The Flock

22/11/2023

Harmony in the house of Rastafari

Photo: Courtesy of Ras Anada

05/10/2023

MAX ROMEO'S BATTLE AGAINST ISLAND RECORDS: A WAKE-UP CALL FOR ALL ZED REGGAE ARTISTES AND SONGWRITERS

The music industry, often depicted as a realm of glamour and artistry, has its darker facets, replete with unscrupulous characters and nefarious practices. Since its inception, the world of Jamaican reggae musicians has been plagued by a longstanding issue—exploitation by record companies and publishing houses. This issue has led to hardworking artistes seeing their creations snatched away, with others profiting handsomely from their musical genius, all while the composers themselves receive no just rewards.

In a recent 2023 interview, one of the luminaries of reggae, Burning, voiced his lamentation, reflecting on the dichotomy of individuals like Mr. Coxsone Toddy, who could be seen as both good and bad. He acknowledged the contributions of Mr. Toddy while bemoaning the unfavorable treatment of musicians within the industry.

It is disheartening to observe that yet another reggae icon, Max Romeo, finds himself ensnared in a legal battle with Island Records over issues of royalties. This 78-year-old musician has chosen to take legal action against the former behemoth of the recording industry.

How do artists find themselves embroiled in such legal quagmires? One significant factor is the prevalent naivety that many musicians harbor regarding the business side of music—a trait frequently observed among local reggae artists. Often, these artists upload their music to the internet without adequate protection. Countless creators have fallen victim to having their work pilfered and repurposed in foreign lands, rendering them powerless.

Jamaican musicians have suffered disproportionately because their music has been peddled worldwide without their knowledge. As time marches on, artists must release their music strategically to secure their financial future as they age gracefully. The message is clear: safeguard your music, or risk becoming an emblem of bygone reggae musicians left to suffer in obscurity.

01/10/2023

UNLOCKING THE DISTINCTIVE PROWESS OF CONGOLESE MUSICIANS COMPARED TO THEIR ZAMBIAN COUNTERPARTS

Zambian musicians, especially vocalists, undoubtedly possess a remarkable reservoir of talent within the African musical landscape.

Despite this, a significant proportion of Zambia's singers and instrumentalists have encountered formidable barriers when attempting to gain a foothold in the global music industry.

The path of self-taught musicians, while not inherently flawed, shares parallels with the journeys of celebrated artistes who have risen to illustrious stardom through their unaided endeavors.

Self-taught musicians invariably seek out experienced counterparts to bolster their musical prowess, thereby fostering opportunities for collaborative performance within a group setting.

Singers, in particular, must navigate a learning curve when it comes to showcasing their vocal talents in a public context, often through collaboration with accompanying bands.

In Zambia, the emergence of home studios has provided a nurturing ground for budding artistes. Historically, musicians and singers engaged in extensive rehearsals with bands to prepare for recording sessions.

This meticulous preparation was necessitated by the technological limitations of the era, where even a single error from a band member could necessitate restarting the entire process, incurring substantial costs.

Today, the advent of Digital Work Stations (DWS) software has revolutionised the landscape, affording musically gifted individuals with minimal formal training the ability to independently compose and record songs in under two hours, without the need for guitarists, drummers, or bass players.

While technological advancements have significantly streamlined recording and music production, they have not been without drawbacks.

The role of music production has become increasingly consolidated into the hands of a single individual—the Studio Engineer-Producer—potentially compromising the authenticity and originality of the music in favor of monotony.

Zambia has witnessed a notable convergence of musical styles among its popular singers, driven by the standardisation of production and beats under the guidance of a singular producer-sound engineer.

Additionally, the prevalence of beat bootlegging within studios has contributed to a homogenised, weakened contemporary music landscape, diminishing its competitiveness in terms of musicianship.

In contrast, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) fosters musicians who are, in essence, 'birthed,' nurtured, and refined within bands.

To achieve prominence as a singer in Congolese music, one must first accumulate experience by collaborating with established and respected bands or mastering a musical instrument.

In the DRC, each band boasts a distinct and unique sound, even within the broader genre, akin to a musical fingerprint. This diversity in instrumental playing styles adds to the versatility and uniqueness of Congolese music, inspiring healthy competition among musicians to craft distinctive arrangements.

Congolese musicians are adept showmen, investing considerable effort not only in their musical performances but also in stage choreography and sartorial presentation.

