as the king and queen of the industry.
According to Boomplay Tanzania’s latest report, Diamond and Zuchu not only reigned supreme on the charts but also helped pave the way for new talent while fuelling collaboration-driven success that further shaped the music scene.
The year kicked off with Diamond Platnumz continuing to assert his place at the top of the charts with his infectious hit, Mapoz.
The song not only encapsulated his signature sound but also demonstrated his enduring power in a rapidly evolving industry.
Trailing Diamond in popularity was Hakuna Matata by Marioo, a track that resonated with audiences thanks to its catchy rhythm and relatable message.
Juma Jux’s soulful Nisiulizwe also made its mark, securing a well-deserved spot in the top five, while Jay Melody’s smooth and cool Baridi continued to cement his status as one of the rising stars of Tanzanian music.
Also read: Marioo's 'Hakuna Matata': A nine-day adventure across Tanzania
When it came to albums, Jay Melody’s Therapy was the standout release of the year. Known for its smooth vocals and introspective lyrics, the album resonated deeply with fans, proving to be a favourite on streaming platforms.
Other notable albums included D Voice’s Swahili Kid and Harmonize’s Visit Bongo, both of which left a lasting impression and contributed to shaping the year's musical landscape
Zuchu: The reigning queen of Tanzanian music
Zuchu was undoubtdly the queen of Tanzanian music in 2024. Known for her powerful voice and commanding stage presence, she captivated audiences across the nation.
With her seamless fusion of pop, bongo flava, and romance, Zuchu’s chart-topping hits and successful collaborations ensured her place at the top of the female music scene.
Her reign as the leading female artiste was undeniable, and her influence continued to grow throughout the year.
Behind Zuchu was Nandy, whose commanding vocals and stage presence earned her a place as one of Tanzania's top female artistes.
Other notable female stars like Phina, Yammitz, and Bella Kombo also made significant waves.
The rise of new talent
2024 wasn’t only about the established superstars. A new wave of talented artistes began to emerge, marking a shift in the future of Tanzanian music.
Artistes like Obby Alpha, DJ Mushizo Utawauwa, and Buki captured the attention of listeners, quickly gaining traction and proving that the next generation of Tanzanian musicians is already there.
Their rapidly growing fan bases signal that 2024 was just the beginning, and their careers are ones to watch.
Moments defined by music
Boomplay’s report also highlighted songs that became the soundtracks to specific moments.
Jux’s Nisiulizwe set the perfect tone for early mornings, while Jay Melody’s Baridi became the go-to anthem for evening relaxation.
But it was Zuchu’s Zawadi, released for Valentine’s Day, that truly captured hearts. The song became the go-to expression of love for couples across Tanzania, showcasing Zuchu’s innate ability to create an unforgettable romantic anthem.
A rising star
While Diamond and Zuchu continued to dominate, newcomer Treyza made a notable impact in 2024. His track, Okay, became the most-streamed song by a new artiste, quickly gaining a large following.
Treyza’s fresh sound and powerful delivery have helped him carve out his space in the Tanzanian music scene, and he is undoubtedly a rising star to watch in the years to come.
As we look ahead to 2025, it’s clear that the reign of Diamond and Zuchu is set to continue, and Tanzanian music will undoubtedly keep flourishing with exciting new developments and rising stars on the horizon.