Zambian rap export Sampa The Great has officially released her highly anticipated 16-track album, “Nu Zamrock,” a project that reconnects her with Zambia’s musical heritage while introducing the legendary Zamrock sound to a new generation. The album blends elements of the original movement with contemporary influences, including hip-hop and Sampa’s distinctive artistic identity.
The inspiration behind the project is deeply personal. Sampa discovered that her uncle, George Kunda, popularly known as Groovy Joe, was a founding member of pioneering Zamrock band WITCH. This family connection opened a new chapter in her exploration of the genre, allowing her to approach Zamrock not only as a significant part of Zambia’s musical history but also as part of her own family legacy.
The 16-track album includes previously released singles “Can’t Hold Us” featuring Mwanjé, “Simon Says” and “Location.” It also features an impressive international and local guest lineup, with Australian singer-songwriter Sia appearing on “Supernova,” KAMAUU featuring on “Star” and Nicole Gumbe joining the project on “Gone.”
Rather than simply recreating the sounds of the past, Sampa The Great uses “Nu Zamrock” to reinterpret the rebellious spirit and creative energy that defined the original Zamrock movement. By combining those influences with modern production and her own musical expression, she creates a bridge between Zambia’s musical pioneers and today’s generation of artists and listeners.
With “Nu Zamrock,” Sampa The Great places Zambia’s cultural and musical identity at the centre of an ambitious new project. It is both a celebration of the country’s musical roots and a fresh interpretation of a sound that continues to inspire beyond its original era.
20
20
