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Abdu Hamid Said, popularly known as Kontawa (born July 12, 1996, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania), is Tanzanian rapper singer, songwriter, actor, model, and brand influencer. In 2023, he won the Best Upcoming Artist of the Year award at the 2022 Tanzania Music Awards.[1] In 2024, he was nominated among the best Rappers at the Tanzania Music Awards.[2]
Early life
editKontawa was born and raised in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. He developed an interest in music from an early age, and his upbringing in Tanzania's vibrant cultural environment influenced his musical style, which blends genres such as hip hop, bongo flava, and singeli.[3]
Musical career
editKontawa entered the Tanzanian music scene in 2019 with his debut single Sura ya Baba.[4] Kontawa has since released several other popular tracks, including Champion Ft. Nay Wa Mitego,[5] Champion Remix Ft. Harmonize,[6][7] Dunga Mawe,[8][9] Mwalimu[10] and Daktari.
His music often reflects everyday life experiences and societal themes, which resonate with his fans. He is frequently compared to the late Tanzanian rapper GodZilla. Kontawa has acknowledged hearing such comparisons for many years, stating that it is an honor to be linked to such an iconic figure.[11]
In March 2023, Kontawa collaborated with Maua Sama on the single Sikuachi.[12]
Awards and recognition
editAt the 2023 Tanzania Music Awards, Kontawa was named Best Upcoming Artist.[13] His talent and impact were further acknowledged in November 2023 by Madee, the legendary Bongo flava musician, who praised Kontawa as one of the most promising artists of the year.[14]
Performances and collaborations
editKontawa has performed at various high-profile events across Tanzania. One notable performance took place on June 12, 2023, at a Boomplay-sponsored event in Mbeya, where he shared the stage with other Bongo Flava artists such as Stamina, Kelvine Scapla, and Meja Kunta. This event was part of a campaign organized by Boomplay and TECNO Mobile Tanzania to celebrate the intersection of music and technology.
Acting career
editIn addition to his music, Kontawa has ventured into acting, appearing in the music-based film Dhahabu.[15]
Public image
editKontawa is seen as an artist who represents the streets, as noted by an article in Mwananchi newspaper in January 2024. He is recognized for his relatable lyrics and connection to his roots in Dar es Salaam. Despite his rising fame, he remains grounded in the experiences and struggles of everyday Tanzanians.[16]
In September 2023, Kontawa handed military uniforms that he had used during his performances to the Tanzanian Defense Force, showcasing his respect for the country's armed forces.[17]
Influence and legacy
editAs a brand influencer and a prominent figure in Tanzania's music scene, Kontawa continues to shape the cultural landscape. He is often hailed as a new champion of Bongo Flava, with publications such as The Citizen referring to him as a significant rising star. His contributions to music, acting, and fashion, combined with his humble demeanor, have made him a beloved figure in Tanzanian entertainment.[18]
References
edit- ^ "Kontawa". Music In Africa. 2023-10-11. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Hivi hapa vipengele, wanaowania Tuzo za TMA". Mwananchi. 2024-09-04. Retrieved 2024-10-22.
- ^ "Kontawa: Bongo Flava's new champion in the making". The Citizen. 2022-12-02. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Sura ya baba by Kontawa". Afrocharts. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ Mira-Mara (2024-10-16). "Kontawa – Champion Ft. Nay Wa Mitego (Mp3 Download)". TrendyHipHop. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ Gift (2024-10-16). "Kontawa – Champion (Remix) ft. Harmonize". JustNaija. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ PopKing (2022-11-15). "Kontawa – Champion (Remix) ft. Harmonize (Mp3 Download)". Xclusivepop. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Kontawa – Dunga Mawe – Audio". Father Music. 2023-05-02. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Read Dunga Mawe Lyrics By Kontawa". Notjustok East Africa. 2023-03-26. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Read 'Mwalimu' Lyrics By Kontawa". Notjustok East Africa. 2023-08-10. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Kontawa akiri kukutana na maneno kwamba amefanana na GodZilla (Video)". bongo5.com. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Kontawa aachia 'Sikuachi' akiwa na Maua Sama baada ya kufavya vizuri na Champion (Video)". bongo5.com. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "#TMAAwards2022: Kontawa msanii bora chipukizi". TanzaniaWeb (in Swahili). 2023-04-30. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ ""Narudia tena Kontawa azingatiwe" - Madee | East Africa Television". www.eatv.tv (in Swahili). 2022-11-12. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Bongo Flava artistes shine in new film". The Citizen. 2024-04-05. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Kontawa anatembea na nembo ya kitaa". Mwananchi. 2024-01-23. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Rapa Kontawa asalimisha sare za jeshi". TanzaniaWeb (in Swahili). 2023-09-01. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Kontawa: Bongo Flava's new champion in the making". The Citizen. 2022-12-02. Retrieved 2024-10-16.