Rwandan musician The Ben has spoken highly of Tanzanian music icon Diamond Platnumz, describing him as a book he reads daily for inspiration. According to The Ben, Diamond Platnumz is not just a talented artist but also a savvy businessman who has built a successful music career through hard work and strategic planning. The Ben's admiration for Diamond Platnumz is evident in his music, with the two artists collaborating on the 2021 song Why.
The Ben has established himself as one of Rwanda's leading musicians, with a career spanning over a decade. Born in 2008, The Ben quickly gained popularity with his soulful voice and R&B style, earning him several awards, including the Best Afro R&B Artist and Best Song of the Year at the Salax Awards. His debut album, Amahirwe ya Nyuma, was released in 2009, followed by Ko Nahindutse in 2016, which was launched in Belgium.
Diamond Platnumz, born on October 2, 1989, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, has built a reputation as one of Africa's most successful musicians. His music career began in 2006, but it wasn't until 2009 that he gained widespread recognition with his song Kamwambie. He has since collaborated with top artists, including Davido, P-Square, and Alicia Keys, and has won numerous awards, including seven Tanzania Music Awards in 2014.
The Ben and Diamond Platnumz have performed together on stage, including at the 2023 Trace Awards in Kigali. Their collaboration on the song Why marked a significant milestone in The Ben's career, as it introduced him to a new audience and further solidified his reputation as a talented artist. The Ben's admiration for Diamond Platnumz reflects his commitment to continuous learning and improvement in his music career.
The Ben released his third album, Plenty Love, on January 1, 2025, at the BK Arena in Kigali. The album launch was a significant event, with fans eagerly anticipating new music from the Rwandan artist. In an interview in 2026, The Ben revealed plans to continue releasing new music, including another album or EP, and to further establish himself as a leading figure in African music.
Diamond Platnumz has expanded his career beyond music, founding the WCB Wasafi record label, which has signed notable artists such as Harmonize and Rayvanny. He has also launched a radio and television station, Wasafi FM and Wasafi TV, to promote Tanzanian music and provide a platform for emerging artists.
The Ben's tribute to Diamond Platnumz highlights the importance of mentorship and inspiration in the music industry. As a successful artist, The Ben recognizes the value of learning from others and pushing himself to new heights. His admiration for Diamond Platnumz serves as a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire and uplift artists across Africa.
Key points
- The Ben cites Diamond Platnumz as a role model and source of inspiration for his music career.
