EXCLUSIVE — A CALL TO ACTION: APPRECIATING LOCAL TALENT AND PRESERVING ZAMBIA’S MUSICAL HERITAGE.
Born Chisenga Katongo in Lusaka, Zambia, popularly known as ‘C.R.I.$.I.$.’ However, he is also known to many as ‘Crisis Mr. Swagger.
In a remarkable coincidence, Zambian rapper Chisenga’s 2015 song has gained new attention after international artist Tyler, The Creator sampled the same Paul Ngozi track just three days ago. This unexpected connection has sparked excitement among Zambian music enthusiasts, but also raised important questions about the appreciation and recognition of local talent. Chisenga took to Facebook to express his sentiments, highlighting the lack of support he received for his innovative work nine years ago.
“I’ve spent over 20 years in the music industry, driven by a passion to elevate Zambian music and culture on the global stage. One of my most personal and significant projects was a track called Translation, which featured a sample from Nizakapanga Ngozi, a song by the legendary Paul Ngozi. Meeting Paul when I was around 16 years old in Woodlands, Lusaka, was a defining moment for me as an artist. That brief encounter cemented my desire to honor his legacy, which eventually led me to create Translation as a tribute to one of Zambia’s greatest musical pioneers. This is the man that people referred to as the Jimi Hendrix of Africa” He wrote.
“When I released Translation, it didn’t receive the recognition I’d hoped for in Zambia, despite it resonating strongly with my Australian audience, where the track was celebrated. My work has even been honored by being included in the Belmont Museum in Australia—something I’m incredibly proud of” He added.
“Recently, I’ve seen Zambians praise Tyler, The Creator, for using the same sample from Paul Ngozi’s song, with little acknowledgment of the fact that I had done it first. While I respect Tyler’s artistry, this reaction highlights a deeper issue: we often wait for international validation to celebrate our own, instead of supporting the artists who are doing incredible things for Zambian music from the ground up” — Chisenga.
Chisenga’s experience serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of valuing and preserving Zambia’s rich musical heritage. By sampling Paul Ngozi’s legendary song, both Chisenga and Tyler, The Creator demonstrate the timeless appeal of Zambian music. However, the disparity in recognition and acclaim between local and international artists underscores the need for greater support and appreciation of homegrown talent. As Chisenga’s story illustrates, local artists often pave the way for global discoveries, yet their contributions may go unacknowledged or underappreciated.
As we celebrate this unexpected international nod to Zambia’s musical legacy, let us also recognize the pioneers and innovators within our own borders. It is crucial that we prioritize the preservation and promotion of local sounds, acknowledging the significance of artists like Chisenga, Paul Ngozi, and many others who have shaped Zambia’s musical identity. By doing so, we foster a vibrant cultural ecosystem that inspires future generations and ensures our unique heritage remains vibrant and relevant. Let us join Chisenga’s call to action and champion local talent, embracing the rich musical diversity that makes Zambia proud.
As we look to the future, let us learn from Chisenga’s story and prioritize the preservation and promotion of Zambia’s rich musical heritage. Together, we can create a brighter future for the local artists cement Zambia’s places on the global music map.
