tunesday – sampa the great interview

Ever wrapped your earholes around the sounds of Zambia-born, Sydney-based artist Sampa the Great? If the answer is no, you’re missing out.

The talented dame makes hip-hop tracks inspired by the likes of Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu and Kendrick Lamar, no less (in fact, she even opened for Kendrick on a recent Aussie tour) – have a read of our chat with the poet and songwriter below, then hit play and prepare to get your toes tap-a-tapping.

FIRST TIMES, LAST TIMES WITH SAMPA THE GREAT

First time you heard your song on the radio? Sheesh! I don’t remember which song it was, but it was in a taxi on a ride home from a show. Epic!

Last time you ate something decadent? Probably last night – my sister cooked dinner and the cheesecake that followed was heaven made!

First time you knew you were on the path labelled ‘music’? When I first started writing songs, around age 10. I saw the path, but it was filled with doubts and the unknown.

Last time you gave yourself a pat on the back? Three days ago, before I hopped on a flight back to Australia, after my UK show run.

First time you messed something up on stage? The real question is, when will be the last time! Probably the first show I did in Australia at a weekly jazz and hip-hop freestyle event.

Last time you bought an album? The last album I bought was To Pimp a Butterfly by Kendrick Lamar.

First time you met one of your idols? I met Angélique Kidjo at Womadelaide. I constructed two sentences to bestow upon her, but everything else after that was smiles and awe!

Last time you learned a new skill? I’m currently in the process of learning how to paint.

First time you discovered that your music had made a difference in someone’s life? My first time in Darwin, after a show. A young man came up to me and started crying. It was one of the most surreal moments of my life.

Sampa the Great’s new EP, HERoes Act 2, is out now via Red Bull Sound Select. Pop over this way to check out her Aussie tour dates.