Sampa The Great says she hopes the audience is ready for heavy Zamrock sonics and exceptional hip-hop. Photo / Travys Owen
Sampa The Great says she hopes the audience is ready for heavy Zamrock sonics and exceptional hip-hop. Photo / Travys Owen
Make way for Sampa the Great, headed this way for Womad 2023. We catch up with the artist described as one of the most sought-after voices in contemporary rap for 10 questions.
Tell us who you are and where you’re from.
My name is Sampa Tembo. I’m an artist fromZambia.
Describe your sound in one sentence.
Afro-soul spoken word - actualised in the language of Zamrock.
Lots of energy - I hope they are ready. Heavy Zamrock sonics and exceptional hip-hop.
5. What is your top festival tip/hack?
Know your stage and the acts that follow you beforehand. You know what element you can bring to the stage, you know what energy you’re adding to the table when you know the acts around you.
Being able to love what I do and sustain myself and my family.
What does keeping healthy as a musician mean to you?
Mentally healthy and happy - physically fit and strong.
What tips would you give upcoming musicians who want to perform at music festivals?
Know your set and rehearse it to a tee so most of your time spent on set is enjoying and connecting with your audience. No need for nerves!
Sampa The Great. Photo / Travys Owen
If you weren’t performing, what would your dream summer vacation be?
An island in Aotearoa with a waterfall would be amazing!
Other artists set to play Womad 2023 include Afghan singer Elaha Soroor and eclectic London-based ensemble Kefaya, Senegalese singer Youssou N’Dour and local talents Fly My Pretties and Rubi Du, Avantdale Bowling Club and Auckland-based Nigerian hip-hop artist Mazbou Q. Womad is at Bowl of Brooklands and Brooklands Park, New Plymouth, March 17-19.
