Hip hop group Urban Chaos

Urban Chaos was founded in 2009 by childhood friends Mwamba Mulenga aka (32 Karat) and Terrence Makondo (Swayvy) in their first year at the University of Zambia.  Joined later in that year by Mass Communications student Ben B (real name Benson Witika), the trio started off making tracks off basic equipment in their room.  Within no time at all, the group began to establish a buzz around campus as being the most legit hip-hop act around.  The roster was completed in 2011 with the additionof J-pryd, and now Urban Chaos seek to solidify their place as hip-hop’s new wonder boys.

32Karat

In addition to being the group’s main beat-maker, 32 Karat brings a wealth of experience and freshness to Urban Chaos’ sound.  Arguably one of Zambia’s best freestylers (as evidenced by his winning K2million courtesy of MTN at the last Cypher), Mwamba is a gifted lyricist with a natural knack for punchlining and creative wordplay.  3 is also a talented footballer who once did a stint with Cardiff FCs youth academy in Wales, where he spent part of his childhood.

Ben B

Ben B has always had a passion for entertainment and is probably the most versatile of the group.  He combines the ability to sing in different styles with a very convincing rap delivery.  He also doubles as a presenter on UNZA Radio.  A true linguist, Ben’s verses inspire and entertain even the most sceptical of listeners.  Ben sees himself shining bright in Africa in the very near future as he really appreciates all music coming from the continent.

J-Pryd

Born in Kitwe but raised in Foxdale Estates Lusaka, Pride Michael Phiri is the Urban Chaos lyrical genius.  The soft-spoken Information Systems student counts Lupe Fiasco as his major influence.  Devoutly Catholic, J-Pryd listens to a lot Christian music; Lecrae and Tedashii in particular.  J-Pryd is easily the most poetic of the group, often seasoning Nsenga into his smooth Nyanja delivery.  Much has been said in underground circles about his potential to become the next huge emcee in Zed, and he relishes the chance to impress.

Swayvy

Swayvy contributes a distinctively unique rap style developed through years of carefully studying the classic hip-hop artists.  Swayvy can also boast of his very credible skills as a beat maker, having done the lions share of the production on early Urban Chaos projects, as well as providing the beat for the soon to be released banger “Mfumu” which includes a Ruff Kid sample.  Swayvy cites Lil’ Wayne as a major influence, inasmuch as he tries not to sound like him.  A commerce student and Kalundu resident, Swayvy counts cars, junk food and soccer as his other interests.

The group scored their first real success when they released the song “Esther Phiri”.  The song received a fair amount of attention on Lusaka radio stations and the underground circuit.  Things began to slow down when 32 and Swayvy transferred to CBU and Mulungushi respectively.  Plans to record an album were shelved as it was almost impossible to coordinate recording sessions with conflicting school calendars.

Now under the wing of former Q FM and X.Y.Z heavyweight stretch.dj the group has rediscovered their passion and are forging ahead with plans to release their mixtape “D.O.A: Death of Audiotape “ as well as 32 Karat’s solo project “the Mixtape Called the Album”.  2012 indeed looks bright for the young talented starlets, as they hope to bring nothing but the very best for the listening public.  Fans can expect collaborations with established acts as well as videos by the end of the year as well as their very first LP in the first quarter of next year.

THE MUSIC

Uli so

By Kapa187