Baraka Andrew Odiero, professionally known by his stage name Barakah The Prince or Baraka Da Prince, is a Tanzanian musician, singer, and songwriter;[1] born on February 13, 1994, in Mwanza, Tanzania.[2] In 2015, he won the Best Upcoming Artist award at the Kilimanjaro Music Awards.[3]
Barakah The Prince | |
|---|---|
| Birth name | Baraka Andrew Odiero |
| Also known as | Barakah Da Prince |
| Born | February 13, 1994 Mwanza, Tanzania |
| Origin | Kisumu, Kenya |
| Genres | Bongo Flava |
| Occupation(s) | Singer, songwriter |
| Instrument | Vocal |
| Years active | 2007–present |
Music career
editBarakah's professional music journey began in 2007 when he officially ventured into Bongo Flava. However, his early musical exposure came from participating in his church choir, where he worked closely with his brother. His breakthrough came in 2013 when he was signed by Tetemesha Entertainment.[4] During this time, Barakah gained recognition with his hit song Jichunge.[5] He further cemented his position in the industry with songs like Siachani Nawe,[6] Nivumilie,[7] Siwezi, and Nisamehe.[8]
In 2014, Barakah shared the stage with international stars such as T.I., Davido, and Waje during the annual Serengeti Fiesta music festival,[9] elevating his presence in the East African music scene. He is also credited with writing the song Nasimamaf or Lady Jaydee.[10]
Transition between labels
editBarakah's journey through various management teams and labels has been marked by frequent changes. He was initially signed to Tetemesha Entertainment in 2013,[11] where he worked on some of his early hits. However, by 2015, he left the label due to unresolved issues.[12] He then signed with Royal Nsyepa, where he released the popular song Siwezi.[13] Despite the success, Barakah parted ways with Royal Nsyepa due to disagreements, joining Rockstar4000 in 2016.[14] His time at Rockstar4000 saw him tour several African countries and collaborate with top musicians. However, in 2017, Barakah left the label to form his own, Bana Music[15][16][17]
Personal life
editThough Barakah has kept much of his personal life private, he previously dated Najma Dattan,[18] popularly known as Naj. Their relationship was widely publicized due to their partnership in Bana Music.[19]
Legacy and influence
editBarakah The Prince remains one of the most influential figures in Tanzanian R&B and Bongo Flava music. His journey, though filled with challenges, showcases his resilience and dedication to his craft. His story also sheds light on the complexities of the music industry, especially in balancing creative freedom and business management.[20]
References
edit- ^ "Barakah The Prince ⚜ Online songs and bio of the artist". mdundo.com. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Barakah the Prince Biography, Music Career, Awards, Relationship, and Net Worth". mdundo.com. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "HAYA HAPA MAJINA YA WASHINDI WA TUZO ZA KTMA 2015,ALI KIBA AIBUKA NA TUZO 5 , DIAMOND 2". MALUNDE 1 BLOG. 2015-06-14. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Huyu ndiye msanii mpya anaefuata kutoka Tetemesha 2014". Millard Ayo. 2014-02-24. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Sikiliza hapa wimbo wa Barakah da Prince – jichunge". Millard Ayo. 2014-03-19. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "New Video: Barakah Da Prince – Siachani Nawe". bongo5.com. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "New Music: Barakah Da Prince & Ruby – Nivumilie". bongo5.com. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Video: Behind the scene Nisamehe ya Baraka da Prince na Alikiba studioni". Millard Ayo. 2016-10-05. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Picha: T.I, Davido, Waje na wengine waacha historia Serengeti Fiesta Dar 2014". bongo5.com. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ Godless, Makouchi (2023-03-24). "Lady Jaydee - Nasimama | Mp3 Download". HighlifeNg. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ Blog, Michuzi. "introducing Baraka Da Prince na ngoma yake mpya 'JICHUNGE'". MICHUZI BLOG. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Barakah The Prince: Alikopita Ameacha Shida!". Global Publishers. 2017-07-24. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Barakah Da Prince katusogezea video mpya "Siwezi"". Millard Ayo. 2016-01-16. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "TANZANIA: Kidbway aongelea uhamaji wa Baraka kwenda RockStar 4000". mdundo.com. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ ""Nimeondoka Rockstar sio sababu Alikiba ni Boss" – Baraka the Prince". Millard Ayo. 2017-07-21. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Baraka Da Prince Ajitoa Rockstar 4000 ya Alikiba, Ataja Sababu". Global Publishers. 2017-07-21. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ Diana (2017-11-09). "Barakah The Prince Kuwashtaki Rockstar 4000". Ghafla! Tanzania. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Baraka the prince na Naj wameachana? | Muungwana BLOG". www.muungwana.co.tz. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Baraka Da Prince Atangaza Ujio Mpya wa Bana Muziki". UDAKU SPECIAL. 2024-10-09. Retrieved 2024-10-16.
- ^ "Barakah The Prince". Nation. 2020-07-05. Retrieved 2024-10-16.