Zone Fam announces comeback after 12-year hiatus

Zambian hip-hop collective Zone Fam has announced a comeback after a 12-year hiatus. The group, which includes core members Jay Rox, Tim (formerly Thugga), Yung Verbal, and Sam Sakala (formerly Dope G), is releasing a new single titled ‘One Fight’ accompanied by a music video directed by Lanzee Copper.

Formed in Lusaka in 2009, the group gained regional prominence by blending traditional ‘Zed beats’ with Western hip-hop and multilingual lyrics. They previously achieved significant success, including winning Best Group at the Channel O Music Video Awards for their hit ‘Contolola’.

During their hiatus, the members pursued successful independent careers: Jay Rox as a music entrepreneur and producer, Sam Sakala in acting and as a Mandela Washington Fellow, Yung Verbal in media broadcasting, and Tim as a Christian hip-hop artist. The group’s new work is described as a reflection of their personal growth and faith.