Gandanga is a Shona language term used in Southern Africa to refer to Patriotic Front insurgents serving with the Zimbabwe African National Liberation Army (ZANLA) or the Zimbabwe People's Revolutionary Army (ZIPRA) during the Rhodesian Bush War. It is a particularly common expression among the Zezuru people of Zimbabwe. The word "Gandanga" simply means "rebel", a reference to guerrillas who waged unconventional warfare against the Rhodesian Security Forces in the 1970s. It has since come to denote a new form of pop culture in Zimbabwe, especially in the form of "Gandanga Music" - "Rebel Music", as hyped by Bob Marley when he performed at a Zimbabwean independence ceremony held at Rufaro Stadium.
Gandanga Music Zimbabwe
Gandanga Music Zimbabwe is a label now used by Harare based producer Herbert Schwamborn, which hosts most "new generation" musicians from Zimbabwe.
The label targets urban artists and provides an outlet for new music through various digital and physical distribution options.
The label has set up international partnerships and is now focusing on bringing Gandanga Music to an international audience.