Zambian-born, Melbourne-based artist Sampa The Great has achieved the highest accolades in Australian music, being the only performer to have won the Australian Music Prize twice, and nabbing three ARIA awards for her debut album ‘The Return’. Having garnered praise from every major music site globally, and landed a spot on Michelle Obama’s playlist, it’s safe to say she’s been on everyone’s radar — her recent show-stopping performance at Coachella has made sure of that.
The poet is on her way back to Aus for some live shows here between Sydney’s VIVID Festival and Melbourne’s RISING program, and is marking her return with “Lane”, another compelling offering made in collaboration with Florida rap heavyweight Denzel Curry. The single has arrived with stunning visuals, directed by Rochelle Rhembard and Imraan Christian, and a mesmerising spoken-word piece titled “Origin”. We are also first introduced to Eve, the persona and blueprint of Sampa’s “highest version of self”.
“Lane” plays out over a ticking trap beat, with layered vocals and hard-hitting bars from Denzel. It’s cinematic even sans visuals, and reminds you of the scope of power Sampa The Great wields with her craft. Check it out here:
Header image: Travys Owen