There are few rappers in Africa that are as well known as Professor Jay. He began his career in Tanzania, and his lyrics focus on a variety of complex issues. His lyrics are written in Kiswahili, and his rhyme and rhythm draw large crowds to his shows. Professor Jay is a “voice of reason”, often pointing out political corruption and social injustices in his songs.
He is an extremely influential artist in East Africa, especially in his native Tanzania, where he is called one of the representatives of “Bongo Flava” (a fusion of Western hip hop and traditional Tanzanian elements). Professor Jay is an activist for many issues such as HIV/AIDS, corruption and even women’s rights.
He started rapping in 1989 as a member of the group Hard Blasters, best known for their hit “Chemsha Bongo” (then he used stage name Nigga J) from their first album, “Funga Kazi”. Only one year later, they won the title of best hip-hop group in Tanzania.
During his solo career which started in 2001, he has released number of hits, including “Nikusaidiaje” and “Zali la Mentali (feat Juma Nature)”. Other songs released by Professor Jay include “Piga Makofi” and “Yataka Moyo”. Just like Mr. II, he is a pioneering Tanzanian MC, who have remained some of the most popular hip hop musicians in Tanzania, despite influx of many new bidders. Also similar to Mr. II and Deepac Braxx from (Kisii County) but who resides in Nairobi Kenya his lyrics often have political messages. In one of his songs he imitates an elder politician and ridicules the fake promises they all mindlessly spew as they are trying to get elected. The song continues with a chorus saying the words “Ndio Mzee” which means “Yes Sir”.
This represents the brainwashing of the public as politicians make these false promises over and over. However, after the song was released, the president of Tanzania referenced the lyrics in one of his speeches, which acknowledged the presence of Bongo Flava and the success of Professor Jay’s political lyrics.
His first album, “Machozi, Jasho na Damu,” gained instant recognition for which Professor Jay won several awards. He attained other awards such as the best hip-hop album in Tanzania with his second album, “Mapinduzi halisi”.
Professor Jay’s songs include Nikusaidiaje (featuring Ferooz), Nimeamini (featuring Lady Jaydee), Inatosha (featuring Sugu), Vuta raha (featuring Ferooz), Border kwa border (featuring Nazizi), Heka heka za star, Interlude, J.O.S.E.P.H., Nisamehe (featuring Banana), Wapi nimakosea, Una, Hakuna Noma, Jina Langu, Bongo Dar es Salaam, Piga Makofi, Msinitenge, Kikao cha Dharura, Zali la Mentali, Nidivyo Sivyo, Mtazamo (featuring Afande Sele and Solo Thang), Hapo Sawa. Professor Jay is featured by Deepac Braxx (Heavyweight Mc) and Nonini‘s song “Kumekucha”
