By Our Reporter

Swangz Avenue singer and Red Card ambassador, Vinka has released a new single in which she cautions against drunk driving. Dubbed “Red Card”, it was officially premiered on Thursday evening at Club Amnesia.

Produced by Swangz Avenue, the song carries a message declaring that it is okay to have fun and celebrate life by consuming alcohol as long as the consumer makes responsible drinking decisions.

“I know this song is catchy and dance-able, but I want you to listen to the lyrics and pass on the message in the song to your friends,” she said. “It is okay to consume alcohol but you should not drink and drive. Always have a designated driver or call a cab.”

The new single is the official song for Uganda Breweries Limited responsible drinking campaign, “Join the Pact”, that is aimed at reminding alcohol consumers and music lovers to shun drink driving, an irresponsible act that could cause harm to their lives.

Uganda Breweries Corporate Relations Manager David Onyango noted, “Music and alcohol are part of every celebration. As Uganda Breweries Limited, we are using the music platform to amplify our responsible drinking message and reach our consumers in their favorite hangout spots where the consumption happens. We believe that responsible drinking can be part of a balanced lifestyle and we encourage you all to enjoy our products safely.”

Uganda Breweries Limited, under Red Card Initiative, has since December 2018 been running a responsible drinking campaign that is aimed at engaging consumers to make a commitment to never drink and drive, in a bid to reduce drink driving incidents in Uganda.

The campaign dubbed “Join the Pact” is targeting to collect 10,000 commitments over a period of 6 months.

The post Vinka cautions against drunk driving in new song appeared first on BigEye.UG.

Madoxx Ssematimba will be one of the acts to watch out for at the “Tugende Mu Kikadde” show.

By Our Reporter

The “Tugende Mu Kikadde” show is back! The annual oldies concert which is returning for the 3rd edition is set to take place on Saturday, May 4 at the Kampala Serena Hotel.

The show which is aimed at celebrating Ugandan artistes whose music rocked the local airwaves in the early 70s, 80s and 90s will feature performances from artistes including Madoxx Ssemanda Ssematimba, Angela Kalule, Chance Nalubega, Willy Mukabya, and Betty Mpologoma among others.

Speaking during a press conference held on Thursday to officially announce this year’s edition, Willy Mukabya promised to take revellers down memory lane and give them a taste of how they did their thing in their golden days.

“I am thankful for this platform that allows us to give the young generation a taste of what music used to be like in the old days,” he said. “Our performances had a touch of theatrics and this is exactly what I will be giving revellers come d-day.”

On his part, Madoxx Ssematimba lauded the organisers on the concept, adding that, “young people need to listen to words of their elders and maybe they may learn something that could help them grow.”

The show will see revelers reliving their old memories as it is expected to be a cocktail of vintage fashion and oldies music.

Tickets are already on sale at Shs100,000 (VIP), Shs300,000 (VVIP), and Shs3,000,000 (Platinum).

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Brenda Atai explains the different offers for customers during the launch of her hair brand.

By Our Reporter

Brenda Atai, a Ugandan beauty entrepreneur based in the UK, has launched her hair brand in Uganda. Dubbed “Ms Atai”, it was unveiled during an intimate cocktail evening held at Holy Crepe on Tuesday.

Speaking at the launch, Atai revealed that she has always been passionate about making hair and now wants to share her passion with the rest of the world.

“I have always loved my hair and taken pride in it. I want to share my knowledge with my fellow Ugandan women,” she said. “I want them to feel confident and empowered whenever they wear my hair brand.”

The hair brand which was started in London in November last year comprises of premium virgin human hair in a variety of styles such as curly short bobs and straight shoulder skimming tresses among others.

According to Atai, every wig is hand custom-made and currently only available on her online store.  “Each piece is created by hand because every customer is different, and I want each of them to feel special,” she added.

Meanwhile, she plans to eventually set up a beauty shop where customers can get all-hair products as well as salon services.

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Nakijoba Lydia, a student of the African Institute of Music receives a saxophone from the facilitators.

By Our Reporter

Last week, jazz artist Isaiah Katumwa organised a two-day music workshop at Makerere University and at the African Institute of Music, Lubowa where music students were given eye-opening lessons on how to pursue their dreams in life.

The music workshop attracted quite a number of students majoring in music who gathered to learn more about music and the entertainment industry.

Organised by Isaiah Katumwa and facilitated by Chris Lang and American saxophonist Darren Rahn, the workshop entailed a mentorship, music classes and a give-away of instruments to the passionate students from both institutes.

“We organised this workshop to help these students realize and reach their potential. Our youth need to be guided on ways to handle themselves in this very demanding industry. It is all about staying true to yourself, being creative and showing dedication to your craft but above all putting all your trust in God,” said Katumwa.

Darren Rahn also advised the university students to always embrace humility in order to make it anywhere in this world.

“You should all make everyday a learning experience. This adds onto your value and worth as a person and will always motivate you to do your best in improving yourself and your craft,” he stressed.

