Tanzanian Bongo Flava artist Harmonize has reignited his longstanding rivalry with fellow musician Diamond Platnumz, delivering a pointed critique coupled with a shift in his political ambitions.
In a recent outburst on social media, the Konde Gang CEO alleged that no artist from East Africa has ever successfully hosted a solo concert in either the United States or the United Kingdom with an audience exceeding 1,000 fans.
“There is no artist from East Africa who has organized their own show in the USA or UK and filled it with 1,000 people — such an artist does not exist,” Harmonize stated.
The claim appears to be a veiled jab at Diamond Platnumz, who recently concluded a highly publicized international tour.
The tour included a performance at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall in London, where Diamond shared the stage with Nigerian stars Flavour and Tiwa Savage. The concerts reportedly drew significant crowds, with videos of enthusiastic audiences circulating online.
This latest remark adds to the ongoing feud between the two artists, which dates back to Harmonize’s controversial departure from Diamond’s WCB Wasafi label. The exit was reportedly costly, involving substantial termination fees.
Since then, the two have frequently traded barbs, with Harmonize presenting himself as an independent artist challenging the status quo.
However, his recent statements were not solely focused on rivalry. Harmonize also announced his withdrawal from a planned parliamentary bid.
“I’ve reviewed the ethical guidelines of the party and Parliament, and I don’t think Kondeboy can endure them. I doubt I would even be allowed to say something like ‘Bomboclaaty’,” he remarked, referencing the restrictions on freedom of expression in politics.
He encouraged voters in Tandahimba to choose a deserving representative while declaring a renewed focus on his musical career.
“My current hunger is for a Grammy and greater success in music, inshallah — maybe,” he said.