Teen Tanzanian singer Aslay - real name Siaka Nasor - has risen through the ranks of music. Aslay who is now 18 years old was nominated for a Kora Award last year in the Best New Comer category but lost it to Nigerian act Davido.

The teen sensation, famed for his hit song, Nakusemea said that he takes his music seriously and stays away from meaningless romantic relations and drugs.

Aslay who is the first-born in his family told Word Is he has invested his money wisely.

"No one wants to live in squalor. I thank God I have managed to build two good houses one for my mother and other for rentaI and I also have a car."

Aslay was discovered by top Tanzania promoter, Said Fela who "spotted me during my performance at a show in Zanzibar where many artistes had been signed to perform including Ali Kiba and Diamond".

Aslay said that the inspiration to write a song like Nakusemea, which has a very mature and adult theme, was because of his relationship with his mother.

"When I was younger, my mother used to counsel and encourage me on many issues relating to music. Back then I was also in school so I usually told her everything including what I discussed with my fellow friends. That is how I chose the theme to the song about a man who is cheating on his wife and the son finds out. Now it has really hit."