Kenyan pop collective Matata has released a new single, ‘Nyongi’, featuring Tanzanian artist Marioo, as the first offering from its upcoming EP titled ‘ERA (East Rise Again)’, according to a press release dated 19 March 2026. The track was produced by Kenyan producer Wodomolo and was recorded in Nairobi.

Matata said the EP is planned as a six-track project scheduled for release in June. The group also announced that another single, ‘Kanairo’, is set for release in May 2026, ahead of the broader EP rollout later in the year.

The cross-border collaboration underscores a growing pattern of East African artists working across markets as streaming platforms increase the regional and international reach of music made in Nairobi, Dar es Salaam and other hubs. For Kenya’s music business, such partnerships can expand audience pools, strengthen touring and brand opportunities across the region, and increase the export potential of Kenyan music through shared fan bases.

In the release, Matata described the recording session as a Nairobi studio collaboration that brought together Sheng and Bongo Flava influences. “Something special happened when we teamed up with Marioo. We stepped into the studio in Nairobi and came out with a song that feels bigger than the room it was made in,” Matata said. “It’s Sheng meeting Bongo Flava, Nairobi meeting Dar es Salaam — different places, but the same energy. For us, this isn’t just a collaboration; it’s a moment.”

Marioo, in a separate quote, said the track was built around shared musical elements and performance energy. “Working on ‘Nyongi’ with Matata was an incredible experience. Their energy and unique sound brought something special to the record,” Marioo said. “This song celebrates rhythm, movement and the powerful East African connection in music and I’m excited for fans to experience it and see the energy Matata will bring when performing it live.”

Matata framed ‘ERA (East Rise Again)’ as a regional project expected to include artists from across East Africa. While full collaborator details were not disclosed in the statement, the group positioned the EP as part of a broader push toward a shared regional sound and larger audiences beyond the region.

Streaming performance remains a key commercial metric for East African acts seeking sponsorship, booking and distribution opportunities. Matata said it has surpassed 45 million streams and attracted more than one million listeners across 182 countries, attributing the growth to a rising international following built over the past year.

For Kenyan industry stakeholders—labels, promoters, and brand partners—the release points to continued momentum in cross-border collaborations that can help de-risk market concentration by extending reach into Tanzania and wider diaspora audiences. Such releases also increase the likelihood of multi-city tours and festival bookings, which remain an important revenue stream alongside digital distribution.

Matata said the next milestone is the May 2026 release of ‘Kanairo’, ahead of the June EP release, with additional rollout activity expected later in the year.