Tanzanian hip hop legend Ambwene Yessayah, popularly known as AY, is in mourning following the passing of his beloved grandfather.

The award-winning rapper took to Instagram to share the sad news with his fans and followers, paying tribute to the man he described as his “kipenzi” (dearest).

“Pumzika kwa Amani Babu Yangu Kipenzi.. Mwenyezi Mungu amekujalia miaka 103 ya kuishi.. Ni baraka kubwa kwako na kwetu pia.. I Mourn you till I join you,” AY wrote in a heartfelt post.

The tribute revealed that his grandfather lived an extraordinary life, reaching the remarkable age of 103 years, a milestone AY described as a blessing not only to his late grandparent but to the entire family.

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Rapper AY and his late grandpa

Fans, fellow artists, and industry colleagues flooded AY’s comment section with messages of condolence and prayers, celebrating the long life of his grandfather while offering strength to the rapper during this difficult time.

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AY, one of Tanzania’s pioneering Bongo Flava and hip hop stars, has over the years used his platform to celebrate family and heritage. His emotional message reflects the deep bond he shared with his grandfather, who lived through more than a century of history, experiences, and blessings.

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As the music fraternity and fans rally around him, AY’s words serve as a reminder of the importance of family, legacy, and cherishing moments with loved ones.

AY is widely celebrated as one of the pioneers of Bongo Flava and Swahili hip hop in East Africa. 

AY began his music career in the late 1990s as a member of the group Sanaa Flava, before going solo in the early 2000s. His unique style of fusing rap with melodic Bongo Flava sounds helped define modern Tanzanian urban music and opened doors for collaborations across Africa.

AY rose to prominence in 2000 with singles like Raha Tu and Machoni Kwa Ninga, which introduced him as a fresh voice in East African hip hop.

AY has won multiple awards, including the Tanzania Music Awards and international recognition at the Channel O Music Video Awards.

Beyond music, AY is also a businessman, investing in fashion and hospitality ventures in Tanzania and abroad.