It was a weekend of R&B and soul music celebration, as Kigali hosted "Strictly Soul" for the fourth time, was a perfect mix of rhythm and ambiance.
The event was held at Atelier du Vin, which once again spotlighted the venue’s growing reputation as an emerging and exceptional nightlife destination that offers a unique space for mixed soul music and celebrations.
Known as Africa&039;s leading R&B and Soul music event, Strictly Soul continues to attract music lovers across the continent, creating unforgettable experience. The event also aims to elevate the region’s nightlife with dynamic live shows and old school musical performances.
This edition in Kigali followed recent stops in Kampala, Uganda, and Nairobi, Kenya, as part of the platform’s East African tour.
ALSO READ: How 'Strictly Soul' is changing Kigali's party experience
At 9 pm, excited revelers started filling the venue, eagerly anticipating the night ahead. It wasn’t a sit-down affair as attendees came prepared to dance, enjoy the soulful tunes, and engage themselves in a vibrant celebration of both classic and modern R&B hits.
DJ Akio Kawahoto, the founder and curator of Strictly Soul, kicked off the evening with a carefully curated set that energised the audience. The night also featured performances by South African DJs Rugz along with local favourite DJ Infinity from Kigali.
Hosting duties were taken up by Zuba Mutesi, Lady Bicu, Delah, and Anita Makgetla, who is also an event curator.
Makgetla told The New Time that she and her team are committed to continental expansion, adding that being hosted at Atelier Du Vin aligns perfectly with their brand.
"Expanding in East Africa has been really exciting, and we’re really enjoying the experience in Kigali. It fits our brand and reflects what we want Strictly Soul to be. We are fortunate to have partnered with Atelier Du Vin because the venue is size wise, aesthetics, and all of those things. It’s almost the perfect venue," she said.
Makgetla is optimistic about the positive reception Strictly Soul has received, particularly from Kigali’s nightlife and music scene. She believes the city is really giving a cosmopolitan vibe.
"We’ve been very happy because we feel we’ve brought something Rwandans genuinely enjoy, and the response has been exciting and highly supportive,” she added.
The latest event built on the momentum from Strictly Soul’s debut in Kigali, in March 2024. The very first l show introduced contemporary R&B mixed with keyboard melodies, synths, basslines, and energetic drum beats to enthusiastic audiences. Following its success, the event was held again in May and August, firmly establishing its presence in the city’s nightlife schedule.