Tanzanian music is rich in culture and diversity, and it is evident in the various genres that exist. One of the genres that have similarities to kizomba and semba is known as “Bongo Flava.” Bongo Flava is a fusion of traditional Tanzanian music with elements of hip hop, R&B, and reggae. This fusion has created a unique sound that is distinctively Tanzanian.
Bongo Flava has similarities to kizomba and semba in the sense that it emphasizes the connection between the dancers and the music. The rhythm of the music is slow and sensual, and the dancers move with grace and fluidity. The dance style associated with Bongo Flava is called “Bongo Dance,” which is a slow and sensual dance that emphasizes close body contact.
One of the artists who exemplify the similarities between Bongo Flava and kizomba is Diamond Platnumz. Diamond Platnumz is a Tanzanian musician who has gained international recognition for his music. His song “Nasema Nawe” is a prime example of the slow and sensual rhythm that is characteristic of Bongo Flava. The music video for the song features Diamond Platnumz and his dance partner moving with grace and fluidity, showcasing the close body contact that is a hallmark of kizomba and semba.
Another artist who embodies the similarities between Tanzanian music and kizomba is Vanessa Mdee. Vanessa Mdee is a Tanzanian singer and songwriter who has gained popularity for her unique sound that fuses various genres. Her song “Niroge” is a perfect example of the slow and sensual rhythm that is characteristic of Bongo Flava. The music video for the song features Vanessa Mdee and her dance partner moving with grace and fluidity, showcasing the close body contact that is a hallmark of kizomba and semba.
In conclusion, Tanzanian music has similarities to kizomba and semba in the sense that it emphasizes the connection between the dancers and the music. Bongo Flava is a fusion of traditional Tanzanian music with elements of hip hop, R&B, and reggae, and this fusion has created a unique sound that is distinctively Tanzanian. Artists such as Diamond Platnumz and Vanessa Mdee exemplify the slow and sensual rhythm that is characteristic of Bongo Flava, showcasing the close body contact that is a hallmark of kizomba and semba.
Reference:
- Nyambara, E. (2016). The Globalization of African Music: Experiences from Tanzania. African Music, 11(4), 43-53.
- Diamond Platnumz – Nasema Nawe ft. Khadija Kopa. (2014, November 26). Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWDsvKU2iCc
- Vanessa Mdee – Niroge (Official Music Video). (2013, September 17). Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZOXfCdnqh88.
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