Ali Kiba facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ali Kiba
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Kiba at the 2016 MTV EMA Awards as the Best African Act
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| Born | 29 November 1986 Kigoma Region, Tanzania
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| Other names | King Kiba |
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| Years active | 2004–present |
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| Also known as | King Kiba |
| Origin | Tanzania |
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Ali Saleh Kiba (born November 29, 1986), known as Alikiba or King Kiba, is a famous musician and songwriter from Tanzania. Many people consider him one of the most talented musicians in East Africa. He is often called the King of Bongo Flava music.
Alikiba comes from Kigoma and owns two companies: Kings Music label and Crown Media Group. He has many popular songs like Mwana, Aje, Chekecha Cheketua, and Cinderella. He is known as one of the most successful Bongo Flava stars, often compared to Diamond Platnumz.
Contents
Ali Kiba's Music Journey
Early Career and Big Hits
Alikiba started his music career after his 12th grade exams in 2004. His first song, "Maria," showed off his amazing talent. In 2005, he chose music over a chance to play soccer for a Ugandan team.
His first album, Cinderella, and its hit song became the best-selling record in East Africa in 2008. His second album, Ali K 4 Real, came out in 2009. It featured popular songs like Nakshi Mrembo and Usiniseme.
Collaborations and Awards
In 2008, Alikiba worked with famous American singer R. Kelly and other African musicians on a project called One 8. Since then, he has collaborated with many other big music stars. These include Patoranking, Sauti Sol, Nyashinski, and Sarkodie.
Alikiba has won many awards throughout his career. He was nominated for 'Best International Act' in 2009 and 'Best East African Artist' in 2009. He also won 'Best Zouk / Rhumba Song' at the Kili Music Awards in 2012.
Taking a Break and Coming Back Strong
Around 2011, Alikiba took a three-year break from music. He returned in 2014 with a song called "Mwana." Fans loved the song, and it helped him win five awards at the 2015 Tanzania Music Awards.
After his comeback, Alikiba signed with Rockstar 4000, a music label. With them, he released many hit songs. These included Chekecha Cheketua, Lupela, and Aje. The song "Aje" was even ranked number 3 on a list of the Best 100 Tanzanian songs from 2012 to 2022.
Signing with Sony Music and Starting His Own Label
In May 2016, Alikiba made history by signing with Sony Music. He was the first East African artist to join this big recording company. He stayed with Sony and Rockstar 4000 for five years.
In 2021, he left both labels to start his own record company, Kings Music. This label now supports other talented Tanzanian artists. Some of these artists are Tommy Flavour, Vanillah, K2ga, and Abdu Kiba.
Only One King Album Success
In November 2021, Alikiba released his third studio album, Only One King. This album has 16 songs, including "Utu" and "Salute" featuring Rudeboy. He called it a "Pan African album" because it featured artists from different African countries.
Only One King won the Best Album award at the 2022 Tanzania Music Awards. It was a huge night for Alikiba, as he won five awards in total! He also won Best Male Artist, Best Music Video for "Salute," Best Melodic Songwriter, and Best East African Artist. This made him the most awarded Tanzanian artist at the 2022 awards.
Crown FM Radio Station
On March 10, 2024, Alikiba launched his new radio station, Crown FM 92.1. It broadcasts in major cities like Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Tanga, and Pwani.
His Early Life
Alikiba was born in Iringa, Tanzania. His parents are Saleh Omari and Tombwe Njere. He is the oldest of four children. His brother, Abdu Kiba, is also a musician. He also has a sister, Zabibu Kiba, and a younger brother, Abuu Kiba.
Even though he was born in Iringa, Alikiba's family comes from Kigoma. This rich cultural background has influenced his music style. He started developing his musical talents while attending Upanga Primary School in Dar es Salaam.
Personal Life
Alikiba married Amina Khaleef in 2018. Their wedding took place in Mombasa, Kenya.
Awards and nominations
- Edward awards 2011 in Uganda
