'Very cool': The 70s Afro-rock genre enjoying a rebirth

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 6 min read 100% complete December 20, 2025 at 03:18 AM

AI Summary

long article 6 min

The 1970s Zambian Afro-rock genre, known as Zamrock, is experiencing a revival. Zambian-born rapper Sampa the Great is incorporating the sound into her upcoming album, drawing inspiration from its post-colonial roots and boldness. Several US artists, including Travis Scott and Tyler, the Creator, have sampled Zamrock tracks, and the music has appeared in television shows like Watchmen and Ted Lasso. Zamrock emerged in Zambia during the 1970s, a period of economic growth and a "Zambia first" policy that promoted local music. The genre blends psychedelic rock with traditional Zambian sounds and was influenced by Western rock bands while maintaining a distinct African identity.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

WITCH 70% Kenneth Kaunda ×280% Sampa the Great ×4100% Zambia ×3100%

Keywords

afro-rock 100% zamrock 90% music genre rebirth 80% 1970s music 70% zambia 60% post-colonial 50% sampa the great 50% musical movement 40% cultural identity 40%