In a sensational spectacle that lit up the Kampala Sheraton Hotel Gardens, Saturday, August 5, will forever be etched in the memories of all who attended the illustrious "Legends of Sound" concert.
The evening unfolded with an aura of excitement as the clock struck 7:00 pm, marking the beginning of a musical journey like no other.
Mesach Semakula and Ragga Dee, two esteemed artists, commanded the stage with their opening acts, setting the tone for the sonic extravaganza that awaited the eager audience.
However, the climax of anticipation was met when the illustrious Afrigo Band, draped in elegance, graced the spotlight at 8:20 pm, accompanied by a breathtaking display of fireworks that illuminated the night sky.
The air was charged with an electric atmosphere as the legendary band's enchanting melodies intertwined with the pulsating beats.
From the very first notes of "Abaana ba Afrigo" to the captivating renditions of "Emmere Esilide," "Mundeke" by Joanita Kawalya, and the soulful strains of "Emaali" by Bugweri Woman MP Racheal Magoola, the crowd was taken on a mesmerizing journey through a repertoire of hits that had defined eras.
Guiding the proceedings with the finesse of a seasoned emcee, Abbey Mukiibi, a venerable media personality, lent an air of gravitas to the night's festivities. Following a brief intermission at 9:30 pm, the stage was seized by the chief guest performer, none other than the Congolese sensation, Awilo Longomba.
Bursting onto the scene at 9:40 pm, Awilo's exuberant performance was a firework of energy and rhythm, accompanied by the graceful dance moves of Ugandan performers and the harmonious cadence of the Afrigo live band.
In a touching tribute to the Afrigo Band's storied journey, Awilo commended their musicianship, attributing his delight to the privilege of sharing the stage with a local ensemble. As the clock struck 10:00 pm, Eddy Yawe took center stage, serenading the audience with timeless hits such as "Mukayembe" and "Tukiggale," ensuring that the night's momentum remained unbroken.
The magnetic pull of the evening drew Rachael Magoola back to the stage, infusing the crowd with palpable excitement through her rendition of the hit song "Obangaina."
The transition to DJ Alberto's eclectic mix of old school classics at 10:30 pm infused a nostalgic undertone to the night's proceedings.
The Afrigo Band, like a phoenix rising, returned to the stage for one final appearance at 10:45 pm. Their captivating session rekindled the flames of nostalgia with resounding renditions of timeless classics like "Taliyo," "Mpedembe," "Music," and "Speed."
The pinnacle of the night arrived with their legendary anthem "Jim," performed in harmonious synergy with Awilo Longomba, creating a crescendo of emotions that resonated throughout the crowd.
Yet, the night held one more surprise, at precisely 11:47 pm, when the spotlight was unceremoniously seized by the surprise act of none other than the enigmatic Jose Chameleone. With electrifying performances of hits like "Wale Wale," "Kipepeo," and "Mama Rhoda," he brought the curtains down on the show, punctuating it at the stroke of 11:55 pm.
In a departure from the glitz and glamour typical of such events, the "Legends of Sound" concert witnessed a sea change, drawing attendees primarily for their love of music rather than the allure of the spotlight.
Among the notable figures in the mesmerized crowd was musician Juliana Kanyomozi, an embodiment of the resonance that the music of Afrigo Band has found across generations.
As the night drew to a close, it was not just the stars above that shone brightly; it was the legacy of Afrigo Band, a forty-eight-year odyssey in the music industry, that illuminated the hearts and souls of all those fortunate enough to be part of this transcendent experience.
