A recent YouTube report for the period between September 16, 2023, and September 16, 2024, has revealed that many Kenyans prefer music from Tanzania over their local artistes.
Leading the pack is Tanzanian Bongo star Diamond Platnumz, who emerged as the most-watched artist on YouTube in Kenya with more than 123 million views.
Former Wasafi artiste Rayvanny followed in second place, amassing over 81 million views. Harmonize, the founder of Konde Music Worldwide, ranked third with over 78 million views, while Zuchu claimed the fourth spot with more than 78 million views as well.
Surprisingly, the only non-Tanzanian artist in the top five was Rwandan gospel singer Israel Mbonyi, who earned fifth place with over 74 million views.
His song Nina Siri became the most-viewed song on YouTube in Kenya, attracting 37 million views in the past year.
Kenyan gospel artiste Peter Omwaka, better known as Guardian Angel, was the first Kenyan to appear on the list, ranking sixth with over 61 million views.
Mbosso and Jay Melody took seventh and eighth places, respectively, while the Kenyan group Msanii Music Group landed ninth with over 48 million views.
Tanzanian singer Alikiba closed the top 10 most-viewed artists in Kenya.
Kenyan R&B star Otile Brown came in at a distant 15th, accumulating over 41 million views.
Tanzanian music also dominated the top songs on YouTube in Kenya.
Following Mbonyi’s Nina Siri in first place, Enjoy by Jux and Diamond Platnumz secured second place, while Morning Worship by Papi Clever and Dorcas came in third.
Mbonyi’s song Nitaamini rounded out the top four most-viewed tracks.
These results highlight the significant influence of Tanzanian artists in Kenya’s music scene, with Bongo Flava clearly resonating with Kenyan audiences.
Related: ‘Komasava’ is the biggest hit song in my music career – Diamond Platnumz
