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Local musician Athuman Hammis, popularly known as Ochu Melody, has ended his musical hiatus with the release of his highly anticipated single, Nimelewa.
The song, blending Kwaito and Bongo Flava rhythms, was unveiled last week and is now available on all major digital platforms, including Boomplay, Spotify, Apple Music, and Ochu Melody’s Instagram page.
Recorded at Moja Moja Records under the production of Zest, Nimelewa tells the story of a man who turns to alcohol to cope with the emotional pain caused by his wife’s extramarital affair.
“I have released the single titled Nimelewa. The song reflects a man’s struggle with marital betrayal and the mental trauma that follows, leading him to drink excessively,” Ochu Melody explained in an interview.
“The music video is also out, and I encourage my fans to watch and feel the story behind the song.”he added
Based in Tanki Mbovu, Mbezi, Dar es Salaam, Ochu Melody is also a talented realist painter. His previous musical releases include singles such as I Can’t Breathe, Sioni, Mboni Yangu, Hello, and Mbeleyako, the latter being a tribute to the late businessman Dr. Reginald Mengi.
He is a former holder of the now-defunct Jiachie na Kili trophy and has painted portraits of notable Tanzanian and international figures, including Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, Ali Hassan Mwinyi, Benjamin Mkapa, Jakaya Kikwete, John Pombe Magufuli, and Dr. Reginald Mengi.
Last year, Ochu Melody released an Extended Play (EP) titled Ochu the Beast, which features four tracks produced by three different producers: Sina and Siwezi (Zest), Ulinitesa (Timo), and Essential (Anhda).
The EP, a showcase of his vocal versatility and songwriting skills, fuses Afro-Pop, R&B, and traditional Tanzanian sounds.
“The EP takes listeners on an emotional journey, exploring the highs and lows of love. It touches on themes of apology, resilience, anticipation, and the challenges of moving forward in life,” Ochu Melody said.
“I did not collaborate with any other artist on this EP as I wanted my fans to experience my music in its purest form.”he added
With Nimelewa, Ochu Melody marks a strong return to the music scene, offering fans a compelling mix of storytelling, rhythm, and emotional depth that underscores his growth as both a musician and a creative artist.