Frida Amani (born in Arusha, Tanzania) is a Tanzanian rapper, radio and TV presenter, and advocate for women's rights.[1][2][3]
Breakthrough
editFrida first gained national recognition in 2015 when she participated in the Bongo Star Search competition, finishing in third place. During the competition, her performance of Joh Makini and G Nako's song Nusu Nusu showcased her rap style.[4]
Following her success on Bongo Star Search, Frida took a two-year break from music to pursue a career in broadcasting. She worked as a presenter for East African Radio on the show Planet Bongo and later moved to Clouds Media to present Bongo Flava content.[5]
Music career
editIn June 2018, Frida made her comeback with the single Jibebe, a song that reintroduced her in the Tanzanian music scene.[6] Her rap style is known for its simplicity yet depth, as she often writes about her life experiences. She is particularly passionate about advocating for women's rights and inspiring other female rappers.[7]
Her biggest hit to date is Madam President. Frida has recorded several collaboration songs with different artists, including Gnako, Young Lunya and many other Tanzanian artists.[8][9]
Influence and advocacy
editFrida Amani is also recognized for her advocacy for women in hip-hop. She has revolutionized the rap industry in Tanzania, helping to pave the way for more female artists in a male-dominated space. Despite the financial challenges associated with the music industry, Frida remains passionate about rap, viewing it as more than just a source of income.[10]
Her commitment to empowering women through her music and career makes her a significant figure in Tanzanian and East African music.[11][12]
In May 2024, Frida Amani participated in a panel discussing how art and culture can bring about societal change, alongside Nigerian internet comedian Maryam Apaokagi, known as Taaooma, and Malak Mattar from Palestine.[13]
Personal life
editFrida grew up admiring rappers such as Lil Wayne, Lauryn Hill, and Albert Mangwea, with Mangwea being one of her most significant influences. She decided to pursue music full-time after high school, despite her family's desire for her to study finance. With her family's support, she was able to follow her dream and make a name for herself in the music industry.[14]
Frida continues to inspire young female rappers in Tanzania and across East Africa, using her platform to uplift women in the entertainment industry.[15]
References
edit- ^ "Frida Amani: 'Madam President' of Bongo rap". The East African. 2022-04-01. Retrieved 2024-09-11.
- ^ Godson, Asiama (2023-09-12). "Frida Amani Biography, Videos, Booking". ProfileAbility. Retrieved 2024-09-11.
- ^ "Frida Amani: Kutoka BSS hadi mtangazaji wa East Africa Radio (Video) – Bongo5.com". bongo5.com. Retrieved 2024-09-11.
- ^ "Frida Amani: Kutoka BSS hadi mtangazaji wa East Africa Radio (Video) – Bongo5.com". bongo5.com. Retrieved 2024-09-11.
- ^ "Usajili Mpya..Mtangazaji Frida Amani Aikacha East Africa Radio na Kuhamia Clouds FM". UDAKU SPECIAL. 2024-09-12. Retrieved 2024-09-15.
- ^ Blog, Michuzi. "INTRODUCING "JIBEBE" BY FRIDA AMANI FT. G. BOY". MICHUZI BLOG. Retrieved 2024-09-11.
- ^ "Kauli ya 'usifanye hiki usifanye kile' inadidimiza ndoto za wasichana – Frida Amani | | Habari za UN". news.un.org (in Swahili). 2024-03-13. Retrieved 2024-09-12.
- ^ "Frida Amani". Music In Africa. 2024-04-29. Retrieved 2024-09-15.
- ^ Editor, The (2024-02-16). ""This Is Me (Live)" Review: Frida Amani Presents a Resounding Bongo Rap EP - Afrocritik". Retrieved 2024-09-15.
{{cite web}}:|last=has generic name (help) - ^ "BEN POL, FRIDA AMANI WAPEWA TUZO YA MAZINGIRA - BIN ZUBEIRY SPORTS - ONLINE". www.binzubeiry.co.tz. Retrieved 2024-09-15.
- ^ "Breaking boundaries: Frida Amani makes history at the global youth forum with hip-hop". The Citizen. 2024-05-22. Retrieved 2024-09-11.
- ^ "Kauli ya 'usifanye hiki usifanye kile' inadidimiza ndoto za wasichana – Frida Amani | | Habari za UN". news.un.org (in Swahili). 2024-03-13. Retrieved 2024-09-11.
- ^ Magulumali, Hassan (2024-05-19). "Frida Amani Represents Tanzania at TRT World Forum in Turkey". Media Wire Express. Retrieved 2024-09-12.
- ^ "MUSIC PR | FRIDA AMANI | MusicPR.jp". musicpr.jp (in Japanese). Retrieved 2024-09-15.
- ^ "Exclusive: Frida Amani mapenzi ya mpiga kitu kizito afunguka maisha yake - Millard Ayo". 2022-03-03. Retrieved 2024-09-11.