Tanzanian music star Marioo has poured cold water on swirling rumours that his recent chart-topping hits were a calculated move to outshine fellow Bongo Flava heavyweight, Diamond Platnumz.
The “Hakuna Matata” hitmaker, whose latest releases have sent shockwaves through East African airwaves, found himself at the centre of an alleged musical tug-of-war.
Fans and gossip blogs were abuzz with claims that Marioo had deliberately timed his drops to eclipse Diamond’s momentum — a claim he now dismisses as “baseless noise.”
During a recent media interview, a popular Tanzanian YouTuber confronted the singer with whispers that he was out for revenge — allegedly retaliating against Diamond for previously promoting his own songs at the expense of Marioo’s.
“There are some people who have been saying that Marioo released this song as revenge for what Diamond did to him, claiming that Diamond promoted his own video to bring down Marioo’s song,” the interviewer pointed out.
But an unbothered Marioo hit back, brushing off the rumours and insisting he’s got no time for petty rivalries or hidden agendas.
“There is no truth in that,” Marioo said, coolly. “If anything, the only time I could be accused of competing is when I crowned myself as the king of Bongo Flava — but even then, it was just for fun.”
The award-winning singer stressed that his creative process is guided by art, passion, and purpose — not drama or revenge.
“I’ve never even heard of such claims. I’m not in this industry to bring anyone down. I’m here to build, to inspire, and to collaborate,” he added.
Taking the high road, Marioo praised the spirit of camaraderie in Tanzania’s music scene, noting that mutual respect and support — not sabotage — define his musical journey.
“I’ve supported my fellow artistes, attended their launches, featured in their videos more than anyone else — and that love has come back to me in kind,” he said.
As far as Marioo is concerned, there’s room at the top for everyone. And with hit after hit under his belt, it looks like he’s more focused on climbing the charts than fighting for crowns.
So, is Bongo Flava at war? According to Marioo, not even close. It’s just good vibes and great music — and the fans seem to agree.
