WITCH

WITCH (We Intend To Cause Havoc) are the legendary pioneers of Zamrock, the explosive fusion of psych rock, funk, and traditional Zambian rhythms that defined Zambia’s 1970s musical renaissance. Formed in the country’s post-independence cultural boom, WITCH quickly became Zambia’s most popular band, led by magnetic frontman Emmanuel “Jagari” Chanda, whose electrifying presence drew comparisons to Jagger himself. As Zambia’s economy declined in the late 1970s — and with curfews, the rise of disco, and DJs reshaping nightlife — WITCH, like many Zamrock groups, were pushed into daytime shows and gradually slipped from the spotlight. Jagari stepped away to become a teacher, while the band continued under the leadership of Patrick Mwondela, pivoting from rock into disco to meet the demands of the market. Later, with guitarist Chris Mbewe at the helm, WITCH evolved once more, embracing Kalindula and producing enduring hits such as Janet and Nazingwa. Decades later, a global resurgence of interest in Zamrock led to the reissue of WITCH’s catalogue and renewed international attention. In 2012, Jagari was invited to perform in the US, sparking the band’s rebirth. By 2013, he had reunited with longtime bandmate Patrick Mwondela, joining forces with a new international lineup featuring musicians from Zambia, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, and the UK. Together, they began touring worldwide, reintroducing WITCH’s electrifying sound to new generations Presented by Peter Woolf Barnato with The Holland Project at Cypress (761 S. Virginia Street)