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Damian Innocent Mihayo (born September 21, 1987), professionally known as Damian Soul, is a Tanzanian singer, songwriter, composer, and guitarist.[1]

Early life and education

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Damian Soul was born and raised in Sinza, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, to Judge Innocent Mihayo. He has an older sister. He was introduced to various music his parents listened. His uncle's influence in hip-hop caused his interest in writing music.[2]

He attended Eagle's Nest High School in Kampala, Uganda, where he co-founded the gospel music group Christ Like. During school holidays, he served as a lead singer and musical director at the Winners Chapel choir. Damian later pursued a certificate in music from Music May Day in Dar es Salaam, further honing his musical skills.[3]

Career

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Damian entered the music scene in 2011 with his debut single "Hakuna Matata," followed by "Taratibu" in 2012.

From 2012 to 2014, Damian was the lead singer and guitarist for Wakwetu Jazz Vibes, a band known for its fusion of jazz, soul, R&B, and traditional Tanzanian music. The group performed at international festivals such as the Jahazi Jazz Festival, Zanzibar International Film Festival and Sauti Za Busara.[4]

After leaving Wakwetu Jazz Vibes in 2014, Damian resumed his solo career, releasing singles like "Ni Penzi" featuring Joh Makini. This track earned him a nomination for the best R&B song of the year at the Tanzania Music Awards.

In 2015, Damian participated in the Maisha Super Star competition, an East African talent search. Representing Tanzania, he emerged as one of the top finalists under the mentorship of rapper A.Y.[5][6]

In January 2019, Damian released the EP Asante in collaboration with Barnaba, another prominent Tanzanian musician. The EP showcased his versatility and solidified his position in the East African music scene.

Damian is known for his live performances. He has performed at various international music festivals such as Sauti za Busara,[7] Karibu Music Festival,[8] and Jambo Festival.

In June 2024, Damian Soul headlined Zanzibar's Full moon Party, held at Kendwa Rock Beach. It was his first performance of the annual event.

Damian Soul is scheduled to perform July 7, at the 53rd International African Art Festival in New York City.[needs update]

Impact and legacy

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Damian Soul's music is characterized by soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, addressing themes of love, resilience and social consciousness.[9]

Discography

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  • "Hakuna Matata" (2011)
  • "Taratibu" (2012)
  • "Ni Penzi" (featuring Joh Makini)[10]
  • "Baraka" (featuring Joh Makini)[11]
  • "Tudumishe" (featuring G Nako)[12]
  • Asante EP (2019, in collaboration with Barnaba)
  • Mapopo EP (2021), in collaboration with NHLONIPHO[13][14][15]

Awards and Nominations

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References

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  1. ^ "Damian Soul". Music In Africa. 2023-07-20. Retrieved 2024-05-17.
  2. ^ "ACCES 2023 interview: Tanzanian musician Damian Soul". Music In Africa. 2023-11-03. Retrieved 2024-05-17.
  3. ^ "Damian Soul on how music set him free". The Citizen. 2021-04-02. Retrieved 2024-05-17.
  4. ^ Room, World Music Central News (2022-10-19). "Sauti za Busara Festival Announces 2023 Lineup | World Music Central". Retrieved 2024-05-17.
  5. ^ "Damian Soul aingia studio kufanya collabo na Nameless wa Kenya – Bongo5.com". bongo5.com. Retrieved 2024-05-17.
  6. ^ "Former TPF contestant bounces back in new reality show". Nairobi News. 2015-03-11. Retrieved 2024-05-17.
  7. ^ "Tanzania's singer Damian Soul performs with his musicians during the..." Getty Images. 2019-02-10. Retrieved 2024-05-17.
  8. ^ "Tanzania to host the second edition of Karibu Music Festival". Music In Africa. 2015-10-21. Retrieved 2024-05-17.
  9. ^ Frank, Enky (2024-05-10). "Damian Soul: East Africa's Musical Maestro and Passionate Low-Key Icon". Retrieved 2024-05-18.
  10. ^ Blog, Michuzi. "NIPENZI VIDEO LAUNCHING - DAMIAN SOUL & JOH MAKINI TODAY @ ESCAPE ONE". MICHUZI BLOG. Retrieved 2024-05-17.
  11. ^ Ayo, Millard (2014-12-24). "Hii ni Good news kutoka kwa Damian Soul na Joh Makini Mwaka 2015 - Millard Ayo". Retrieved 2024-05-17.
  12. ^ Blog, Michuzi. "Introducing New single from Damian Soul ft G.Nako". MICHUZI BLOG. Retrieved 2024-05-17.
  13. ^ "DAMIAN SOUL AND NHLONIPHO RELEASE A COLLABORATION EP 'MAPOPO'". TRACE. 2021-08-04. Retrieved 2024-05-17.
  14. ^ "Nyimbo Mpya: Damian Soul Aachia EP Mpya 'Mapopo' ⚜ Latest music news online". mdundo.com. Retrieved 2024-05-17.
  15. ^ ""Hakuna kama Mapopo" - Damian Soul | East Africa Television". www.eatv.tv. 2021-08-08. Retrieved 2024-05-17.
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