Amanaz

Zambian Psychedelic Rock Band

Amanaz was a rock band from Zambia, known for being part of the Zamrock scene, a unique blend of traditional African music with psychedelic rock and funk that emerged in the 1970s. The band was formed in 1973 and is notable for their 1975 album "Africa," which has since become a cult classic. The members of Amanaz were Keith Kabwe (lead vocals), Isaac Mpofu (guitar), John Kanyepa (guitar), Jerry Mausala (bass guitar), and Watson Lungu (drums). Their music was characterized by heavy, fuzzy guitar riffs and rhythms that drew from the rich musical traditions of Zambia. Despite facing limited resources and political turmoil within their country, Amanaz managed to create a sound that resonated beyond their borders, influencing the development of rock music on the African continent. The legacy of "Africa" has grown over the years, with reissues bringing renewed attention to Amanaz's contribution to the Zamrock genre.