The Man Behind The Music

The Zambian music industry has seen a huge transformation coming into 2019 with the New Wave setting new heights in the industry. The Mood around is definitely hyped and Exciting seeing a number of New Wave acts taking center stage.
We cannot skip a beat without mentioning the talent behind the beats that make the waves. The production on the piece of art that Graces our ear certainly needs a huge mention.

In particular one single that has taken the waves, titled “Misunderstood” performed by Zambia’s singing sensation Scott Produced By Teazy Talent and JD Masio released the 7th of October 2018 ,Since then the record has attained positive critical reception.

Check out the Audio and Video in the links Below:

Scott -“Misunderstood”

Scott- “Misunderstood” (Official Video)

Taonga Zulu known professionally as Teazy or Teazytalent , is a Zambian Record producer/Rapper/ entrepreneur, Born and raised in Lusaka City.

who has also produced for several other artists like Kunkayani the Jedi,KSlayer, 94Gugu,FJay, Kachinga, Krytic, Eddie Black, Sticka Tea Gang Just to mention a few.

Teazy Talent is definitiy one of Zambias top up and coming Producers/Artist with a catalogue that shows that his always pushing the boundaries when it comes to his production.

2019 is a huge game changer for the talented young producer who has mentioned that there is more to come, His currently working on beats and Hooks with the Talented Scott intended to help shape the Zambian music industry with an international sound, the full projects will be up for purchase later this year.

Contact TEAZY on the Following:

Facebook: TEAZY

Twitter: @TheBoiHasTalent

Audiomack: TeazyTalents

#KeepItZed

CHANDA MBAO-THE BIGGER WAVE

Chanda Mbao Drops the Biggest African Hip-Hop Collaboration of the Year.

Hip-Hop artist Chanda Mbao is back with one of the biggest African Hip-Hop collaborations of the year, entitled The Bigger Wave.

After the 2018 success of Mbao’s single ‘Wave’ featuring young R&B sensation Scott, the hip-hopper has linked up with some of the biggest names in African Hip-Hop to bring us The Bigger Wave.

Hip-Hop heavyweights Laylizzy from Mozambique and Da L.E.S. from South Africa both grace the track with stellar verses putting together one of the hottest regional collaborations we’ve seen in a long time.

With epic trap production by rising star producer Chase Iyan, this track is a certified banger.

Chanda Mbao is an award-winning Zambian Hip-Hop artist who originally commenced his music career in 2012 when he was living in Miami, Florida. In 2018, Chanda propelled himself to the next level with the release of his catchy trap-inspired single Wave which featured young R&B talent Scott.

The scenic visuals were shot in a national park in Zambia giving the video a very authentic aesthetic which, when paired with the catchy song, set the region ablaze. The video went on to chart on many video countdowns including the Trace Urban Africa Top 10 and the Trace Africa African Hit 10.

The stature of this project ‘The Bigger Wave’ is undeniable and takes Chanda Mbao beyond national relevance to international importance. We look forward to seeing more game changing African Hip-Hop collaborations like this one.

Sticka The Journey Continues…

Almost A year after his debut EP “I am Sticka” the rhymetic poet and multi talented artist Chrispin Chembe is gunning for his debut album which promises to be a delightful taste to music and poet lovers.

Sticka, Whose Name is an acronym for (S)ervice of a (T)alent (I)ncited and (C)reated by (K)nowledge of the (A)lmighty, at this point, probably needs no introduction. Largely known by many as a poet,has gained a decent loyal following with most of his projects gaining amazing reviews from his listeners, critics and radio.

His unique style of delivery, living room feel emotion enveloped lyrics and approach to concepts makes him an artist worth looking out for or as may might say, “A force to reckon with”.

In his career he has already shared platforms with some of the biggest acts in Zambia and globally such as; Pompi, Donnie McClurkin, Esther chungu to mention but a few.

His journey continues to grow as he takes us on a “Road Trip” this year, which will be his debut album set for release on the 3rd December.

SlideShow – The Credits

Slide show album recently released by Swish gives a different perspective to the Zambian Music scene. Swish definitely used the right handy men on the album to bring it to life

These are the credits for the Album

Production Credit
1.  Install [Prod. by Reverb]

