20 Successful Zambian Women in UK – Katongo Temba

Katongo Temba is a true gem – Zambian born, British bred, singer and songwriter. With musical influences ranging from Lucky Dube to J Martins, Millie Jackson to Michael Jackson, and Aretha Franklin to Mariah Carey, it’s no wonder the sultry singer manages to blend Afropop, R&B and Soul effortlessly.

Katongo started singing when she was a toddler and though a shy child, she enjoyed being on stage. As such she jumped at opportunities to perform at school plays and talent shows. Aged just 11, Katongo penned her first song and has been honing her writing skills ever since.

Now a more refined lyricist and self taught guitarist, Katongo’s musical expression is soulful, yet fun and free. In 2009, shortly after graduating from university, Katongo began to pursue her music career full time and before the end of the year she had been highlighted as one of the potential winners of The People’s Music Awards. The Award’s judging panel stated that Katongo’s “vocals definitely shine through” and that “she has a distinctive sound that reverberates across several decades of soul and funk.”

Since that time, the young songstress has had even more success, with her musical recordings and performances garnering praise and attention from her peers, music management teams and independent music labels, both in the UK and USA.

This year alone she has worked with producers such as Anthony Galatis (Kim Wilde) and Richard Bignell (Jamiroquai). Katongo has also recently signed with a music management company to further develop and establish her career.

Aside from her music, Katongo enjoys doing charity work. When crowned 2nd princess in the ‘Miss African Spirit’ beauty pageant 2010, Katongo used the pageant platform to align herself with the charity Africans United Against Child Abuse (AFRUCA). Recognized as a supporter of the charity, Katongo, alongside other speakers, was invited to the House of Commons to give a speech. Since then she has been eager to do more charitable works alongside her musical career.

With the recent release of her EP, this year looks to be one of great success for the songstress. Her official EP “My Way” is available on ITunes, Amazon and can also be purchased directly from her website www.katongomuisc.com

KATONGO TEMBA’S LINKS
www.vibedeck.com/katongo

www.katongomusic.com

 

20 Successful Zambian Women in UK is an Initiative of Rosemary Chileshe