Zambian songstress and Afrobeats trailblazer Towela Kaira recently sat down with DJ Edu on BBC’s This Is Africa, in a powerful episode spotlighting Zambia’s music scene titled Zambia Ku Chalo. Her segment wrapped up a vibrant three-part series that featured top stars including Yo Maps, Chef 187, Pompi, and Roberto.
Towela, who is the youngest sibling to Zambian rap royalty Macky2 and Chef 187, shared her journey from singing in bands and karaoke bars to becoming one of Zambia’s most iconic female artists. She spoke openly about motherhood, music, vulnerability, and what it means to live boldly and authentically in a conservative society.
“I’d rather fail as an artist than as a parent,” she said candidly. “Ultimately, you’re responsible for creating a functional adult. That’s a bigger responsibility than anything else.”
Towela’s breakthrough came in 2020 through Mr. Eazi’s emPawa Africa initiative. Since then, she’s given fans timeless hits like “Delay” (featuring her brothers), “Gold,” “Maria,” and her recent dance-heavy single “Sticky.”
When asked about pushing the envelope in Zambia’s traditional music space, Towela didn’t hold back.
“I cross the line with what they’re comfortable with—but not enough to be a problem. But I will be… watch out!” she laughed.
Towela also opened up about growing up without parents and how that hardship forged the resilience she, Macky 2, and Chef 187 are known for. Despite losing their parents early in life, the trio leaned on each other and built a legacy of creativity, independence, and excellence.
“You learn to rely on yourself, and you learn to believe in yourself because you are your first cheerleader,” she said.
Her emotional honesty was especially moving as she described how her past shaped the kind of parent she wants to be.
“Now instead of using [pain] negatively, I just pour love into other people. I’m very loving and present with my own child because, you know, anything can happen.”
From fierce lyrics to tender motherhood moments, Towela proves that she’s not just a pop icon — she’s a voice of her generation. And she’s only getting started.