Zamrock – 1970s Zambian Psychedelic Rock

Jimi Hendrix’s acid guitar, James Brown’s funk and Rolling Stones rock and roll mixed with the local rhythms in Zambia in the 1970s created the genre Zamrock. 

Zambia gained independence in 1964 from the British, and as optimistic times followed, Zamrock flourished in the landlocked country of Southern Africa. In the homeland the Zamrockers were considered hippies and freakish. The themes most of the Zamrock classics revolved around everyday injustices, politics and the wide range of social tension that the Zambian recession brought with it. 

W.I.T.C.H.

“We Intend to Cause Havoc”, led by Emanuel “Jagari” Chanda, was one of the most popular Zamrock bands in the golden post-independence days. The group, who originated from the notorious Chamboli Mine Township, intended to wreak havoc, and that’s just what they did. With they’re fairly large following in the local music scene following them everywhere they played. 

With the collapse of the economy in the late 1970s, WITCH, like most Zamrock bands were forced to play during daytime to avoid curfews, and eventually faded away by the early 1980s.

Lay back and check out the funky drums, rhythm guitar and dirty guitar solo by Chris “Kims” Mbewe, on “That’s What I Want” here: