Very Cool: The 70s Afro-Rock Genre Enjoying a Surprising Rebirth
Artists and music enthusiasts worldwide are rediscovering the vibrant 1970s sound of Zambia, known as Zamrock, with a modern twist. One of the country’s brightest stars, Sampa the Great, is leading this revival as she crafts her third studio album, inspired by this unique musical movement that emerged over 50 years ago.
– Cultural Significance: Sampa emphasizes the genre’s essence, stating, We were looking for a sound and a voice that was so post-colonial. And Zamrock was that sound – a sound of new freedom, of boldness. This sentiment resonates deeply, especially considering her international acclaim with performances at major festivals like Glastonbury and Coachella.
– Musical Blend: Zamrock uniquely merges psychedelic rock with traditional Zambian music. The first single from Sampa’s upcoming album, Can’t Hold Us, showcases this fusion, featuring driving fuzz guitars as she asserts, They don’t have the guts to match my prowess.
– Contemporary Influence: Sampa is not alone in her appreciation; contemporary artists such as Travis Scott, Yves Tumor, and Tyler, the Creator have also sampled tracks from iconic Zamrock bands like Ngozi Family and WITCH. The genre has even found its way into popular media, making appearances in HBO’s Watchmen and the Emmy-winning Ted Lasso.
The Origins of Zamrock
Zamrock emerged in the 1970s during Zambia’s post-colonial era, bursting forth as the nation experienced an economic boom. Under President Kenneth Kaunda’s Zambia first policy, radio stations were mandated to play 95% Zambian music, enabling the creation of a distinctive musical identity.
– Influences: Artists drew inspiration from international rock legends like Deep Purple and Jimi Hendrix, while still embracing their African roots. Emmanuel Chanda, the frontman of WITCH, encapsulates this blend, saying, We were influenced by rock bands, but the African aspect was also calling: ‘You can’t leave me behind.’
– Live Performances: The 1970s scene was vibrant and unapologetic, with performers dressed in bell-bottom jeans and platform shoes. WITCH, fittingly known as We Intend To Cause Havoc, captivated audiences with marathon shows, often lasting from 7 PM to 2 AM, making a bold statement in a conservative society.
The Downfall and Revival of Zamrock
Despite Zamrock’s initial success, the genre faced significant challenges. By the 1980s, Zambia’s economy began to decline, exacerbated by falling copper prices and the HIV/AIDS crisis, which claimed many artists’ lives, including five original WITCH members. Consequently, Zamrock faded into obscurity for decades.
– Rebirth: The early 2010s marked a turning point as Western collectors rediscovered Zamrock. Notably, Now-Again Records spearheaded this revival, reissuing the music of Zamrock’s icons. Eothen Egon Alapatt, the label’s founder, reflects, I figured: ‘If I’m curious about this, there’s probably other people who are curious about this.’ The result? A surge in vinyl sales, with original records fetching between $100 to $1,000.
– WITCH’s Comeback: In 2011, Now-Again released a compilation of WITCH’s music, reigniting interest in the band. This led to a reunion featuring both veteran members and younger musicians. At 74, Jagari, WITCH’s frontman, expressed amazement at their renewed popularity, saying, It’s like a new lease on life I never expected.
The Future of Zamrock
Zamrock continues to inspire new generations of artists. Sampa’s upcoming album embraces her vision of nu Zamrock, blending the genre with hip-hop influences, ensuring a fresh sound that remains homage to its roots.
– Cultural Impact: Sampa believes that Zamrock’s resurgence will be monumental, stating, The fire has been lit. It’s up to the younger generation to put more firewood to it and let the flames burn.
This unexpected revival serves as a powerful reminder of Zamrock’s rich legacy and its relevance in modern music. With artists like Sampa the Great leading the charge, the future of Zamrock looks bright, ensuring that the genre’s origins are celebrated and its influence continues to grow.