Lastly, the Congolese music scene distinguishes itself by its meticulous approach to recording. A significant portion of Congolese music production takes place within European studios, affording artistes the advantage of collaborating with top Congolese virtuoso guitarists and technically skilled studio engineers to refine their music.

The journey of musical improvement, as exemplified by the Congolese experience, comes at a cost.

Zambian musicians would do well to heed the lesson that artistry should not be cheapened or compromised, as music is a profoundly serious undertaking demanding the utmost dedication and craftsmanship.

01/10/2023

IRON SHARPENS IRON" JOSEPH HILL - CULTURE

Joseph hill's song "iron sharpens iron “holds deeper significance beyond its melodic allure, inviting us to delve into the profound wisdom of Rastafarian lyrical craftsmanship.

Understanding the lyrical tapestry woven by these musicians necessitates an exploration of their socio-religious context.

At its core, the composition contemplates the facet of criticism. The phrase "iron sharpens iron" serves as a vessel for a profound concept: the notion that individuals and collectives can transcend their current state through rigorous interplay and constructive critique.

This analogy likens the process to the sharpening of iron implements. Just as iron gains a keener edge when it grinds against another piece of iron, humanity can ascend, acquire knowledge, and refine its skills when immersed in intellectual and moral dialogues, discussions, or exchanges that challenge preconceptions and abilities.

This lyrical motif underscores the imperative of constructive criticism, fostering an environment of robust intellectual exchange and amicable competition.

In embracing this ethos, individuals and communities embark on a journey of personal and collective development, carving out a path towards greater enlightenment and growth. Rastafari Sila…

29/09/2023

29/09/2023

PRESENCE OF JAZZ IN ZAMBIA: THE SIGNIFICANCE OF FORMAL TRAINING


Within the jurisdiction of musical arts in Zambia, there exists a pressing need for the development of music genre classification and comprehension.

Despite its African origins, jazz often finds itself overshadowed by more popular dance music in the preferences of Zambian musicians and composers.

Unfortunately, Zambia lacks a robust jazz community and dedicated jazz educational institutions, impeding the growth of jazz skills and expertise in the region.

While exceptions like Afro Red, Uncle Rex, Guitarist Jones Kabangwe, and Ba Dave have diligently honed their talents, delivering impressive renditions of some jazz standards, the overall influence of jazz in Zambia remains rather confined.

Classic jazz heavily relies on improvisation, with musicians taking turns to solo within the framework of a song. Although some individuals possess innate musical talent and can progress in jazz without formal training, resources for self-study such as books, videos, and online courses can certainly aid in their development.

Listening to the jazz greats and collaborating with experienced musicians also provide valuable learning experiences. Dedication, practice, and a deep passion for jazz can lead to success, even in the absence of formal training.

However, formal music education can expedite the learning process, offer structure, and provide invaluable resources and mentorship, rendering it an enticing option for aspiring jazz musicians.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue formal jazz training depends on individual goals, available resources, and personal preferences.

Formal training empowers musicians to develop the technical skills essential for jazz, including mastering their instruments and honing improvisational abilities and technical proficiency.

Jazz theory represents another crucial facet of learning, as it equips musicians with the knowledge to comprehend and compose complex jazz compositions.

In other countries, musicians go to great lengths to enhance their jazz skills. In South Africa, for instance, the most esteemed musicians are jazz artistes, and it is rare to find a jazz musician in South Africa without formal training (tone deaf). Reading music, or tabs, is a fundamental requirement for a jazz musician, yet in Zambia, this is not commonly practiced; only a few Zambian musicians possess this skill.

Furthermore, a jazz musician must possess a keen ear for recognising intervals and harmonies, as this is pivotal for jazz improvisation and collaboration.

For those musicians aiming to elevate their skills through formal jazz training, numerous credentials and opportunities in performance and teaching positions await them.

Musicians can draw inspiration from the journey of Mathew Tembo, who has dedicated himself to enhancing his academic education in music. Today, Mathew stands as one of the most advanced music scholars in Zambia. His tertiary education in music has significantly elevated both his musical and scholarly pursuits, opening doors for him to work as a performer and academician anywhere in the world.

27/09/2023

SPECIALIZATION AND BEYOND: LEARNING FROM DRUMMER SAM MATAURE'S SUCCESS STORY

Last week, I ignited a vibrant discussion on this platform by making a resolute assertion: ‘’UHURU VIBES is not a mere relic of reggae music but a contemporary and highly proficient ensemble, adept at seamlessly collaborating with musicians from diverse backgrounds.
Given the tone of the English language, some may have misconstrued my statement, leading to vehement reactions – a natural part of democratic discourse. As democrats, we must acknowledge and respect differing viewpoints.

