Diamond has recently broken his silence regarding accusations of copying songs from Nigerian artists, including Spyro, Burna Boy, and Wizkid, among others.
In response to a post by Juma Jux on their latest song, “Enjoy,” Diamond defended himself against critics, arguing that artists who sample music are often regarded as geniuses, whereas he and his team are accused of mere copying.
He emphasized his perspective with a statement: “Niko angani to TORONTO CANADA, naskia huko duniani kila nyumba, Club chochoro na kona ya Mtandao Gumzo ni Enjoy. Hayo Mengine niachie mie….Ukisikia Mtoto anapiga kelele ujue bakora imemuingia!…Maana Wakifanya Wengine, utaskia Magenius Wanaakili Wamesample, tukifanya sie tumekopi! Wangekua waumiza vichwa kweli wangeimba Mangaka, lizombe au Lingunjumu Ngoma na miziki ya kwetu…Mbona wameenda Kudandia Amapiano? tena zakuandikiwa… Nyenyenye! Nyenyenye! Fyuuuuu!.”
An online blog has compiled a list of songs by Diamond that are alleged to have similarities with Nigerian artists’ songs. For example, “Enjoy” is said to sound like Spyro’s “Who is your guy,” while “Yataniua,” a song featuring Mbosso, is believed to have been inspired by Asake’s “PBuy.” Similarly, “Jeje” bears resemblances to Wizkid’s “Joro,” and “Gidi” seems to have similarities with Burna Boy’s “Gbona.” Additionally, there are claims of similarities between Diamond’s “Show You Money” and Wizkid’s, “Tems’ Essence,” and Naira Marley’s “Soapy,” which sound like “Baba Lao.”
The accusations prompted reactions from other Tanzanian artists, including Diamond’s rivals Ali Kiba and Harmonize. Ali Kiba expressed concern over the negative impact of plagiarism on Tanzanian music and urged young artists to refrain from such practices. Harmonize, on the other hand, discouraged unnecessary feuds and conflicts among artists. He advocated for learning from Nigerian artists and focusing on personal growth, emphasizing unity and support within the African music community.
In conclusion, Diamond has defended himself against accusations of copying songs from Nigerian artists, stating that sampling is a common practice and should not be confused with plagiarism. The situation sparked discussions among Tanzanian artists, with some calling for more originality and unity within the music industry.
