Poised as the most sought-after celebration of music (R&B), art, and community, Strictly Soul yesterday announced the dates of the upcoming edition of the event, which will be its third time happening in Kampala.
What’s good Strictly Soul Fam! 🎶
— Strictly Soul (@Strictlysoul) January 31, 2025
We back this year and we’re about to rock your world with the February & March dates!🗓️
Ticket link in bio! 🔗 pic.twitter.com/kVNs22LFmj
The Akio Kawahito-curated event first took place on Independence Day Eve (October 8) at Golden Hill Restaurant and Lounge (Muyenga) and left a mark on those who attended, prompting them to crave more.
A brief background: having started as simple Instagram Live sessions during the lockdown, Strictly Soul has since evolved into a cultural movement uniting thousands of R&B lovers across the continent. The event debuted live in South Africa (Cape Town) in 2020. It has since taken the entire continent by storm as it now visits select cities like Kigali (Rwanda), Tanzania, Namibia, Kenya, Botswana, and most recently, Kampala, joining the list of cities to experience this ever-growing phenomenon of an event.
Strictly Soul offers a platform for all styles of R&B, from Old School classics to contemporary genres like Trap Soul, Afro Soul, and Neo-Soul. With 20 years of entertainment experience under his belt, the event’s music director and resident DJ, Akio, headlines every event, expertly guiding attendees through a musical journey that starts slow and smooth, building into a full-on dance party. The event is hosted by the vibrant Anita Makgetla, who adds an extra layer of warmth and energy, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed.
The Golden Hill Restaurant and Lounge 360 Rooftop Bar, which has been the event’s venue for the past two episodes in Kampala, offers the most befitting ambiance for R&B fans to bond as they sing along to their favorite all-time classics. Whether it is “When I See U” by Fantasia or Ella Mai’s “Boo’d Up,” the crowd always gets the vibe check right, singing along word for word and enjoying each other’s company.
The previous edition, as always, featured a stellar lineup of DJs. Sal Deejay and DJ Melvyn eased the attendees into the evening with a smooth blend of soul music, both old and new school, delivering a mix of nostalgia and feel-good vibes. DJ Akio stepped in from time to time with immensely exciting sets, serving the people exactly what they came for—R&B, just the way they like it.
Kampala!!🇺🇬
— Strictly Soul (@Strictlysoul) December 18, 2024
S/o to everyone who showed up and supported us throughout the year! It was a jump!❤️
Keep an eye out for our album drop. 🔗
See y’all next year ✅
DJ: @akio_kawahito
Song: Dancing queen – @ABBA pic.twitter.com/p39o82BwF7
It is little wonder that when Strictly Soul announced yesterday that they would be returning to Kampala for yet another edition, internet R&B/Soul music fans were ecstatic. Set for February 27, the event will be switching venues to 1420 Restobar, rather than the usual spot at Golden Hill Restaurant and Lounge. Tickets are now available on the event’s website. Get yours now.