In this discourse, I intend to explore a facet of music often overlooked by many musicians – specialisation.

Music, akin to a language, thrives most genuinely when spoken as a mother tongue. Just as non-native speakers may master a foreign language's structure but may falter in accent and nuance, musicians can face similar challenges.

Consider this, one may excel as a Rhumba guitarist or drummer, yet replicating the authenticity and organic essence of a Congolese native can prove to be an arduous undertaking.
The intricacies of such musical genres are not merely notes and rhythms but also cultural heritage and tradition, aspects deeply ingrained in the native creators of the music.
This principle extends across all musical genres. Proficiency in playing jazz, for example, may encompass the ability to navigate through Bosanova or American Jazz. Nevertheless, for a non-native to encapsulate the fervor and authenticity of a Ceso Fonseca, Joao Donato, or other illustrious Bosanova virtuosos is a formidable task.
Sam Mataere, the esteemed drummer hailing from the SADC region and known for his association with the late Oliver Mutukudzi, exemplifies the value of specialisation. Sam's technical prowess lies predominantly in the realm of jazz drumming – a discipline he has mastered.

Those familiar with Zimbabwean music can readily discern the distinctions between Zambian and Zimbabwean instrumentalists. The key differential factor lies in music education. Zimbabwean musicians, rather than relying solely on innate talent, supplement their abilities with formal music education, rendering them among the most versatile and skilled musicians in the SADC region.

As Mono Mukudu, legendary Zimbabwean guitarist, producer, and former lead guitarist for Oliver M’tukudzi, succinctly puts it, "In Zimbabwe, securing employment as an instrumentalist is a demanding endeavor, as competition is fierce." In contrast, Zambian musicians often find themselves working on a pro bono basis.

Sam Mataure's versatility as a drummer, proficient in executing complex rhythmic patterns, stems from his strong foundation in jazz. This proficiency grants him the remarkable ability to seamlessly traverse various musical genres without encountering significant challenges.

His technical acumen shines through in his contributions to the recordings of Oliver Mutukudzi, Andy Brown, and Thomas Mafumo. Notably, he had the privilege of being the last drummer to perform alongside the celebrated Afro Jazz icon, Mama Miriam Makeba. Accompanying artistes of such eminence demands a profound understanding of the fundamental principles of music and a humble disposition.
Zambia boasts a reservoir of exceptionally talented instrumentalists who, with a dose of formal training, possess the potential to make substantial contributions not only to the Zambian music scene but also on a global scale.

Musicians lacking formal musical education can prove problematic, often resisting guidance and adopting a know-it-all attitude. This phenomenon accounts for the difficulties many Zambian instrumentalists encounter when venturing beyond their national borders, where competence and competition reign supreme.

25/09/2023

THE FLOCK.
Zambian's best reggae news and analysis blog...

25/09/2023

MASTER THE ART OF REGGAE DRUMMING: WHAT IT TAKES TO SHINE

One of the most frustrating aspects watching a reggae concert is encountering a drummer who lacks a fundamental understanding of how to effectively play reggae drums. A proficient reggae drummer should possess a deep comprehension of the signature timing and the ability to maintain the rhythmic beat of the song.

It is crucial for a reggae drummer to grasp why reggae relies on an offbeat count. Unfortunately, many drummers overlook this critical aspect when playing, which can detrimentally impact the song without them even realizing it.

It is advisable for every band or performer to cultivate the practice of reviewing their performances after a show. This practice is essential because it enables the band to gain insight into how they sound live and identify any errors that need improvement. An excellent reggae drummer should exhibit technical prowess, an acute ability to detect "channel noise," sensitivity, and a knack for avoiding unnecessary noise while effectively using crash cymbals.

In Zambia, the same principle applies to guitarists. It is not uncommon to hear both rhythm and lead guitarists producing similar sounds. A proficient reggae guitarist should create percussive riffs and steer clear of solos confined to a single scale, such as the pentatonic scale.
To excel as a reggae lead guitarist, one should explore scales beyond one scale repertoire. Great reggae guitarists draw inspiration from genres like blues, bosanova, and other Caribbean sounds, which contributes to their distinctive and unique sound.

24/09/2023

The reason why Rap as failed to pe*****te Africa is become it's not danceable.

