Brian Chilala

Zambia's music industry "rebel" Brian Chilala is back with his fourth album called Mwalaba. Known for fusing rock, reggae and kalindula beats, Brian's latest album is bound to keep you dancing and wanting more.

Brian's interest in music started at the tender age of 10, and led to his experimentation with various instruments such as the bass guitar and drums. He frequently attended rehearsals of the Banda Brother's (a hard-rock outfit later named Powerhouse) and on occasion filled in for the drummer when he was not available. In 1976, just 13 years old, Brian became a member of The Powerhouse, where he met the then upcoming artists who assisted in his growth and development as a musician.

Influenced by Paul Ngozi, Brian left Powerhouse and joined Junior Ngozi Family. Years of being Paul Ngozi's protégé gave Brian the skills and confidence he needed. Convinced he had what it takes to be a leader of a band, Brian formed a reggae group called Youth Inspiration four years later.

In 1989, newly wed with ambition running through his veins Brian broke with Youth Inspiration and joined Amayenge as their tour manager. However, in 1993 his passion for reggae took Brian to Burning Youth, where he stayed for a year. Prompted by Chris Chali's challenge to organize and coordinate Amayenge's U.S.A. tour, Brian returned to Amayenge.

1997 saw Brian embark on his solo career as well as the formation of his backup band called Ngoma Zasu. —Courtesy Calabash Music