Diamond Platnumz’s collaboration with Tanzanian gospel singer Joel Lwaga has sparked a fresh debate after another public figure questioned the Bongo Flava star’s decision to take part in the project.
The latest criticism came on Wednesday, September 30, from Tanzanian media personality and influencer Mwijaku, who described Diamond’s decision to read Bible verses publicly and work with Lwaga as a mistake.
The comments have added another layer to the discussion that started after Diamond and Lwaga released their gospel-inspired song Nikumbuke on September 23.
Tanzanian Rapper Diamond Platnumz performing in Kigali, Rwanda // Instagram
The collaboration
Gospel boundaries questioned
The collaboration has also reopened a long-running conversation within Tanzania's gospel music scene.
Veteran gospel singer Bahati Bukuku said she personally would not collaborate with secular artistes because of her spiritual convictions.
“Sidhani kama nuru na giza zinaenda sawa, siwezi fanya hivyo.”
Bukuku, however, stressed that she was expressing her own position and that other artistes were free to make their decisions.
Gospel singer Rose Muhando has similarly explained that she maintains her own boundaries around collaborations with secular musicians.
Diamond explains his position
Diamond has also addressed the reactions surrounding the song.
He said he had seen both the positive and negative responses, noting that many people had embraced the project while others had reservations.
The debate intensified after Diamond appeared at Lwaga’s birthday celebration on September 27, where he publicly read passages from the Bible.
He read from Luke 5:31-32 and also referred to the Book of Matthew while speaking about faith and reaching people who need guidance.
