Inside the soulful, genre-blending playlist of Tanzania’s modern statesman
I’ve been on the road a lot recently. Reading and music provided good company,”
– January Makamba, via X.
When Tanzanian politician and cultural thought-leader January Makamba recently shared screenshots of his playlist on X, he wasn’t just sharing music — he was opening a window into his world. From timeless heartbreak ballads to upbeat African anthems, his selections sparked interest not just for their depth, but for their range. It’s a playlist that travels the world while staying deeply grounded in East Africa. It’s eclectic — some might even call it chaotic — but it mirrors the moment. In a year charged with political tension, a disbanded parliament (as of June 26th), and the looming general elections, the playlist feels like the perfect soundtrack to a whirlwind season.
Makamba’s playlist reads like a passport stamped with rhythm. It jumps from Uncle Waffles’ amapiano bangers like “Waffle Anthem” and “Tanzania”, to smooth R&B gems like “Never Too Much” by Luther Vandross, and “Unpretty” by TLC. You’ll find Michael Jackson, The Beatles, Solange, and even The Weeknd thrown into the mix.
Yet amidst this global spread, it’s the African heartbeat — especially from East Africa — that anchors the list. With artists like Zuchu, Mbosso, Josline & Mr Blue, Rayvanny, Ben Pol, and Harmonize, there’s no mistaking Makamba’s pride in homegrown sound.
Though wide-ranging, the playlist isn’t random. Makamba admitted that it reflects specific moods — like heartbreak. Songs like “I Don’t” by Sabrina Claudio and “What Do I Do?” by The Corrs mirror the vulnerability that sometimes comes with long drives and deep reflection.
The East African Beat
Each track brings its own story, reflecting the region’s growing musical footprint and genre evolution — from traditional roots to experimental modern beats. Some highlights from the region include:
“Dhahabu” – Josline ft. Mr Blue: A Swahili love song sparkling with nostalgic flair.
“Utaniua” – Zuchu: A hauntingly honest ballad about love and obsession.
“Me Too” – Abigael Chams & Harmonize: Youthful, bold, and catchy.
“Sheri” – Rich Mavoko: Keeping Bongo Flava alive.
“Wanaweweseka” – Rayvanny: Swahili Seduction.
“Habari Gani” – Carola Kinasha: A celebration of Tanzanian musical roots and resistance.
“Papa” – Gigy Money: Fierce, provocative, and full of personality.
Interestingly, Makamba noted that his playlist carries sub-themes, and one stood out: heartbreak. He shared that songs by Sabrina Carpenter, Sabrina Claudio, Natalie Imbruglia, and The Corrs have played a key role during this reflective season. From “I Don’t” to “What Do I Do?”, the emotional honesty is front and center. It shows that even for a public figure with a demanding schedule, moments of vulnerability, healing, and introspection are woven into the journey — through melody. January Makamba’s playlist is more than a collection of songs — it’s a soundtrack of movement, memory, and meaning. It reveals a man who is worldly yet rooted, emotional yet composed, modern yet mindful of heritage. Whether cruising past Tanzanian landscapes or sitting still in thought, he curates music that mirrors life’s pace and pauses.
So, what’s it like to take a road trip with January Makamba? It’s poetic, political, soulful, and sonic. It’s discovering Doechii’s “Denial is a River” right after Muungano by Orchestra Makassy. It’s dancing to Uncle Waffles, then reflecting with Oliver Mtukudzi.
This playlist reminds us that leaders, too, are human. They dance, they hurt, they dream — and sometimes, they just want to vibe.