Cherry (Tanzanian singer)
Neema Swai known by her stage name Cherry is a Tanzanian singer, songwriter and actress.[1]
Cherry | |
---|---|
Birth name | Neema Swai |
Origin | Kilimanjaro, Tanzania |
Genres | Bongo Flava Afrobeats RnB |
Occupation(s) | Singer, songwriter, actress |
Years active | 2020–present |
Biography
Neema Swai was born in Kilimanjaro region found in the Northern part of Tanzania. As a child, At the age of 5, Cherry started to show interest in singing and as she grew up she joined her church's choir as a vocalist. Cherry, in 2009 relocated from Kilimanjaro to Dar es Salaam to pursue her academic studies.[2]
Before entering the music industry in 2020, Cherry pursued a diploma in Nursing and Midwifery at the prestigious Hubert Kairuki Memorial University.[3]
Cherry's music, featuring tracks like "Ole," "Closer," and "Nikikupata," has been characterized as Afro-RnB, a fusion of West Africa's RnB and RnB genres, creating a unique and captivating sound.[4]
Career
In 2020, Cherry kickstarted her music journey by participating in Tanzania's prominent talent search competition, Bongo Star Search, where she secured a spot in the top 10 finalists.[5][6]
Shortly after, Hermy B, a notable figure in the music industry, noticed her talent and signed her to his record label. Under his guidance, Cherry released her debut single Ole.[7]
Afterwards, Cherry launched her debut soundtrack EP for DSTV's film "Love Transfusion," [8] which consisted of four captivating songs, including the hit track "Closer" that catapulted her to stardom in Tanzania.[9]
In 2022, she was chosen as the ambassador for the cosmetics brand, Atsoko being the second female Tanzanian artist to get the deal after Vanessa Mdee.[10][11]
Discography
Extended Playlist (EP)
- Love Transfusion[12]
Songs
- Ole
- Closer
- Nikikupata
- Kiapo Cha Damu
- Go Baby
References
- "CHERRY". Music In Africa. 2023-03-23. Retrieved 2023-08-03.
- "Cherry: From a church choir singer to upcoming pop artist". The Citizen. 2023-03-17. Retrieved 2023-08-03.
- "Biography : Tanzania's Songbird, CHERRY Is Here To Stay". Latest East African & Bongo Flava Music, Songs & Video - Notjustok. 2023-04-25. Retrieved 2023-08-03.
- "CHERRY". Music In Africa. 2023-03-23. Retrieved 2023-08-03.
- "Cherry Ni Nani ? Kutana Na Nyota Mpya Wa Muziki Kutoka Tanzania. ⚜ Latest music news online". mdundo.com. Retrieved 2023-08-03.
- "Cherry: From a church choir singer to upcoming pop artist". The Citizen. 2023-03-17. Retrieved 2023-08-03.
- Julius, Stellah (2023-04-26). "Makala: Mambo 5 Usiyoyajua Kuhusu Msanii Cherry". Billy O’clock. Retrieved 2023-08-03.
- "Cherry on Apple Music". Apple Music. Retrieved 2023-08-03.
- "Cherry Needs You "Closer" In Her Brand New Video | Notjustok East Africa". Latest East African & Bongo Flava Music, Songs & Video - Notjustok. 2023-04-13. Retrieved 2023-08-03.
- Jacob, Mugwana (2023-06-16). "Atsoko Partners with Tanzanian Singer Cherry as Brand Ambassador". Now Then Digital. Retrieved 2023-08-03.
- TZA, Pascal Mwakyoma (2023-06-11). "Atsoko wampa Cherry ubalozi". Millard Ayo. Retrieved 2023-08-03.
- LOVE TRANSFUSION (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) - EP by Cherry, 2023-03-18, retrieved 2023-08-03