Music for...
An Afro Future
by Sampa The Great
‘Music for...’ is one of two Opera House Spotify playlist series where we ask visiting guests to curate playlists based on a theme of their choice: music for a particular moment, place or feeling.
Imagining a world of creativity and culture beyond the confines of colonialism, game-changing MC and poet Sampa The Great has put together a playlist for An Afro Future ahead of her exclusive performance at Vivid LIVE 2021.
▷ Summertime – Angèlique Kidjo
“This take of Summertime brings the song closer to home for me.
The warm tones and beautiful harmonies from Angelique are out of this world. When I close my eyes, wherever I am in the world, I’m transported back home.”
▷ America - Knaan ft Mos Def, Chali 2na
“It’s the use of language and culture for me! Hip hop has travelled the globe and its influence has been immense.
To be able to express it in your own language and translate the culture in a beautiful way like this is mesmerising. I love this song and of course it’s lyrics are important!”
▷ Gold Fronts - Fousheè ft Lil Wayne
“This a beautiful discovery for me and artist named Fousheè. Not only does she sound amazing and have ethereal vocals, her songwriting is extremely dope!
Loved the King Wayne’s flow in this one as well.”
▷ Inama - Diamond Platnumz ft Fally Ipupa
“If you know me, you know my love of Congolese Rumba. Half the time I’m home I spend dancing. Congolese Rumba, Amapiano, Kalindula or Afrobeat.
Been listening to Diamond recently and this song with the Legendary Fally Ipupa needed to make an appearance on this playlist.”
▷ Living in the Past - Witch
“Witch paved the way for Zambian musicians to do something different and exciting with psychedelic rock. They are Zambian musical legends and I got to have Mr. Jagari Chanda in my next album.”
▷ Don’t Give Up - Sampa The Great
“This me lol.
One of the more vulnerable songs from my last album ‘The Return’. It’s definitely an inspiration and encouragement in times when I need it. I hope it encourages anyone listening to this playlist!”
▷ Autumn Leaves – Damian Marley
“Within the hip hop genre, I have a lot of musical inspirations that I know more for their spiritual influence on my music and my journey. Damian Marley is definitely one of them!”
▷ The Divine - Mwanjè
“This beam of light named Mwanje Tembo just happens to be my little sister as well.
Always inspired by her constant growth and I get to see a piece of me when I listen to her.”
▷ Skeleton Move - Master KG
“This is one of my home away from home songs!
‘No matter where you go, remember the road that will lead you home.’”