Shilole - Biography, Career, Marriage and Songs

Zena Yusuf Mohammed is widely known by her stage name Shilole. She has made a significant mark in the Tanzanian music industry as a musician and actress, specializing in R&B, Zouk, and the popular Bongo Flava genre. Shilole is highly regarded as one of Tanzania's top female artists, having garnered three nominations at KTMA, Tanzania's prestigious music awards. Her collaborations include works with notable artists such as Mr Camera from South Africa and Selebobo from Nigeria.

Shilole's influence extends beyond her music career; she is celebrated as one of the most beloved female artists in Tanzania, notable for being the first to amass 1 million followers on Instagram, the country's leading social network. Her contributions to the promotion of Bongo Flava have been instrumental in paving the way for emerging female artists in Tanzania's music scene.

Early Life

Shilole was born in Igunga, Tabora, Tanzania, on 20 December 1987. She was raised by a single mother who unfortunately passed away at an early age. Despite facing these hardships, Shilole persevered and emerged as one of the most influential artists of her generation in Tanzania. Her journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a leading female artist is seen as an inspiring story across Tanzania.

As a young child, Shilole dreamt of becoming a pilot. However, her aspirations were interrupted when she became pregnant at the age of 14. The early pregnancy posed significant risks, and she faced life-threatening complications during childbirth due to her young age, which posed biological challenges.

Career

Shilole began her official music career in 2008 but achieved widespread fame in 2013 with hit singles like "Lawama" and "Dume Dada." Since then, she has consistently released chart-topping songs that have solidified her reputation in the competitive Tanzanian music industry. Known for her versatility, Shilole crosses genres including Bongo Flava, R&B, and Zouk, contributing to the evolution of Tanzanian music.

As both a talented musician and actress, Shilole has left a significant impact, particularly in R&B and Bongo Flava genres. Her notable singles such as "Namchuka," "Malele," and "Say My Name" have further established her as a prominent figure in Tanzania's music scene. Throughout her career, she has continued to deliver hits, maintaining her relevance and popularity.

Beyond music, Shilole uses her influence to make positive contributions through community engagement. She serves as an ambassador and influencer for the Kipepeo campaign, advocating for adolescent girls and young women by addressing issues such as early pregnancy and gender-based violence. Shilole openly shares her personal experiences, aiming to inspire and empower her audience.

In addition to her music and advocacy work, Shilole is also an astute entrepreneur. She owns a catering business named Shishi Food Delivery and a popular restaurant called Shishi Food in Dar es Salaam. Her ventures in business reflect her entrepreneurial spirit and successful diversification outside of the entertainment industry.

Personal life

Shilole first married Ashraf Sadik, known as Uchebe, in 2018 in a private ceremony attended by close friends and family. However, in 2020, Shilole shocked many when she publicly disclosed that she was experiencing physical abuse in her marriage with Uchebe. She expressed genuine fear for her safety and well-being during this time.

The situation gained attention when Shilole posted images of a swollen face on July 8, 2020, as evidence of the physical abuse she endured. While Uchebe did not outright deny the allegations, he countered by stating that the photos shared by Shilole were taken before they got married.

Subsequently, Shilole moved on from her marriage to Uchebe and found love again with Rajab Issa, also known as Rommy. They tied the knot in a lavish ceremony held in their hometown, marking a new chapter in Shilole's personal life.

Throughout these challenges and changes, Shilole has openly shared her experiences, raising awareness about domestic violence and advocating for the safety and rights of women in relationships. Her courage in addressing these issues publicly has made an impact beyond her career in music, demonstrating her resilience and determination to overcome adversity.

Brand associations

• In 2015, Shilole was appointed by Tanzania's ruling party, CCM, as one of the key influential artists to mobilize voters for the Presidential candidate Dr. John Pombe Magufuli, who emerged victorious in the election.
• In 2016, she signed up with Dume Condoms Tanzania to serve as their ambassador, promoting awareness about safe practices.
• In 2018, Shilole expanded her ambassadorial roles by signing with Tanzania Telecommunications Limited (TTCL), a government-owned telecommunications company, further enhancing her influence across different sectors.

Discography

Singles

Lawama (2013)

Dume Dada (2013)

Paka la Bar (2013)

Nakomaa na Jiji (2014)

Chuna Buzi (2014)

Namchuka (2015)

Malele (2015)

Nyang’anyang’a (2016)

Say My Name (2016)

Hatutoi Kiki (2016)

Kigori (2017)

Mchaka Mchaka (2018)