28/08/2025
Drimz Opens Up on Yomaps, Calls for Unity in Zambian Music Industry
By Maimbo Mweemba
Zambian singer and songwriter Lota Mandevu, popularly known as Drimz Bashi Lota, has opened up about his relationship with fellow hitmaker Yomaps, reflecting on their history while emphasizing the need for collaboration over competition in the local music industry.
Speaking on the Kenny 1 on 1 podcast, Drimz revealed that he was one of the first to recognize Yomaps’ talent when he heard his “golden voice” on radio in 2017.
He encouraged Yomaps to finish school and helped introduce him to the music scene, leading to early collaborations like Keep Zambia Clean and Effort.
“When you look at me, I’m a product not just of my hard work but of many people’s sacrifices. Success isn’t success if you keep it to yourself. I’m not shy to share my light with others,” Drimz said
When asked about his current relationship with Yomaps, Drimz did not give a clear response but expressed pride in his success.
“Sometimes you withdraw even when you want to talk about things. The human interest in people can become proud and boastful. I’m proud of him,” he said.
Drimz further stressed that the Zambian music industry is bigger than any single artist and called for stronger unity among musicians, pointing to Nigeria’s thriving music scene as an example of how collaboration can lift the industry.
“The industry is bigger than the artist, not the artist being bigger than the industry,” he added.
The Kabwe-born singer also used the interview to dispel the long-held belief that artists must move to Lusaka to succeed.
Drimz, who started his career as a church vocalist, said he chose to remain in Kabwe and build his brand through performances across the country, rather than relocating to the capital.
“For an artist with a national character like mine, I don’t only perform in Lusaka. I go to Solwezi, Livingstone, Mbala, Chipata and other towns,” he said.
Drimz recalled his journey from dreaming of being a footballer to finding his voice in church, working as a backup singer for big names like K’Millian and General Ozzy, and eventually becoming a household name himself.
The hitmaker also urged Zambian artists to embrace patriotism and mentorship, saying the growth of the industry depends on artists uplifting each other rather than competing for dominance.
