Tanzanian star Brian Simba, known for his alternative and experimental Hip Hop sound is gearing towards the release of his debut album ‘UNCLE’, expected to drop in August 2021, as a follow-up to his 2020 EP ‘UNCLE GUNI’. Through the release of “Temptation” and “Shake It”- his latest hit singles; Brian is giving his fans a feel of the upcoming project, specifically flaunting his unique sound, style and overall demeanour.
His latest track “Temptation” featuring label mate, Only1Pabo is the second track on his upcoming album. The feel-good song has laid-back visuals directed by Ngota. The steamy music video captures the aura of the song as the duo serenade beautiful ladies, making it hard for the women to resist them.
“Shake It” – The third release of the upcoming album has a classic retro feel, showcasing Africa’s vibrant culture. Here also Brian features Only1Pabo, who adds his silky smooth vocals, delivering on an addictive melody. Brian says, “This track is for my Swahili Nation. It’s really about celebrating our individuality and the beauty of the African woman in all forms. From the video, you will notice that it’s really about having a good time and wanting to dance along.” The music video is also directed by Ngota, bringing out scenes shot in a dressing room and an outdoor slum setting. The retro fresh outfits bring forth unique aesthetics, capturing attention.
Both singles are a testament to Brian’s ability to mix genres by fusing Afrobeats with laid back jazzy Hip Hop to create an impressive sound. Brian’s next single “Zaza” will be featuring two of his favorite artists – Kenya’s Scar Mkadinali of Wakadinali and Tanzanian legendary rapper Mr. Blue. The single will drop this June with its remix scheduled for July.
With the vibe of his new releases, Simba is setting the bar high and leaving fans with excitement ahead of the release of ‘UNCLE’ – the album. Brian reveals that in addition to rapping, he will also be singing in the new album. He says, “A lot of people don’t know this but I started singing before rapping. My father was and still is a choirmaster at our church. I have been singing in the choir since I was a child and at a very young age.”
Brian is currently signed to Africa Network Entertainment (ANE), following his 2017 signing to Mdee Music, where he released singles such as “Stimu” and “Silence” featuring Vanessa Mdee and Michael Love. He says, “I am very happy with the new label, it was a long process until we reached here in terms of a record deal, it took us over a year and half of negotiation or getting to know each other. Creatively they allow me to do my thing and that is one thing I am always protective of.” Looking back at what his former label Brian says, “I will forever be grateful for what Vanessa Mdee has done for me by giving me my first opportunity and holding my hand and introducing me to the world. She was first to believe in me commercially and that will always remain to be part of my history. I am grateful for her and wish her all the best! Hopefully one day we will do something again.”
Brian’s upcoming album has clear storylines for each song. This won’t only resonate with fans but also expose Brian’s evolution in music and mature sound. He concludes, “I am really in a very creative space at the moment and have gained the maturity to have the confidence to do a lot more different things. This album will definitely be more creative, displaying all that and more!”
Brian Simba is an East African artist based in Dar es salaam, Tanzania. His alternative and experimental sound gained him popularity after the release of his debut mixtape ‘MASAKI THEORY’ in 2016. In 2020, he independently released his ‘UNCLE GUNI’ EP. Brian has performed live in Tanzania’s cities: Dar Es Salaam, Arusha, Dodoma, Mtwara, Mwanza, Zanzibar and Morogoro. He has also performed in Nairobi. His music continues to enjoy favorable airplay on mainstream media in East Africa, Nigeria and Zambia.
