Alikiba speaks on adapting sound to attract Gen Z audience
By Steve Ireri, May 31, 2026Tanzanian music star Alikiba has opened up about the pressures of staying relevant in the ever-changing music industry, revealing that he has repeatedly reinvented his sound to connect with younger audiences, especially Gen Z fans.
Speaking during an interview with a local radio station on Sunday, May 31, 2026, Alikiba also hinted at the reality of eventually stepping away from the industry, saying that the timing of his exit is something only God knows.
“The time will come, yes, it will come, but on that I would say only God knows clearly the date,” he said, suggesting that, while retirement is inevitable, it is not something he can currently determine.
The award-winning artist reflected on the challenges of maintaining his status as a top-tier performer, noting that many musicians lose relevance because they fail to keep up with changing industry demands.
He explained that sustaining a successful music career requires constant awareness of what the industry and audiences want, especially as new generations of listeners continue to emerge.
Alikiba pointed out that Gen Z listeners have become a major force in shaping music trends, pushing artists to adjust their sound, style, and delivery in order to remain competitive.
“And it has not been easy to maintain my status because there are many good artistes who fell at some point. There is a process you follow to maintain your status and calibre as an artiste. You should always read what the industry needs. Things change, and you know many generations listen to music, and you see there is Gen Z also,” he said, adding that this motivation has pushed him to evolve his music over time.
The singer revealed that he has undergone multiple transformations throughout his career, saying he has rebranded his music close to four times in order to remain relevant to different audiences.
He emphasised that rebranding in music goes beyond personality, explaining that it mainly involves changing sound, production style, and artistic direction to match industry shifts.
According to him, this process is not easy, as it requires careful study of the music landscape and continuous adaptation to new trends and listener preferences.
Alikiba noted that different generations consume music differently, and artistes must be flexible enough to adjust without losing their identity.
“And I want Gen Z to receive me more bigly. That means I have changed my sound and I have rebranded myself close to four times to be able to appeal to audiences. And rebranding takes a lot, as does the style of music and look also, not like the personality as such. So I have my own way,” he added.