MUSIC

Theresa's music is a blend of traditional and modern sounds with preferences in traditional rythms and ancestry chants. Her instruments are the acoustic guitar and percussion, but her main instrument is her unique voice. Her singing is in native to preserve African languages. She prides in expressing her voice passionately in her mother tongue more than English. She is a born artist and natural performer addicted to live music and improvisation.

"Onani," is a Chewa poetic song with Theresa's two children Thembinkhosi and Vusithando backing vocals, a poignant creation born from the depths of personal anguish, crafted by the deft hands and visionary eye of Zel Mathew, a luminary from Zambia. A testament to resilience in the face of adversity, this opus transcends mere melodies, delving into the very essence of human experience.

With every note and lyric, it unveils a tapestry woven with threads of hardship, betrayal, and the insidious grasp of corruption that festers within society's marrow. Through the soul-stirring verses, a narrative unfolds, echoing the artist's harrowing journey marred by exploitation and identity theft, a fate that shackled his artistic expression and eclipsed his true essence.

Yet, amidst the darkness, there emerges a beacon of defiance—a rallying cry against the forces of injustice and malice that seek to suffocate individuality and stifle creativity. "Onani" beckons, a fervent plea to cast aside apathy and heed the call to action, to confront the shadows that loom large over the human spirit.

In this evocative hymn, each refrain resonates with the collective echoes of countless souls, each grappling with their own trials of theft and manipulation, whether in the realm of artistry or the corridors of power. It serves as a sanctified vessel, carrying forth the prayers of the oppressed and the downtrodden, seeking solace in divine intervention.

"Onani"—a symphony of resilience, a testament to the indomitable spirit that refuses to be silenced. With every verse, it implores us to gaze beyond the superficial veneer of our existence and confront the stark realities that besiege us. So let us heed its call, let us listen, let us look, and let us stand united against the forces that seek to dim the light of our individuality.

Big thank you to Lee Senford, Yoraya Isreal, Zel Mathew, Vusi, Thembi, Dominic Sitamu and the Lusaka Play House team, who made the video possible !

In November 2018, Conservation Music collaborated with some of Lusaka's most notable artists to produce this music video to draw attention local environmental issues such as tree felling, charcoal burning and water management. The song is written by Theresa Ng'ambi. Participating artists include James Sakala, Pompi, Shops Mutambo, Maureen Lilanda and Theresa Ng’ambi.

This performance took place at Institut Français Lubumbashi in 2022 where Theresa collaborated with the Congolese multi disciplined folk artist Willy Kanyange Ilumbo and DJ Boss SAS.

Theresa Ng'ambi's "Save the Earth" is not just a song; it is a heartfelt and compelling appeal to protect our planet and embrace sustainable practices. It serves as a rallying cry for individuals and communities to come together and take proactive steps in safeguarding the environment. In a world yearning for change, this song offers a ray of hope, reminding us that by working together, we can make a difference and ensure a thriving Earth for every daughter and son. This talk was given at a TEDx event in Lusaka in 2023 using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community.

Theresa Ng'ambi and her backing vocalist after the performance in 2023.

Nalakwanji  (What Is My Wrong) is a haunting and deeply emotional song that lays bare the anguish within African families torn apart by the specter of witchcraft. It delves into the pain of baseless accusations, where trust is shattered and fear reigns supreme. Witchcraft is the silent destroyer, breeding suspicion, grudges, unforgiveness, envy, jealousy, and tragic, undeserved deaths. Innocent lives are cloaked in the wrong robes, victims of deceitful witch hunters who sow discord and despair. Nalakwanji is a desperate plea to sit together, confront our fears, and seek the path to unity, love, and the healing of our fractured families. Theresa Ng’ambi cries out to the witch, begging for recognition of their innocence and the restoration of peace. “A single bracelet does not jingle.”

For this song Theresa worked together with Daynjr and Kingsstonemedia in 2020. Gaba Gaba is a love song, a desire to be loved unconditionally. The song is expressed in Afrobeat.

TO LISTEN TO MORE MUSIC PLEASE VISIT SPOTIFY AND MUSIC IN AFRICA: