Description
#variousartists #vinyl #vinylrecords
Strut Records kicks off a new series spotlighting emerging DJs with “A Dancefloor in Ndola,” curated by the East African dance music queen, Kampire. Known for her electrifying sets at Uganda’s Nyege Nyege Festival and international stages, Kampire is the perfect ambassador to launch this series, showcasing a collection of 13 tracks that span Congolese rumba, South African bubblegum, Zambian kalindula, and more.
Kampire Bahana, born in Kenya, raised in Zambia, and based in Uganda, has become a symbol of the new wave of East and Central African DJs. Her dynamic performances and impeccable track selections have earned her a global following. This compilation draws inspiration from her upbringing in Ndola, a city in Zambia’s copper mining region, and the rich musical heritage she inherited from her father’s record collection. As Kampire recalls, “At 17, I didn’t pick up on my Dad’s music but now I love and collect those records. I’m constantly referencing them in my music sets today.”
“A Dancefloor in Ndola” is a 73-minute journey through the vibrant musical landscapes of East and Southern Africa. The compilation opens with the melodious Zairian soukous of Princess Aya Shara and closes with the rare Zambian grooves of Bwaluka Founders Band. Each track is a testament to Kampire’s deep appreciation for regional sounds and her skill in weaving them into contemporary dance sets.
One of the standout features of this compilation is its focus on historic tracks by African women from the ’80s. Kampire’s own edit of Di Groovy Girls and the energetic beats of Tshala Muana are just a few examples of the powerful female voices included. Congolese singer Lady Isa’s “Djambo” and Princesse Mansia M’Bila’s “Ngoma Mansia” further highlight the significant contributions of women to African music.
The compilation also features fruity South African bubblegum tracks from African House Party Project and V-Mash, blending seamlessly with the effervescent rhythms of M.D. Shirinda & Gaza Sisters’ “Mabazi.” The giddy guitar lines of Zaire All Stars & Nene Tchakou add an extra layer of vibrancy to this eclectic mix, ensuring that each track offers something unique and dance-worthy.
“A Dancefloor in Ndola” is not just a collection of songs but a celebration of African musical heritage. Kampire’s curation brings to light lesser-known anthems that are bound to resonate with audiences worldwide. This compilation is set to ignite dance floors at festivals and BBQs alike throughout the summer of 2024.
With “A Dancefloor in Ndola,” Strut Records and Kampire have created a compilation that is both educational and immensely enjoyable. It stands as a testament to the rich musical tapestry of East and Southern Africa and showcases Kampire’s exceptional talent and deep-rooted passion for her craft. This release is sure to cement her status as a leading figure in the global DJ community.
