Smokey Haangala

Edwin "Smokey" Haangala (January 16, 1950 - August 16th 1988) was a Zambian vocalist, multi instrumentalist, songwriter and author. Born in Zambia'a Southern province, to an educator father, Haangala was exposed to music at a young age and learned to play the guitar while in primary school. He briefly trained to become a Catholic priest before moving on to finish secondary school and attend the University of Zambia. While in university he played in bands made up of fellow students and it was there he began calling himself Smokey in reference to American singer Smokey Robinson.

After graduating from university in 1971, he briefly became a civil servant, and later, a writer at Times of Zambia newspaper and then an editor at The Daily Mail in Lusaka. Throughout this period, he was active in music, playing in a band he formed named the X-rays. In the mid 1970's, he recorded several singles which drew the interest of the Teal subsidiary in Lusaka who proposed the production of a full album. [m1543140], released in 1977 was his first album and brought him to national prominence as an artist. Haangala performed most of the parts in the album with the occasional addition of his brother Swithin Haangala and fellow musician Happy Mulenga.

Following the release of Aunka Ma Kwatcha, Haangala eventually quit his newspaper job to focus on music, a bold choice in the uncertain economic times of the late 1970's and early 1980's. In 1980, Haangala would release as second album, [r7388340], and numerous additional single releases throughout the 1980's.

Haangala was known for his use of an early drum machine, an accordion as well as guitar and other instruments. His music is sung in a multitude of local languages including English, Lozi, Bemba, Tonga and Nyanja. His songs explored a wide range of subjects and characters. His early music is often characterized as part of the genre of Zamrock.

Smokey Haangala died on August 16th 1988.

Data provided by Discogs