2.  Currently (feat. Slapdee) [Prod. by Shom C]

3.  Shasha [Prod. by Paul Kruz]

4.  Reflections [Prod. by Mr. Champs]

5.  Drop Your Emotions (feat. Eddie Black, Jedi, T-Low & Xavy) [Prod. by Reverb]

6.  Venifuna [Prod. by Reverb]

7.  Pretend Sometimes (feat. Kantu) [Prod. by 4th Profile]

8.  YouTube [Prod. by Reverb]

9.  Grow With Our Flag (feat. Chucky) [Prod. by KB K_Amy]

10. Blank CD [Prod. by Reverb]

11. Last Seen [Prod. by Mr. Champs]

12. No Chill [Prod. by Shom C]

13. Usiku Onse (feat. Tiwonenji) [Prod. by Shinko Beats]

14. Adventure [Prod. by Shom C]

15. Komana (feat. Hamoba) [Prod. by Reverb]

16. Tetris (feat. Krytic & Lady Vogue) [Prod. by Reverb]

17. Mighty Rock [Prod. by Roc Beats & Reverb]

DESIGN CREDITS:
Album Cover Design (including tracklist) by: DJ Lo of Reel Studios
Album Booklet Photography: Tony Media

ALBUM MASTERED BY:
Reverb of Levels Studio

#KeepItZed

 

Swish-SlideShow

The Zambian Music Industry has surely taken a turn in terms of the musical direction with Hip hop taking its place on the Zed Musical podium. This year has seen top Headline arts in the Game releasing  impressive hip hop albums, Swish the Avondale’s finest joins this top notch list of artists such as Chef 187,Tiye-P, Dope G,Jae Cash and Slap dee who have graced the Zambian music lovers with great albums.

With songs like “Currently” featuring SlapDee, “Drop your Emotions” Featuring the likes of Eddie Black,Jedi,T-Low and Xavy,”ShaSha” and “Reflections” already making a great presence on the scene having been released prior to the album dropping SlideShow will surely be an album to look out for this year.

The Album which is going on sale for only Zmw 70 hosts a number quality artists such as the ever impressive Krytic, the highly talented Lady Vogue, former XZY top lady Kantu, Chucky, Tiwoneji and the legend himself Hamoba. 

The 17 track album boasts the highly talented Levels studio Head Reverb and is also graced by the highly talented 260 Africa producer Mr Champs, Swish who has been consistent  in the game has certainly raised the bar with his first Solo Studio Album and surely there is more to come from the talented Avondale young Artist.

#keepItZed

Swishy swish’s Slide Show

Zambian Hip Hop Artist Swish has been on the scene grinding and making rounds for a good period of time now and has indeed asserted his position in the Zed Music industry. Mr Muzungaile Farai has proven his doubters with tune and after tune making appearances on Africa’s Prime TV stations Such as Channel O and Trace TV with a uniquely different type of Rap style the Lusaka based Artist is building up a career that will surely be looked up to in future as one of kind.

Avondale’s finest is set to release his highly anticipated  debut studio Album simply titled “Slide Show” , the artist who just unveiled the Artwork for his project on social media confirmed the date for the release to be 8th September 2017. with amazing singles such asReflections And Shasha the album poses to be an exciting prospect for the Zambian Music lovers.

Swish’s Slide Show Album is set to Join a list of Amazing Zambian Hip Hop releases for 2017 with the likes of Chef 187’s Amnesia ,Dope G’s Flowers album ,Tiye P’s Red album, Jae Cash’s Giovanni and many more.

#KeepItZed

New Kid on The Block”AKAR”

Zambian Music has definitely grown and shown great potential in recent years bringing out massive new talent each year, be it producers or musicians the magic is definitely working on our industry. Our focus Artist this month is one that has great potential to take on the African greats and Indeed put the Zambian Music game on the map, Popular for his part on Jedi’s hit song “On My Own” young and gifted Rapper/Singer Rodrick Chisha Sinyangwe aka Akar is definitely a name to look forward to in the game. 

The 22 year old Zambian artist born on the 2nd of December has a distinctive style which blends in with the current crop of  New School Music.Raised by his Grandmother in the Vast neighborhood of Libala he started rapping at the tender age of 15 gathering up with high school friends exchanging ideas and spitting bars for fun. 

AKAR who is inspired by Multi award winning artists such as Kanye West, Drake and Lil  wayne has definitely grown into an artist that can bring alot of good things for his career, set to release his debut single titled “CHUMA” which features the highly talented rapper half member of the rap duo “The Kicks” Jedi  on the 25th of May 2017. A definite Must have single 

#KeepitZed

#Singledropping25May

Chanda Mbao

From My Town to your town his name will definitely be a household name, Chanda Mbao has taken on  the Zambian Music Industry  head first and is certainly pulling the right crowd to get where his needs to be in no time. with his latest single “My Town” which features Kaladoshas making waves not only in Zed but also across Africa  as well Mr Mbao is heading in the Right direction. We where previliaged to have a Q & A with Him and this is how it went down.

​When and why did you start writing music? 

I started writing my first raps when I was around 9 years old inspired by my first Hip-Hop albums. I had the original Friday movie soundtrack, Snoop Dogg’s Doggystyle and a few classic Hip-Hop compilations.

 Which instruments do you play?
None unfortunately. I always dreamed of playing the classical guitar.