10/09/2023

ORIGINAL WAILERING ROOTS

10/09/2023

INTERDEPENDENT IS WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS

"The world requires interdependence to thrive. Too often, we encounter negative sentiments and tensions, particularly between white and black individuals within the music industry.

There are, indeed, individuals with malicious intentions who have siphoned off the hard-earned energy and careers of musicians.

This troubling trend extends to our political systems, where those who champion democracy and capitalism often prioritize their own future and investments over the well-being of others.

Turning our attention to the realm of Reggae, there are valuable lessons that both sides of this divide can glean from our tumultuous history. In the performing arts, Africans have consistently showcased remarkable artistic excellence, possessing an undeniable rhythmic gift. However, talent alone is insufficient in the fiercely competitive world of music.

On the other hand, our white counterparts have honed their skills in trade and business development over the years, recognizing the pivotal role these play in effective business administration.

The ROTOM Reggae Festival management team serves as a shining example of how two groups, despite their complex love-hate relationship, can come together and collaborate as one cohesive unit.

Reggae Music originates from Jamaica, a nation with less than 2.5 million inhabitants and modest income levels.

Jamaicans often struggle to support their musicians due to challenging economic conditions, prompting many artists to market their music abroad in places like Europe and the USA, where economic support is more readily available.

It is high time that the world acknowledges our interdependence. Those who persist in wielding their financial power to suppress others must recognize that this era has come to an end.

20/08/2023

20/08/2023

THE BATTLE BETWEEN RECORD LABELS' DEMISE AND THE RISE OF DIGITAL HOME RECORDING
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‘’The Decline of Music Production Standards: A Global Challenge Amplified by Digital Technology’’

The decline in music production standards is a challenge that spans the globe, and it has been further intensified by the rise of digital technology, which has fundamentally transformed the process of creating music in recording studios. While there have been positive changes brought about by digital music production, such as the newfound ease for artists to enter a studio and record music without assembling a full band of musicians, this convenience also requires time for rehearsal and preparation before stepping into the recording booth.

Digital recording has granted artists a certain degree of independence, yet this independence comes at a cost.

The current music emerging from these digital production environments often lacks the quality, authenticity, and musicianship that are prominently showcased when music is performed live in a studio setting.

We do acknowledge that cost considerations play a role in this shift, with artists seizing the opportunity to lower music production expenses. In this era of digital music production, all aspects of the production process are often overseen by a single individual, typically the sound engineer-producer.

Being an independent musician is undoubtedly a positive pursuit; however, it's important to recognize that this path is far from easy. Record companies possess strong connections through channels intertwined with influential industry figures who exert significant control over the music scene.

In Zambia, we're home to numerous talented reggae and dancehall artiste who possess the potential for global success. However, for these emerging talents to truly break into the international scene, they require the guidance of a music guru running the industry who can provide resources and connections.

The European and American music landscapes serve as the primary battlegrounds for reggae artistes to establish their presence. Whether hailing from Zambia or any other corner of the world, aspiring reggae artists must aim to make their mark on these continents.
Events like ROTOTOM in Italy, Reggae Sundance, Uppsala, Reggae on the River, and even non-reggae gatherings such as the Montréal Jazz Festival represent platforms where reggae artistes must strive to showcase their talents.

Achieving a breakthrough requires not only musical prowess but also a robust management team to secure opportunities on these stages.

Artistes lacking the insight to navigate this intricate industry landscape may encounter challenges, unless they're fortunate enough to have the support of a recording company.

Navigating the music business is a complex endeavor; artistes must be acutely aware that recording companies wield significant influence over the industry and demand high quality, as they possess a deep understanding of the market.

In the past, artistes had to undergo rigorous assessment processes to secure recording opportunities, with only those demonstrating exceptional artistic abilities being granted recording deals.

Today, the landscape has shifted; artistes can record their music with friends, and it can find its way onto the airwaves, irrespective of the production quality.

17/08/2023

AUTHENTIC ART OF PLAYING REGGAE

Have you ever wondered why certain guitarists consistently sound monotonous when soloing? The answer lies in their limited grasp of various chord scales. A guitarist who lacks an understanding of chord scale modes restricts their ability to proficiently perform guitar solos.

Achieving mastery in lead guitar demands a guitarist's commitment to learning guitar scales. In the context of aspiring reggae musicians in Zambia, it becomes evident that many of our local reggae players have yet to explore the technical nuances necessary to play reggae with true authority. To excel as a reggae musician, one must dedicate time to authentically mastering the art of playing reggae.

