Vanessa Hau Mdee (born 7 June 1988), popularly known as Vee Money, is a Tanzanian singer, songwriter, rapper, television personality, and radio host. She gained prominence as the first Tanzanian MTV VJ, later transitioning into music where she became one of East Africa’s most celebrated female artists. Known for her chart-topping singles like Closer, Niroge, Nobody But Me, and her debut album Money Mondays (2018), Vanessa has left a lasting mark on the Bongo Flava, R&B, and Afropop scene.
Early Life and Education
Vanessa Mdee was born on 7 June 1988 in Arusha, Tanzania. Raised in a multicultural environment, she spent part of her upbringing in New York, Paris, Nairobi, and Arusha, which exposed her to diverse cultures and artistic influences.
She attended Arusha Modern High School for her secondary studies before enrolling at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa in Nairobi, where she pursued a Law degree. However, her passion for the creative arts pushed her towards media and music, setting the stage for her entertainment career.
Media Career
Mdee’s big break came in 2007, when she won a spot on the MTV VJ Search, becoming Tanzania’s first MTV Video Jockey. She went on to host Coca-Cola Chart Express and later built a reputation as one of Africa’s most dynamic media personalities.
She hosted several shows including Epic Bongo Star Search, Dume Challenge, Senses, Sounds and Wisdom, and MTV’s Base Select 10. Her career also included humanitarian advocacy, working with UNAIDS, GAVI Alliance, Malaria No More, and serving as a speaker at international forums, such as the World Economic Forum for Africa.
In 2011, she joined Choice FM Tanzania as a radio host for The Hitlist, interviewing major African and global artists like Rick Ross, Miguel, Ludacris, and Kelly Rowland.
Music Career
Vanessa Mdee officially launched her music career in 2012 after signing with B’Hits Music Group. She first collaborated with AY on Money and Ommy Dimpoz on Me and You, which won Song of the Year at the *2013 Kilimanjaro Music Awards.
Her breakout single, “Closer” (2013), achieved record-breaking success, with over 30,000 downloads in its first week and a 13-week run on music charts. She went on to release hits such as Come Over, Hawajui, Niroge, and Nobody But Me (featuring South African rapper K.O.).
In 2018, she released her debut album Money Mondays, which included collaborations with Reekado Banks, Cassper Nyovest, Radio & Weasel, Mohombi, and Konshens. The album broke streaming records in East Africa and solidified her as a top-tier artist.
She later signed with Universal Music Group, expanding her influence globally.
Acting and TV Projects
Vanessa Mdee also showcased her acting skills, appearing in MTV Shuga: Down South, where she played Stormi. She was later chosen as a judge for East Africa’s Got Talent in 2019, further highlighting her status as a multifaceted entertainer.
Personal Life
Vanessa was previously in a high-profile relationship with Tanzanian singer Juma Jux, which ended in 2018.
In 2019, she confirmed her relationship with Nigerian-American actor and singer Rotimi, known for his role in the TV series Power. The couple announced their engagement in December 2020 and welcomed their first son in September 2021. They later had a daughter, making them parents of two children.
Vanessa is also the older sister of Mimi Mars, a rising Tanzanian singer, actress, and TV host.
Awards and Achievements
Vanessa Mdee has received multiple awards and nominations for her work in music and entertainment, including:
- 2013 Kilimanjaro Music Awards – Best Afro Pop & Best Collaboration (Me and You)
- 2014 Tanzania Music Awards – R&B Song of the Year (Closer)
- 2015 Tanzania Music Awards – Female Artist of the Year & Best Female Entertainer
- 2014 & 2015 AFRIMA Awards – Best Female Artist in East Africa
- 2015 Abryanz Style and Fashion Awards – Most Stylish Female Artist (East Africa)
- Nominations at the MTV Africa Music Awards, Nigeria Entertainment Awards, and African Muzik Magazine Awards.
Legacy
The Vanessa Mdee biography is a story of a bold, talented woman who transitioned from a law student to an MTV host, and later into one of Tanzania’s most iconic female musicians. Known for her charisma, advocacy work, and music that blends Bongo Flava, Afropop, and R&B, she continues to inspire a new generation of African artists.
Even after announcing her retirement from music in 2020, citing industry pressures and mental health struggles, her impact on East African entertainment remains unmatched.
