In 1973, having used 'Nkosi Sikeleli Africa' for over 9 years, it was decided that new lyrics set to the tune of 'Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika' would be needed for Zambia's national anthem. Following the passing of the Zambia Independence Act 1964 in the Parliament of the United Kingdom, enacting Zambia's independence from the United Kingdom, 'Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika' was adopted as the national anthem of Zambia, replacing ' God Save the Queen', the anthem of Northern Rhodesia. Its popularity spread across Africa through churches, and the tune became associated with African nationalism movements across the continent, particularly in East and Southern Africa. It became a closing hymn for African National Congress (ANC) meetings and later became a symbolic song for black struggle against the Apartheid regime. 'Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika' started to become popular in South Africa in 1923 as a Christian hymn. The lyrics were composed after Zambian independence to specifically reflect Zambia, as opposed to Sontonga's lyrics, which refer to Africa as a whole.
The tune is taken from the hymn ' Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika' (English: 'Lord Bless Africa'), which was composed by Xhosa composer Enoch Sontonga, in 1897. ' Stand and Sing of Zambia, Proud and Free' is the national anthem of Zambia.