Is your family musical?
Not really, to be honest music was something I got into on my own.

Which famous musicians do you admire? Why?
Nas is my favourite rapper. His ability to paint pictures with his words was something that always amazed me as a kid.

Which famous musicians have you learned from?
Nas, Jay-Z, Eminem, Kanye West, Drake, J. Cole…it’s a long list that continues because I try and pick up a lot of lessons from the greats.

What are your fondest musical memories? In your house? In your neighborhood or town?
There are recurring images like those of waiting for your favourite music video to play. I remember that feeling I used to get as a kid when “It Ain’t Hard to Tell” would come on TV. I also remember keeping rhyme books and sharing rhymes with my childhood friend over the phone. The rap battles we would have in primary and high school.

Were you influenced by old records & tapes? Which ones?
Absolutely, “Doggstyle” was my first Hip-Hop album and the emotional experience Snoop created was something I will always remember. I was scared when I listened to songs like ‘Serial Killer’ and ‘Murder Was the Case’ but there was something so enigmatic about the raw storytelling.

Who are your favourite musicians? Groups? CD’s?
Tom Jobim is probably my favorite musician—he is credited as one of the fathers of ‘Bossa Nova’, a genre of Brazilian jazz. The music moves me more than anything. Nas, Jay-Z and Eminem are my Top 3 rappers. Illmatic, The Blueprint and The Marhsall Mathers LP probably being my respective favourite albums of theirs.

Do you perform in public? Describe those occasions? Concerts, radio, TV?
In 2016, I have only done one performance but I’ve been on radio and TV a good bit. My performances are VERY hype! In fact, I have a show coming up on Friday 2nd December, 2016 called “Star Night” that people should come to In order to see what I mean.

Follow the link to get more information on the show.

(https://www.facebook.com/events/1843188732581523/?ti=cl)

In my interviews, I’m honest and try and give thoughtful responses to the questions I’m asked.

 How do you handle mistakes during a performance?
Just keep going!

Do you get nervous before a performance or a competition?
Typically not. Sometimes there will be a little nervousness right before the performance but as soon as you step on stage, it goes away.

What advice would you give to beginners who are nervous?
When performing, pick a person or a few people in the crowd and focus on them. Look them in the eyes etc. then it won’t feel like there are a million people staring at you.

Do you attend sessions? What makes a good session?
Because of my 9 to 5, I go to the studio on the weekends. A good session is good vibes with the producer and featured artist (if there is one). It’s constructive and everyone brings valuable ideas to the table.

How often and for how long do you practice?
I’m in the studio for about 4 hours a time at least once a week. Maybe some time in the near future I will be able to have a daily routine.

How do you balance your music with other obligations – mate, children, job?
Very busy weekends! Ha ha!

Check out the video for his latest single  “My Town” featuring Kaladoshas shot by Ikonik Media 

Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9txFcGxHxo

The sky is definitely not the limit for this high flying artist, Chanda Mbao look out for that name!!!

#KeepitZed

“I Am Sticka” EP

The art of poetry is one that has grown in Zambia over the few years introducing a variety of Talent that had not been seen for a long time. Brands Such as Bittersweet Poetry have given birth to highly talented and skillful poets and comedians who have grown to be household names in the recent years. Having come from such a background STICKA a Zambian young and gifted Poet is set to Change The “Poetry Game” with his New Ep set for release this November.

The  Ep simply  titled “I AM STICKA” which acronymically speaking means “SERVICE OF A TALENT INCITED AND CREATED BY KNOWLEDGE OF THE ALMIGHTY”, is an introductory project of the rhythmical poet “STICKA”.

This extraordinary Project features the likes of WEZI HEARTSOUND, ESTHER CHUNGU, TWENTY6 and SARAH MIXIE. 

The Promotional Art work for “I am Sticka Ep”

In this project, Sticka intends to connect particularly with people that appreciate the depth, authenticity and honesty of lyrics and music altogether.

Fuelled by purpose and passion, he writes to inspire such in the lives of those that listen to what God has poured/continues to pour in and through him.

The Ep is a display of great and young talented Zambian artists and is definitely a must have on any musical list

With already one single out off the unrevealed project list the “I am Sticka Ep” is and will be a statement of great intent by Sticka on the Zambian Music Industry 

Check out Eagles off the E.P featuring the amazing Esther Chungu from Brave Only Music firm

Eagles available for download here : https://itsretunes.com/sticka.html

Enough said, come November 25 and get yourself a copy.

Also Look out for the 2nd single off the E.P “Gone to soon” To be released on the 7th of November 2016

 #KeepitZed  

Chembo

Young, Energetic and with a great passion for orginal music her stage presence speaks volumes as her voice captives her audience with beautiful melodies and tunes, Chembo is definitely Zambia’s Next Big prospect. A young independent Artist who has grown into the music industy since first her single in 2014 “Tightrope”she offers a whole new level of Quality music and is set for more prominent heights in Africa.

