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The Madness
Released Mar 10, 2023
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Quick Facts
Born
1982
1982
From
Tanzania, United Republic of
Tanzania, United Republic of
Journey
Ilunga Khalifa Juma, better known as CPwaa, was a Tanzanian musician and technology professional who shaped the music scene with his creation of Bongo Crunk, a unique fusion of Tanzanian rhythms and American crunk. He was born on 2 March 1982 to Sophia Ally and Khalifa Juma, growing up as an only child. His nickname “CP,” meaning Critical Person, eventually became CPwaa in 2006, thanks to advice from fellow artist Mr. Blue.
CPwaa excelled in school, attending Mbeya Secondary School and later Benjamin William Mkapa High School in Dar es Salaam. He graduated from the Institute of Finance Management (IFM) in 2006.
He first gained attention as part of the duo Park Lane with Suma Lee, releasing “Nafasi Nyingine,” which included the hit “Aisha.” After pursuing a solo career under Bongo Records, he released tracks like “6 in the Morning”, Pwaa Pt. 1, and Pwaa Pt. 2, earning recognition as the King of Bongo Crunk. His 2011 album, “Pwaa The Album,” featured 15 tracks, including collaborations with Ms. Triniti and HHP.
In 2011, CPwaa earned three Kilimanjaro Tanzania Music Awards (KTMA) for “Action” -Best Music Video, Best Ragga/Dancehall Song, and Best Popular Video - and was later appointed a KTMA Ambassador. He also received Channel O Music Video Award nominations in 2011 (Most Gifted East African Video) and 2012 (Most Gifted Dance Video).
Outside music, he was known as “The Fabulous Engineer”, working in digital content, VAS, mobile platforms, and digital marketing. CPwaa passed away on 17 January 2021 at Muhimbili National Hospital after battling pneumonia and was buried at Mwinyimkuu Cemetery in Magomeni. At the time, he was working on a new EP, Ocean and Sky, leaving behind a legacy in both music and technology.