‘Nyongi’ Is Here: Matata and Marioo Deliver a Cross-Border Hit

Kenyan pop collective Matata has just dropped a vibrant new single, “Nyongi”, in collaboration with Tanzanian sensation Marioo.

The track is the first taste of their highly anticipated EP, ‘ERA (East Rise Again)’, set to release in June 2026, and it’s already generating buzz across East Africa and beyond.

Produced by renowned Kenyan producer Wodomolo, “Nyongi” fuses Matata’s signature Kenyan pop sound with Marioo’s smooth Bongo Flava vibes.

The result is a melodic anthem anchored by intricate percussion and the infectious rhythm of East African beats, a perfect example of cross-border musical synergy.

Matata opened up about the collaboration, saying:

“Something special happened when we teamed up with Marioo. We stepped into the studio in Nairobi and came out with a song that feels bigger than the room it was made in. It’s Sheng meeting Bongo Flava, Nairobi meeting Dar es Salaam — different places, but the same energy. For us, this isn’t just a collaboration; it’s a moment.”

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“Nyongi” also marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Matata. Their upcoming six-track EP, ‘ERA (East Rise Again)’, will feature an array of East African artists, highlighting the group’s vision of a united regional sound while maintaining a strong cultural identity.

Fans can look forward to the next single, “Kanairo”, dropping in May 2026, leading up to the full EP launch later in the year.

Born from a spontaneous studio session in Nairobi, “Nyongi” captures the magic that happens when two of East Africa’s most exciting musical forces meet.

What started as a casual creative exchange quickly turned into a seamless collaboration, with Matata and Marioo discovering an effortless musical chemistry that translates perfectly into a cross-border hit.

Marioo added:

“Working on ‘Nyongi’ with Matata was an incredible experience. Their energy and unique sound brought something special to the record. This song celebrates rhythm, movement and the powerful East African connection in music and I’m excited for fans to experience it and see the energy Matata will bring when performing it live.”

The release of “Nyongi” reflects a growing wave of creative exchange across East Africa, as artists continue to break down borders and craft a shared regional sound.

Over the past year, Matata has achieved remarkable milestones, amassing over 45 million streams and engaging more than one million listeners across 182 countries.

Their energetic performances and cultural authenticity have cemented them as one of East Africa’s most exciting musical acts on the global stage.