We had a chat with her to find out a little more about her on our Zed Q&A Session here is what she had to share: 

When and why did you start playing?

I feel like I’ve been making music my whole life   because  I’ve always been writing and coming up with melodies long before I stepped into a recording studio. But taking it seriously I would say 2014 when I recorded tightrope 🙂

Which instruments do you play?

I sort of play guitar, soon as I get really good and confident enough I’ll be whipping it out on stage lol

What was the first tune(s) you learned?

I think nursery rhymes are like the first songs you learn and.of course Church songs. I’m putting my money on it being “Jesus loves me yes I know” lol.best song ever!

 Is your family musical?

Kind of, my dad’s brothers used to be in a band in the 70s and 80s in Zambia, can’t remember the name though and my mum used to sing in the choir and still does and my parents both loved music and played  a lot of reggae and country and earth wind and fire around the house when I was little so the answer is yes.

Describe your family member’s musical interests and abilities.

I guess the above covers it lol

Which famous musicians do you admire? Why?

I really LOVE Aretha Franklin because she was sassy and sharp tongued in a time women weren’t expected to say or sing about what she was saying. Especially black women.

I also really love Kanye West because I feel being incredible.at producing and rapping at once is incredible and he’s effortless with it

 I also love General Ozzy I know this sounds random but I think he’s a legend in our industry and has had hit after hit and he has really elevated Zambian music.

 Which famous musicians have you learned from?

Umm so many tbh even like unknown musicians that aren’t huge just yet there’s a girl called rivers. I admire and learn from a lot of musicians 

I would say though watching behind the scenes of Beyoncé  rehearsing inspires me to really put in 100%. I’ve learnt a lot about using my voice from Aretha Franklin,Billie Holiday, Nina Simon,  Mumba Yachi so many!!

 

 Who was your first teacher? Other teachers?

I do not remember my first teacher to be honest lol. My first music teacher was Mrs Goodson at St Joseph high school in Wrexham.

Describe your first instrument. Other instruments.

I think guitar.

What are your fondest musical memories? In your house? In your neighborhood or town?

Fondest? My mum and dad dancing to Ijahman pillow talk in the living room. I remember dancing a lot as a child to like any music I liked.

Were you influenced by old records & tapes? Which ones?

Yeah A LOT OF THEM. I bought Al greens Best of album at 14 and I was given Aretha Franklin greatest hits at 16 by my auntie and It made my obsession with the 60s and earlier grow rapidly.

Who are your favorite musicians? Groups? CD’s?

Favourites, that’s so hard, I love Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Jill Scott, Kanye West, Brenda Fassie, The Supremes, Al Green, Prince, MJ, Ijahman Levi, TOO MANY

Have you been in competitions? Fleadh’s? Any prizes?

Nah I haven’t really done any competitions to be honest apart from dancing at a Hiphop dance  competition and coming in 2nd.place

Do you perform in public? Describe those occasions? Concerts, radio, TV?

I have done a lot of those most recently Lake of Stars Festival in Malawi at the beginning of October this year which is so far my favourite and.most growing experience musically as.far as performance goes. I learnt a lot and had a lot of fun!

Chembo graces the stage at the lake of Stars Festival in Malawi 

How do you handle mistakes during a performance?

I just keep it moving because well you can’t just stop in.your tracks. The show must always go on

Do you get nervous before a performance or a competition?

Always but when I get started I feel fine. I think.when you love something you don’t want to mess up so.you get nervous

What advice would you give to beginners who are nervous?

I feel I’m still a beginner in some way because I haven’t yet done my 10,000 hours in music but I would say just do it. Go for it and don’t look back.Motivate yourself practice  and you will be amazing

How often and for how long do you practice?

I practice a lot these days more than I used if I’m Honest because after lake of Stars I saw that I had much work to do

What do you practice – exercises, new tunes, hard tunes, etc.?

I practice my writing skills and also coming up with melodies is a trial and error thing. I also sing A LOT, I do vocal exercises via youtube also and it has helped me a lot
How do you balance your music with other obligations – mate, children, job?

I’m not married nor do I have children. I feel music is my number one job and the rest comes after. Everything works around my music now. I am an Independent artist so I’m unsigned and pay for everything myself from photoshoots to venues to recording to guitarists is all me so this is my main job until I’m making residual income and living on a farm with my animals. 

Social media : 

Twitter : www.twitter.com/chembomusic 

Facebook : www.fb.com/chembomusic 

Instagram : www.instagram.com/chembomusic 

Soundcloud : www.soundcloud.com/chembomusic 

Youtube Channel : Chembomusic