X-Plastaz originally consisted of three members and was formed to address social issues in a form that could connect with the younger generation. The original members, Ruff, Gsaan, and Ziggy, worked in a haircutting salon in the heart of Maasailand in Tanzania.

They garnered a huge following and were soon drawing crowds wherever they went. Between 1997 and 2001 they built up a following as they performed and shot different videos. They have had several hit records including, Aha, and Ushanta, and have toured extensively through Europe.

They recently added 3 more members to their group: their younger brother and sister who are extremely talented rappers, and Yamat Ole Meipuko, a Maasai singer who has won various Maasai singing competitions in his age category, and adds a unique vocal element to their rapping style.

Tragedy struck in 2006 when one of their members, Faza Nelly, was killed by a neighbor in a violent knife attack as he tried to negotiate a peaceful solution to a dispute in the neighborhood. The group was devastated but moved on in his memory.

This group is serious about making a difference and have recorded with Dutch producers, Precise, 360, and Kid Sundance. Their album release, Maasai Hip Hop, has been a top seller, drawing new fans and helping shed light on social problems in Tanzania. To learn more about this talented group, visit their website or their myspace page.