X Plastaz

X Plastaz are a hip-hop group from Arusha in Tanzania who merge Maasai chants, Swahili rhymes, reggae and other influences. They have toured and released music worldwide to much acclaim. In the vibrant Tanzanian hip-hop scene, their conscious Swahili rap lyrics strike a chord with the Tanzanian youth, who can relate to their topics like Aids, unemployment, divorce and even life in prison.

The six vocalists are known internationally for their energetic live performances which have brought them to festivals and concert halls in Belgium, Holland, England and Sweden. Following the tragic death of founder member Faza Nelly in 2006, X Plastaz now consists of brothers Ruff, G-sann and Ziggy, who used to work in a hair salon and started rapping in 1995.

Their first single ‘Bamiza’ became a big hit in East Africa in 1999. In 2001, their younger brother and sister were added to the group, as well as Yamat Ole Meipuko, a Maasai singer from a remote village. Their 2004 release 'Msimu kwa Msimu' was released internationally on the compilation 'Rough Guide to African Rap', and its video was seen throughout Africa.