It can be disheartening to attend a reggae show and observe how some Zambian bands fall significantly below the expected standard in their reggae performance. Zambian reggae players should pay particular attention to the techniques employed by professional reggae players, including their chord voicing.

A crucial foundation of reggae music rests upon the rhythm section of drums and bass. This rhythm duo plays a pivotal role in shaping the essence of reggae music.

Unlike rock music, where the focus often centers on the lead guitar, reggae's core relies heavily on the drummer and bassist, signifying that the bass player must produce a clean and resonant sound.

This requirement calls upon reggae bass players to precisely locate the optimal spots for strumming the back guitar strings, an aspect that seems to be overlooked by many bass players in Zambia.

Both the reggae bass player and the drummer must demonstrate accuracy and precision. Since reggae is known for its offbeat rhythm, drummers must fully comprehend this principle to perform skillfully.

As we approach the summer season, several exciting reggae programs are lined up. Conscious Sounds is once again bringing Senzo to grace the Peter Tosh Show at YODC in Lusaka.

Additionally, the Shakarongo lead summer reggae festival is set to take place. While we commend the efforts of the promoters, we express concern regarding Senzo's current state.

The ongoing advertisement raises questions about his well-being due to underlying health issues. This leads us to wonder why the promoters did not select an artist in robust health condition for the event.

10/08/2023

ANYONE HERE SELLING A GUITAR COMBO?

08/08/2023

Name one song by Peter Bob

06/08/2023

BANTU ROOTS: Spreading the Rhythms of African Unity through Reggae
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Bantu Roots is a captivating Zambian root reggae band that has been making waves for over two decades.

Formed in Lusaka, this talented group of musicians has gained widespread recognition for their soulful melodies, thought-provoking lyrics, and unwavering commitment to pan-Africanism, fueled by their deep-rooted Rastafarian beliefs.

Spearheading this harmonious journey is Khazayo Chisi, a visionary leader, skillful guitarist, and prolific songwriter.

Throughout their musical journey, Bantu Roots has beautifully blended the essence of reggae music with the rich tapestry of African culture, weaving together a melodic thread that resonates with audiences far and wide. Their songs are a testament to their passionate dedication to promoting unity, understanding, and the celebration of African heritage.

Bantu Roots has left an indelible mark on the Zambian music scene with two critically acclaimed studio albums. Their debut offering, "Spiritual War" released in 1998, was a revelation, solidifying their place as pioneers of Zambian reggae.

The band's second studio album, "Mosi O tunya," released in 2011, further amplified their creative prowess, captivating listeners with its spiritually uplifting tunes.

The impact of Bantu Roots' music extends beyond mere accolades. In 1998, the band made history by becoming the first Zambian reggae outfit to be honored with the prestigious Ngoma Award for Best Band in Zambia. This recognition not only cemented their position as a leading force in the Zambian music industry but also showcased their unwavering commitment to their craft and their ability to touch the hearts of fans across the nation.

Known for their consistency and dedication, Bantu Roots continues to shine as one of the most revered reggae bands in Zambia. Their presence at various reggae festivals is a testament to their enduring popularity and their ability to captivate audiences with their enchanting performances.

The current lineup of Bantu Roots boasts a collection of exceptionally talented musicians, each contributing their unique flair to the band's distinctive sound.

1:Ruben Dubbing Squad, with his magnetic baselines, sets the rhythm in motion.

2:Sokosolo, on lead guitar and backing vocals, adds layers of depth and emotion to the melodies.

3: James Sticks, a master of the drums, keeps the beats flowing effortlessly.

4:Jim Jeys, on keyboards, infuses the music with an enchanting ambiance.
5: Lastly, Kuzwayo Chisi, with his soulful vocals and guitar skills, mesmerizes listeners with every note.

As they venture into the future, Bantu Roots is tirelessly working on their third studio album, which is eagerly awaited by their dedicated fan base.

The band's commitment to evolving their sound while staying true to their roots promises to deliver yet another unforgettable musical experience.

Bantu Roots is not just a band; it is a musical movement that seeks to inspire, uplift, and unite people through the power of reggae music and the spirit of Africa.

With their passion, talent, and pan-African vision, Bantu Roots continues to touch the souls of many, ensuring that their legacy lives on in the hearts of generations to come

06/08/2023

Greetings in the name of the most high Rastafari

06/08/2023

Greetings in the name the most high Jah Rastafari