Queen Asher and Rehema Tajiri: Tanzania’s Mother Daughter Duo Behind Singeli Genre Fame

[Queen Asher and Rehema/Ajuntament de Barcelona]

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Queen Asher and Rehema Tajiri, a mother-daughter team, have become the reigning queens of Singeli, a genre steeped in Taarab origins but now known for its high-energy, electrifying beats. They met with Pan African Music at the enchanting Magnifique Society in Reims, where they unveiled the feminine energy behind the male-dominated Singeli world and the irresistible allure of this Tanzanian sound.

Queen Asher, known as Asher Sahau Kambi in real life, is the DJ and musical maestro of the duo, and she doesn't hold back in sharing the unique origin of her stage name: "My nickname 'Queen Asher' came from my dad." She exudes a vibrant, magnetic aura, a stark contrast to her calm and collected demeanor offstage. Her mother, Rehema Tajiri, is the vocal powerhouse of the duo. She describes Queen Asher as her friend and DJ, a testament to the deep connection they share.

While they may exude an air of cuteness offstage, their on-stage persona is a different story altogether. As Queen Asher enthusiastically puts it, ""when they are on stage, it's like everything boom boom boom, it's like danger is coming."" The duo's stage presence is known to electrify audiences and make them groove to the infectious Singeli rhythms.

Singeli music, which has its roots in Taarab, is deeply embedded in Tanzanian culture, with the Zaramo tribe contributing the drums and other elements that have evolved into the sound we know today. Queen Asher explains the genesis of Singeli, saying, ""The Taarab is looped and mixed with Zaramo."" This fusion results in a high-energy, fast-tempo music that has taken Tanzanian and global music scenes by storm. She emphasizes that Singeli is now transcending national borders and finding appreciation worldwide.

The Singeli movement's tempo is intentionally fast, infusing listeners with an infectious energy. ""It's like cardio,"" Queen Asher remarks, likening the experience of listening to Singeli to a high-octane workout for the soul. Rehema Tajiri, the vocalist of the duo, fills the music with lyrics that predominantly revolve around dancing, happiness, and life in general. Her journey in music began with dancing, inspired by her previous career as a Congolese music dancer.

But what sets Rehema apart is her resilience and tenacity. Despite the prevailing perception that Singeli music is primarily for the youth, Rehema took it upon herself to embrace the genre, regardless of her age. She was undaunted by critics who labeled Singeli as ""hooligan music"" for young adults involved in negative behaviors. Her focus is on changing Singeli's image for those who underestimate and criticize it and, most importantly, on educating the youth on living better lives.

As Queen Asher and Rehema have discovered, Singeli is breaking the mold and expanding beyond its Tanzanian origins to captivate audiences worldwide. They recently performed at the Magnifique Society in Reims, where they encountered the charismatic Nigerian Afrorave singer Rema. The vibe at the festival was described as ""very nice and calm,"" a testament to the genre's versatility and appeal.

Queen Asher takes great pride in being Tanzania's first female Singeli DJ. Her presence in the genre offers a unique perspective, bringing feminine energy and confidence to the forefront. With Rehema by her side, they collectively provide an invaluable education for people of all ages. Their collaboration transcends the mother-daughter relationship; it's a symbiotic fusion of passion, music, and a shared mission.

In the world of Singeli, where male artists have often dominated, Queen Asher and Rehema Tajiri emerge as a powerful force of change. They celebrate the irresistible and vibrant allure of Singeli music while redefining the essence of motherhood. Their journey resonates with a generation seeking empowerment, breaking boundaries, and discovering the unity of family and art in a world of fast-paced rhythms and boundless energy.