By Our Reporter
If you missed the second edition of Strictly Soul at Golden Hill in Muyenga, you missed a truly unforgettable night. The event stands out on Kampala’s social calendar for exactly the right reason; a fusion of soulful music, nostalgia, and pure luxury.
Strictly Soul recently got a new headline sponsor in Johnnie Walker Uganda, who added a touch of sophistication, and transformed it into an extraordinary experience.
What made this edition unmissable? RnB heaven curated by the legendary Akio Kawahito and the city’s finest DJs, soul-stirring performances, and Johnnie Walker cocktails flowing like liquid gold.
It may have only launched in October, but with just two editions, the event has become the heartbeat of Kampala’s Soul and RnB lovers. Tickets sold out faster than you could imagine with eager party-goers struggling to get into the venue.
The music? Absolutely magical. DJ Akio Kawahito opened the decks with a mix of timeless RnB classics and modern twists, delivering hits like Beyoncé’s Halo, and SZA’s Snooze.
By the time the crowd caught their breath, DJ Melvyn and the sensational SAL Deejay – the first female DJ on the Strictly Soul lineup – took the vibe to new heights. From Chris Brown’s Say Goodbye, to Khalid’s Location, Alicia Keys’ Girl on Fire, and Rihanna’s Rehab, the crowd couldn’t stop singing along.
When Beyoncé’s Diva hit, the dance floor exploded, SAL’s masterful blend of nostalgia and current bangers ensured there wasn’t a dull moment.
By 11pm, the energy was electric, a sea of bodies grooving to every beat. If the music was the heartbeat, Johnnie Walker was the soul of the night. Signature cocktails, bespoke bottle serves, and the brand’s iconic energy kept the momentum going. Guests didn’t just sip whisky; they savored a lifestyle.
“This edition of Strictly Soul was pure magic, and we’re thrilled that Johnnie Walker could be a part of it. RnB is all about emotion and connection, and that’s exactly what Johnnie Walker brought to the table tonight – a perfect blend of smooth vibes, flavour and unforgettable energy. To everyone who missed it, all I can say is, please make it a point to be part of the next edition,” said Christine Kyokunda, Johnnie Walker Brand Manager.
As the clock struck 2am, Akio Kawahito returned for a grand finale, filled with throwback hits that transported everyone back to the golden age of RnB. Tracks like Beyoncé’s “If I Were a Boy,” Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” and Bob Marley’s “Turn Your Lights Down Low” capped off a night of unforgettable vibes.
If you weren’t there, no recap can do it justice. The energy was electric, the vibes unmatched, and the memories priceless!
