Rayvanny and Diamond Platnumz: A Tale of Brotherhood, Music, and Bongo Flava Evolution
Part 1: The Origins
Diamond Platnumz and Rayvanny are two of the most influential artists to ever come out of Tanzania. While their paths were different in the beginning, their destinies became deeply intertwined through music, mentorship, and a shared vision to elevate Bongo Flava on a global scale.
Diamond Platnumz – The Architect of Modern Bongo Flava
Born Naseeb Abdul Juma Issack on October 2, 1989, in Tandale, Dar es Salaam, Diamond Platnumz grew up in a humble background with a single mother who struggled to raise him. His interest in music started at a young age, influenced by local and international stars. He released his breakthrough single “Kamwambie” in 2010, which became an instant hit and opened the door for a string of hits, including “Number One,” “Mbagala,” and “Ntampata Wapi.”
He quickly built a name not only as an artist but as a smart entrepreneur. In 2015, he founded WCB Wasafi (Wasafi Classic Baby)—a label that would go on to shape East African music and introduce global audiences to Bongo Flava.
Rayvanny – The Chui from Mbeya
Raymond Shaban Mwakyusa, famously known as Rayvanny or Chui, was born on August 22, 1993, in Mbeya, a city in the southern highlands of Tanzania. From an early age, Rayvanny was drawn to music, performing in school competitions and local shows. After completing his studies, he moved to Dar es Salaam to chase his music dreams and joined Tip Top Connection, a music crew known for nurturing upcoming talent.
Though he had raw talent, Rayvanny still needed a bigger platform. That opportunity came in 2015 when he was noticed by Diamond Platnumz and signed to WCB Wasafi.
Part 2: The Golden Era of WCB – Mentor Meets Protégé
When Rayvanny joined WCB Wasafi in 2015, Diamond Platnumz took him under his wing as a younger brother in music. Their relationship wasn’t just a business contract—it became a bond of brotherhood, mentorship, and shared hustle. Rayvanny admired Diamond not only for his success but also for his business mindset and work ethic.
Their first major collaboration, "Salome" (2016), was a massive hit. The song cleverly sampled classic Tanzanian melodies and was delivered in a modern Bongo Flava style, showcasing their vocal chemistry and creative synergy. The music video became one of the most viewed Tanzanian videos at the time.
"Salome" wasn’t just a song—it was a cultural moment that defined a new generation of Bongo Flava fans. Rayvanny’s sweet voice and Diamond’s iconic delivery worked perfectly, and fans quickly saw Rayvanny as the rightful heir to Bongo Flava’s future.
Under Diamond's guidance, Rayvanny dropped other major hits like:
-
Kwetu – His debut single under WCB, and a huge anthem in East Africa
-
Zezeta, Makulusa, Sugu, Chuchumaa – Songs that solidified him as a hitmaker
-
Tetema featuring Diamond – One of the biggest African dance hits of the decade, taking over clubs, TikTok, and radios globally
“Tetema” was a game-changer. It wasn't just popular in Tanzania but also went viral in Nigeria, South Africa, and Latin America. The success of the song showed that Rayvanny had matured into an international artist, and Diamond had successfully guided yet another artist into stardom.
Part 3: The Global Stage
Between 2017 and 2021, both artists pushed the boundaries of Tanzanian music.
-
Rayvanny became the first Tanzanian artist to win a BET Award in 2017 (Best International Viewers’ Choice), a huge milestone for him and the country.
-
Diamond continued growing WCB, signing artists like Harmonize, Mbosso, Lava Lava, and Zuchu, and collaborating with global icons like Alicia Keys, Rick Ross, Omarion, and Ne-Yo.
-
Their joint tours, media appearances, and WCB showcases helped solidify Bongo Flava’s place in the African music industry.
Despite his rising status, Rayvanny remained loyal to Diamond for years, calling him “kiongozi” (leader) and expressing gratitude for his support in countless interviews. Diamond also frequently praised Rayvanny as one of the most talented artists in Africa.
Part 4: Independence and Evolution – Rayvanny Forms Next Level Music
In 2021, after over five successful years under WCB Wasafi, Rayvanny made the bold move to launch his own label, Next Level Music (NLM). The move came with mixed emotions. While fans were excited to see Rayvanny take control of his career, many were nervous about what this meant for his relationship with Diamond.
However, unlike other artists who left WCB with tension, Rayvanny and Diamond remained on good terms. In fact, Diamond was present at the launch of Next Level Music and supported Rayvanny’s decision, calling it a graduation and a proud moment.
Rayvanny continued to release hit after hit under NLM, including:
-
Teamo
-
I Miss You
-
Mama La Mama
-
Forever
-
Yaya (with Diamond Platnumz)
The song “Yaya,” released after Rayvanny left WCB, proved that the bond between them wasn’t broken. It showed maturity, respect, and a shared love for music over ego or business differences.
Part 5: Business, Legacy, and Wealth
Both Rayvanny and Diamond Platnumz have become symbols of success and wealth in East Africa.
Diamond Platnumz has diversified his income with:
-
Wasafi Media (Wasafi TV and Wasafi FM)
-
WCB Wasafi record label
-
Endorsements (Pepsi, Coral Paints, Itel, etc.)
-
Investments in real estate and fashion
-
Net worth estimated at $7 to $10 million
Rayvanny, while younger in the industry, has built his empire through:
-
Streaming platforms (YouTube, Boomplay, Audiomack)
-
Concerts across Africa and Europe
-
Brand deals and ads
-
His label NLM
-
Net worth estimated at $2 to $5 million
Rayvanny owns luxurious cars, houses, and often travels in style. He also mentors new artists through NLM, just like Diamond did for him.
Part 6: Cultural Influence and Brotherhood
The relationship between Rayvanny and Diamond Platnumz is a powerful story of mentor and student, brother and brother, and artist and entrepreneur. Their collaborations have defined an era of Bongo Flava, and their bond has inspired many young artists to believe in collaboration over competition.
Even after going independent, Rayvanny often praises Diamond’s role in his life, and Diamond continues to show support. They represent what is possible when talent meets opportunity, and how unity can build an entire industry.
They’ve both played a huge role in making Tanzanian music a respected genre across Africa, Europe, and even in the Americas.
Conclusion: Rayvanny and Diamond Platnumz – Icons of Bongo Flava
Rayvanny and Diamond are not just individual stars—they are institutions. Their journey together—from discovery to dominance—represents the power of mentorship, vision, and hard work. Through their music, they’ve told stories of love, struggle, celebration, and identity. Through their success, they’ve shown what young Africans can achieve with dedication and collaboration.
They’ve made Bongo Flava not just a Tanzanian sound, but a continental and global movement. Whether apart or together, their legacies are forever connected.