Esther Chungu

Esther Chungu Mubanga, professionally known as Esther Chungu, is a Zambian gospel singer, songwriter, worship leader and recording artist. She is known for a contemporary gospel sound that combines Christian worship with African rhythms and modern pop influences. Her music often centers on faith, gratitude, God’s faithfulness and the believer’s relationship with God.

Chungu began her professional music career in 2014 under the stage name Carmine, releasing her debut single, “Shooting Star.” She later chose to perform under her real name, explaining that she wanted her music and ministry to be associated with her own identity. Her debut album, Mubanga, was released in 2016 and established her as one of the notable young voices in Zambia’s gospel music scene.

Early Life and Musical Background

Esther Chungu grew up in Zambia in a family with strong musical connections. Her late father was involved in church music, leading a church choir and playing guitar, while her mother also sang. Chungu has credited her family environment with influencing both her love for music and the faith-centered message that became central to her songwriting.

Although music eventually became her profession, Chungu initially had ambitions of becoming a lawyer. She enrolled in a law programme at the University of Lusaka before deciding to pursue music full time. Her background in education and her interest in social issues would later contribute to her work beyond music, particularly her advocacy for women and young people.

Beginning of Her Music Career

Chungu’s professional recording career began in 2014 when she released “Shooting Star” under the name Carmine. The song received a positive response and helped introduce her to Zambia’s contemporary music audience.

By the end of 2015, she had decided to stop using the Carmine stage name and began releasing music as Esther Chungu. She later became associated with Brave Only Music, a collective founded by Zambian musician and producer Magg 44. Her transition to using her real name was part of a broader desire to build her career around her identity and Christian calling.

Mubanga

In 2016, Chungu released her debut album, Mubanga, named after her surname. The project established her as a solo gospel recording artist and contained songs that would become closely associated with her early career, including “Jehovah” and “Runaway Child.”

“Jehovah” became one of Chungu’s signature songs. Its success eventually took the song beyond Zambia and introduced her music to international audiences. The album also demonstrated her ability to combine worship themes with contemporary African production rather than relying exclusively on traditional gospel arrangements.

April

Chungu followed Mubanga with April, released in December 2020. The album expanded the musical direction established by her debut and featured several collaborations.

One of its best-known songs is “Sangalala,” featuring fellow Zambian gospel artist Pompi. The song became particularly significant because Chungu and Pompi were married in 2021, and the accompanying video incorporated footage celebrating their relationship.

Another notable track from the project was “Chikangabwe,” which Chungu recorded with the group 412. The song became part of her growing catalogue of music that blends gospel with contemporary Zambian sounds. April is listed among her major studio albums alongside Mubanga and UMWALA.

UMWALA and Later Music

Chungu released her third major album, UMWALA, in April 2023. The project further developed her contemporary African gospel sound and included songs such as “Fendela” featuring Pompi, “Asumbulwe,” “Amapalo,” “Tondolo,” “Fearless” and “Chibebebe” featuring Minister GUC.

Her later catalogue has continued to include both solo releases and collaborations. Songs such as “Power,” “Complicated,” “Asumbulwe” and “Fearless” have expanded her repertoire, while her collaborations with artists including Pompi, Chileshe Bwalya, Magg 44 and Minister GUC have connected her with different parts of the African gospel and contemporary music scenes.

In 2025, she released “Daily II,” while her catalogue has continued to receive new collaborative appearances in 2026.

International Recognition

One of the most significant moments of Chungu’s career came in September 2021 when she performed “Jehovah” with Coldplay at Global Citizen Live in New York City. Chris Martin introduced her during the band’s performance, and Chungu performed the song alongside Coldplay and other musicians. Global Citizen subsequently highlighted the performance among the event’s notable musical moments.

The appearance brought Chungu’s gospel music to a large international audience and represented an important moment for Zambian music on a global stage. She has also performed at major events in Africa, including the Pamoja Festival in Burundi. Zambezi Magic has described her as an artist whose work combines faith-centered music with activism and community engagement.

Awards and Advocacy

Chungu received the Anakazi Woman of the Year Award in 2019. The recognition reflected not only her work as a musician but also her growing influence as a young Zambian woman working in the entertainment industry. She has spoken about wanting to encourage women to recognize their potential and pursue meaningful careers and opportunities.

Her activities have extended beyond music into advocacy and media. She has used her public platform to discuss issues affecting women and young people and has participated in initiatives focused on empowerment and social development.

Personal Life and Continuing Career

Esther Chungu married fellow Zambian gospel artist Pompi in April 2021. Their marriage has also resulted in several musical collaborations, including “Sangalala,” which became a celebration of their relationship and faith.

Chungu has continued to balance music, worship ministry and advocacy. Her catalogue now spans three major albums, numerous singles and collaborations, with her music reaching audiences beyond Zambia through streaming platforms, international performances and cross-border collaborations.

From her beginnings as Carmine and the release of “Shooting Star” in 2014 to Mubanga, April, UMWALA and her appearance with Coldplay at Global Citizen Live, Esther Chungu has developed a distinctive place within contemporary African gospel music. Her work continues to combine worship, Zambian musical influences and messages of faith, while her activities outside music have expanded her role as an advocate and public voice for women and young people.