Is Afro-Rock Making a Comeback in 2023?

In recent years, the genre known as Zamrock, which emerged in Zambia during the 1970s, has seen a remarkable revival, with artists like Sampa the Great at the forefront of this resurgence. By blending traditional Zambian sounds with psychedelic rock, Sampa aims to reintroduce Zamrock's bold, post-colonial spirit to a new audience. This article explores the current status of Zamrock, its historical significance, and what its revival means for artists and fans alike.

Last updated: 21 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As Zamrock gains international recognition, artists worldwide are rediscovering its unique sound. Sampa the Great, a prominent figure in the contemporary music scene, is set to release her third studio album, heavily influenced by the Zamrock movement. Her first single, "Can't Hold Us", showcases the vibrant energy and cultural depth of Zamrock, featuring dynamic riffs and assertive lyrics that echo the genre's roots. The revival of Zamrock is not just a nostalgic look back but a reimagining that seeks to connect with modern audiences while honouring its historical significance.

Key takeaways

• Zamrock is experiencing a revival, with artists like Sampa the Great leading the charge.
• The genre blends psychedelic rock with traditional Zambian music, reflecting a post-colonial identity.
• Contemporary musicians, including international stars, are sampling Zamrock tracks, reinvigorating interest in the genre.

Timeline: how we got here

The Zamrock movement began in the 1970s, coinciding with Zambia's independence from British colonial rule. Key milestones include:

• 1970s: Zamrock emerges as a musical genre in Zambia, blending rock influences with traditional sounds.
• 1980s: The genre declines due to economic crises and the HIV/AIDS epidemic, leading to the loss of many artists.
• 2010s: Zamrock is rediscovered by Western collectors, with labels like Now-Again Records reissuing classic albums.
• 2020s: Sampa the Great and other contemporary artists begin to incorporate Zamrock into their music, sparking renewed interest.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Sampa the Great's upcoming album, which features the single "Can't Hold Us", marks a significant contribution to the Zamrock revival. Her approach, termed "nu Zamrock", aims to merge traditional rhythms with modern hip-hop influences, showcasing the genre's versatility.

What was already established

The foundational elements of Zamrock, such as its innovative fusion of rock and Zambian musical traditions, were already recognised in the 1970s. Artists like WITCH and Amanaz laid the groundwork for what would become a distinct musical identity that resonated with the country's socio-political landscape.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The resurgence of Zamrock may lead to increased interest in global music genres among UK audiences, fostering cultural exchange through music. This could influence playlists, music festivals, and even local artists experimenting with Zamrock's sound.

Businesses and jobs

Record labels and music venues in the UK might benefit from the growing popularity of Zamrock by hosting events or releasing compilations that celebrate the genre. Moreover, the revival could inspire UK-based artists to explore collaborations with Zambian musicians, creating new job opportunities in the music industry.

Policy and regulation

As Zamrock gains traction, it may lead to discussions surrounding copyright and intellectual property rights, particularly concerning the sampling of older tracks by contemporary artists. This could prompt regulatory bodies to evaluate existing frameworks to protect artists' rights while fostering creative innovation.

Numbers that matter

• 5: The number of founding members of WITCH who died from AIDS, highlighting the impact of the epidemic on Zamrock.
• £74 to £740: The price range for original Zamrock records, illustrating the genre's collectible status.
• 50+: The number of years since Zamrock's inception, showcasing its enduring legacy as a cultural movement.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Zamrock: A music genre that blends psychedelic rock with traditional Zambian music, emerging in the 1970s.
• WITCH: An acronym for We Intend To Cause Havoc, a prominent Zamrock band formed in the 1970s.
• Nu Zamrock: A contemporary interpretation of Zamrock, incorporating modern genres like hip-hop.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Watch for Sampa the Great's album release and promotional activities surrounding it, which can offer insights into the evolving Zamrock sound.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Monitor the emergence of new artists from Zambia who may further explore Zamrock influences, contributing to its evolution and popularity.

Signals to watch

• Sales and streaming numbers for Zamrock records, which may indicate growing interest.
• Collaborations between Zambian artists and international musicians.
• Increased coverage of Zamrock in music media outlets, potentially leading to more events and festivals.

Practical guidance

Do

• Explore Zamrock music through streaming platforms to gain a deeper appreciation of its history and evolution.
• Attend local music festivals that feature international acts, particularly those showcasing Zamrock artists.

Don’t

• Assume Zamrock is just a relic of the past; its influence continues to shape contemporary music.
• Overlook the importance of understanding the cultural context behind Zamrock’s resurgence.

Checklist

• Research Zamrock artists and their contributions to music.
• Explore how contemporary musicians are integrating Zamrock into their work.
• Stay updated on upcoming events or festivals celebrating Zamrock.
• Support local record stores that feature Zamrock collections.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the revival of Zamrock presents exciting opportunities, there are risks associated with the genre being commercialised or appropriated without proper acknowledgment of its origins. The potential for oversimplification of Zamrock's rich history into mere samples could undermine its cultural significance. Additionally, as interest grows, artists may face pressures to conform to market trends, which could dilute the genre's authenticity.

Bottom line

The resurgence of Zamrock represents a significant cultural revival, with artists like Sampa the Great at the helm, blending tradition with contemporary influences. As the genre gains popularity, it not only reconnects Zambian artists with their roots but also introduces a vibrant musical legacy to a global audience. This movement encourages both young and seasoned artists to explore their heritage while creating new sounds that resonate with today's listeners.

FAQs

What is Zamrock?

Zamrock is a genre that blends psychedelic rock with traditional Zambian music, emerging in the 1970s as a bold expression of post-colonial identity.

Who are some key artists in Zamrock?

Notable artists include WITCH, Amanaz, and Sampa the Great, who are instrumental in both the original and revived movements.

Why is Zamrock gaining international attention now?

Zamrock's resurgence is due to its unique sound and cultural significance, with contemporary artists sampling its music and promoting its rich history.