Jagari Calls for Authentic Zambian Sound: “Kalindula Isn’t Ours, Let’s Create Music from Our 72 Ethnic Groups”

WITCH founder challenges musicians to develop truly original Zambian music identity

Legendary Zambian musician Emmanuel “Jagari” Chanda has made bold statements challenging the music industry to move beyond borrowed sounds and create authentic Zambian music. Furthermore, the WITCH founder argues that musicians should draw inspiration from the country’s diverse cultural heritage rather than relying on external influences.

The Call for Musical Authenticity

During a recent interview with Nkwazi Magazine, Jagari emphasized that Zambian musicians have a unique opportunity to develop original sounds. He says musicians have an opportunity to create a truly Zambian sound by drawing from the traditions of the 72 ethnic groups, each with its own rhythms and styles, and blending them into music the world can instantly recognise.

Questioning Kalindula’s Origins

Jagari’s comments directly challenge the widespread adoption of Kalindula as Zambian music. While many consider Kalindula a cornerstone of Zambian musical identity, the genre’s origins remain disputed, with “many claims point to the Democratic Republic of Congo” rather than Zambia.

Although “Kalindula music is deeply embedded in Zambia’s cultural heritage” and “derived from the traditional music of the Bemba,” emerging “as a unique style in the 1980s”, Jagari suggests this may not represent authentic Zambian creativity.

Understanding Kalindula’s Role

In previous interviews, Jagari acknowledged that “Kalindula is one form that is recognised in Zambia as authentic music from a rural setup” originating from “the central part of Zambia, up to near Congo”. However, his latest statements suggest a shift toward encouraging more original musical expression.

The Vision for Zambian Musical Identity

Jagari’s proposal centers on Zambia’s incredible ethnic diversity as a source of musical innovation. Additionally, his vision involves creating music that blends various traditional elements into something uniquely recognizable as Zambian on the global stage.

Cultural Resources Available

Zambia’s 72 ethnic groups represent an untapped reservoir of musical possibilities. Furthermore, each group brings distinct:

• Rhythmic patterns and percussion styles
• Traditional instruments and playing techniques
• Vocal traditions and harmonies
• Cultural stories and themes
• Dance movements and performance styles

Historical Context of Zambian Music

The Zamrock Era

Jagari’s musical legacy began with WITCH (We Intend To Cause Havoc), pioneers of the Zamrock movement in the 1970s. Moreover, this period represented Zambia’s first major contribution to international music recognition.

During the Zamrock era, “the country’s newfound wealth brought with it urban sensibilities and a surge in interest in electric guitar use”, creating a unique fusion of Western rock and African rhythms.

Evolution to Kalindula

The transition from Zamrock saw “Paul Ngozi of the Ngozi Family credited with creating the kalindula sound, a rhythmic pop music sound with fuzzy electric guitar leads centred around the bass”. However, questions about its authenticity as purely Zambian remain.

Modern Musical Landscape

Current Trends

Contemporary Zambian music has seen “new music genres emerge that are hugely popular among Zambia’s youth,” including “Zed Beats” which represents “a fusion of sounds that are essentially R&B and pop songs” with Zambian elements.

The Challenge of Originality

Jagari’s call comes at a time when many African countries are seeking to establish distinct musical identities. Furthermore, his challenge to Zambian musicians reflects broader conversations about cultural authenticity versus commercial appeal.

Industry Response and Implications

Musicians’ Dilemma

Jagari’s statements present both an opportunity and a challenge for contemporary Zambian musicians. Additionally, artists must balance:

• Commercial viability versus cultural authenticity
• International appeal versus local identity
• Traditional preservation versus modern innovation
• Individual creativity versus collective heritage

Potential Impact

If musicians embrace Jagari’s vision, the result could be:

• A distinctive Zambian sound recognizable worldwide
• Greater appreciation for the country’s ethnic diversity
• New opportunities for cultural tourism and export
• Enhanced pride in local musical heritage

The Path Forward

Research and Documentation

Creating music from 72 ethnic groups requires extensive research and documentation of traditional sounds. Furthermore, this presents opportunities for:

• Cultural preservation projects
• Academic partnerships with universities
• Community engagement with traditional leaders
• Youth education about cultural heritage

Collaboration Opportunities

Jagari’s vision necessitates collaboration between:

• Traditional musicians and contemporary artists
• Different ethnic communities
• Local and international producers
• Government cultural departments and private musicians

Global Recognition Potential

International Market Appeal

Music that authentically represents Zambia’s diversity could capture international attention. Additionally, world music audiences increasingly seek unique, culturally rooted sounds rather than generic pop adaptations.

Cultural Export Value

Developing authentic Zambian music could position the country as a significant cultural exporter. Furthermore, this aligns with broader African musical movements gaining global recognition.

Conclusion: A Musical Challenge

Jagari’s bold statement represents more than criticism of Kalindula; it’s a call to action for Zambian musical creativity. His challenge to create music from the country’s 72 ethnic groups offers a pathway to authentic cultural expression that could resonate globally.

The legendary musician’s vision requires collaboration, research, and innovation from the current generation of Zambian artists. Furthermore, success would create a musical legacy that truly represents Zambia’s rich cultural diversity while contributing something unique to world music.

As discussions about musical authenticity continue, Jagari’s call serves as both inspiration and challenge for musicians ready to explore the depths of Zambian cultural heritage. The question remains whether contemporary artists will embrace this vision and create the truly Zambian sound he envisions.