By 
Zambian artiste, James “Chamanyazi” Ngoma, has openly criticized the organizers of the annual Mosi Day of Thunder music festival for consistently sidelining Kalindula musicians, calling the repeated exclusion a disservice to Zambia’s musical heritage.
In an open letter dated May 5, 2025, addressed to Zambian Breweries and R&G Events—the key sponsors and organizers of the event—Chamanyazi questioned why Kalindula, a genre deeply rooted in Zambian tradition, is repeatedly left out of the festival’s lineup.
“Why is it that Kalindula artistes are left out of the Mosi Day of Thunder every year?” he asked, adding that the genre has long been an integral part of Zambian life and culture, as well as a valuable partner in promoting local products.
While acknowledging that culture is dynamic and evolving, Chamanyazi stressed that not everything traditional is outdated or irrelevant.
He pointed out that the event draws a diverse audience, including older generations with varied musical tastes.
“I am aware that it is part of Zambian culture to regard Kalindula and other local music genres that have been around for some time as outdated,” he wrote.
“However, these genres still have loyal followings, and the musicians who perform them deserve recognition and the opportunity to earn a living.”
Chamanyazi also noted that many Kalindula artists regularly promote Zambian Breweries’ products during their performances in bars and nightclubs, providing free brand visibility while entertaining patrons.
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“Bands like Amayenge, Mutende Cultural Ensemble, Potiano Kaiche, Glorias Band, Oliya Band, Masasu Band, JR Mulemena Boys, Moses Sakala, Green Label, and Airpower Band, as well as numerous emerging live bands, promote your products in their own way,” he said.
“They too deserve to be considered for such a prestigious concert.”
He further acknowledged that the Mosi Day of Thunder, held annually in Livingstone, has played a significant role in elevating the Dunka/Zed Beat genre, especially through top-notch live performances, fashion showcases, and lucrative performance fees for featured artists.
“Thank you very much for sponsoring and hosting one of the most successful musical events of the decade,” he concluded. “However, the event should represent the full spectrum of Zambian music.”
Chamanyazi’s appeal may have reignited the conversation about inclusivity in major music events and the importance of preserving and promoting traditional music genres in the face of rapid modernisation.
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