Lava Lava bids farewell to Wasafi: End of an era or a new beginning?

Another chapter closes at WCB Wasafi, the powerhouse label founded by Diamond Platnumz, as longtime signee Abdul Juma Idd popularly known as Lava Lava reportedly parts ways—just weeks after Mbosso’s exit.

Baba Levo, a trusted ally of Diamond, confirmed the news in an emotional Instagram post, praising Lava Lava’s journey and the unwavering support he received from his mentor, whom he referred to as “elder LUKUGA.”

Lava Lava, who officially joined Wasafi in 2017 with his hit Tuachane, was nurtured into stardom by Diamond through countless collaborations and strategic guidance.

Baba Levo commended him for now being ready to stand on his own, suggesting that his departure paves the way for fresh talent under the Wasafi banner.

Though rumors of his exit have circulated before—rumors he denied in 2021—this time, the silence from Wasafi and the warm farewell have fueled speculation that his departure is real and final.

His exit marks a dwindling roster at Wasafi, now left with only Zuchu signed in 2020 and DVoice signed in2023 among its originally signed stars.

WCB Wasafi signee Lava Lava. Photo: Instagram
WCB Wasafi signee Lava Lava. Photo: Instagram

From Rich Mavoko to Harmonize, Rayvanny and Mbosso, Mr. Love Bite joins a growing list of artists who’ve walked away from the label that helped define Tanzanian music for nearly a decade.

Whether this signals Wasafi’s decline or a reinvention remains to be seen—but for fans, it’s the end of yet another musical era.

Artists Who Have Previously Exited WCB Wasafi

1. Harmonize

Joined: 2015
Left: 2019
Reason:

  • Alleged frustrations with management, lack of artistic freedom, and revenue sharing disagreements.
  • Paid a hefty exit fee (reportedly over TSh 500 million) to break his contract.
  • Went on to start Konde Music Worldwide.

2. Rich Mavoko

Joined: 2016
Left: 2018
Reason:

  • Cited exploitation and lack of support compared to other Wasafi artists.
  • Claimed his music releases were delayed or blocked.
  • Left amid tension and went independent.
Former WCB Wasafi signees from L-R Rayvanny, Rich Mavoko, Queen Darleen and Harmonize. Photo: Instagram
Former WCB Wasafi signees from L-R Rayvanny, Rich Mavoko, Queen Darleen and Harmonize. Photo: Instagram

3. Rayvanny

Joined: 2016
Left: 2022
Reason:

  • Wanted to focus on building his own label, Next Level Music.
  • Reportedly maintained a good relationship with Wasafi and exited amicably.
  • Expressed desire for more control over his career and branding.

4. Queen Darleen

Joined: Early 2010s (officially around 2017)
Left: Unofficially departed by 2022
Reason:

  • Not publicly disclosed, but reduced presence and inactivity under the label suggested a quiet exit.
  • Focused more on personal life and business ventures.
Mbosso with his former boss WCB CEO Diamond Platnumz. Photo: Instagram
Mbosso with his former boss WCB CEO Diamond Platnumz. Photo: Instagram

5. Mbosso

Joined: 2018
Left: 2024 (reported)
Reason:

  • Pursuing independence and growth beyond WCB.
  • Though no scandal was involved, fans speculated creative differences or desire for autonomy.

6. Lava Lava

Joined: Signed in 2015, unveiled in 2017
Left: 2024 (reported)
Reason:

  • Not officially confirmed by Lava Lava, but close ally Baba Levo hinted at his departure.
  • Likely seeking independence and growth, as he previously hinted at starting his own group (Bite Gang).
Mr. Love Bite with his boss,CEO of WCB Wasafi records  Diamond Platnumz. Photo: Online
Mr. Love Bite with his boss,CEO of WCB Wasafi records Diamond Platnumz. Photo: Online

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