Katumwa and Darren Rahn also shared their past personal struggles and their perspective on life in a heartfelt moment that touched hearts as they urged students to follow their desires and dreams no matter the limitations that arise.

The workshop which is a build up to the annual Johnnie Walker Isaiah Katumwa concert slated for Tuesday, April 30 at the Kampala Serena Hotel gave out over 50 music instruments to the aspiring students to help perfect their music craft.

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By Our Reporter

DJ Mackus was the big winner as Evoke Night returned for the third season on Friday evening at Lugogo Forest Mall parking.

Dubbed “The Rebirth”, the first episode of the new season saw deejays pitted against dancers in a battle for 1 million shillings. Mackus faced off with other finalists who included two other deejays— Dj Wiz J & Dj Irakoze —and three dance groups— Archers, H2C & Trojans —with each contestant getting a chance at winning over the crowd with a showcase of their skill.

The dancers put on an energetic show, and the deejays were also thrilling, with every act ending with cheers and applause from the audience. However, as it later turned out, it was Mackus who had managed to woo the crowd with his artistry on the decks as he emerged victor.

The Club-sponsored event was not short on fun and entertainment with lots of other activities and performances lined up to keep revelers engaged. Revelers enjoyed spoken word, dance showcases, dj mixes, fashion show and movie screening as different acts including Laker, Afrikane and Evoke Band took over the stage.

Evoke Night made its debut on the Ugandan social calendar in September 2017. It is a show that celebrates raw, untapped talent by providing a platform for young and gifted performers to showcase, communicate and express themselves through art. The next episode will be held this May in Mbarara.

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By Our Reporter

The year’s first segment of the much-anticipated Blankets & Wine music festival got off to a rousing start on Sunday at the Lugogo Cricket Oval as main acts South African artiste Shekhinah and our own King Saha gave show-goers their money’s worth with memorable performances.

Party people had already begun strolling through the gates at the Tusker Malt- sponsored event by 2pm with their picnic gear ready to set up camp for the 22 nd edition of one of Kampala’s favourite festivals, eyeing yet another fun-filled day of mingling, food, drink and music. True to reputation, Blankets & Wine did not disappoint.

The event kicked off with performances from the fresh Nu Kampala Acts category with 1Der Jr and songbirds Lamu and Martha Mukisa who showed off their vocals on stage and kept the crowd entertained during the first instalment of the music festival.

As day turned to dusk, the legendary Boss of Bass, Sammy Kasule, graced the stage and took everyone back in time with all-time favourites like Ekitobero, and Shauri Yako as revelers were spotted swaying along in rhythm.

Now the stage was set for South African songstress Shekhinah to take over, infusing the show with EDM, House and Afro music vibes that had fans stomping the ground in sync to her popular hit singles, Suited, Please Mr and Different, off her platinum album “Rose Gold”.

Our very own King Saha late took over the stage to regale the audience with hit songs like Biri Biri, Very Well and Mpa Love for the rest of the night. Even as late as 10pm, it was clear none wanted to end their night as they were caught up in the fun upbeat music mixes served by DJ Fya Leboof and DJ Kasbaby as Ms Deedan amplified the party vibes on stage nonstop.

Blankets and Wine, a picnic style musical festival, remains one of the most popular events on the local social calendar and is the place to be for Ugandans who enjoy Afro-based music.

The post King Saha, Shekhinah thrill revelers at Blankets and Wine appeared first on BigEye.UG.

Susan Muwonge is one of the drivers who have confirmed attendance for the rally experience.

By Our Reporter

You have seen them on the race track, and perhaps, only admired them from afar. But your chance to hang out with your favorite rally drivers is here.

Motor rally fans finally have a rare opportunity to meet their stars off the track and even wine and dine with them. This is all happening at the Rally Experience slated for this Saturday, May 4 at Rock Bar.

Ace drivers like Suzan Muwonge, Pole Pole, Leon Ssenyange are but a snippet of the rally drivers that have confirmed their attendance at the rally experience that will start at 2pm.

According to Bright Onak, one of the organizers of the event, revelers will experience a number of exciting activities. “The event will feature a number of entertainment aspects. We understand that rally drivers and enthusiasts, as well as fans like to rally on video games. So there will be a set up for that. There will be quizzes about the motor rally sport, and beer games and video mixing from some of the best DJ’s in Uganda,” he relayed.

Entrance is free.

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Willy Entertainment’s Pretty Joy (L) and Jimmy Arabu, a musician from South Sudan speak to media.

By Our Reporter

Kampala is known to many as East Africa’s entertainment capital. And rightly so, given its vibrant nightlife. It comes then as no surprise that it continues to attract party lovers as well as entertainers from across the region.

We have learnt that latest group that wants to revel in Kampala’s nightlife is from South Sudan. News reaching our desk indicates that Willy Entertainment, an event and music promotion company based in South Sudan, is planning to host a night to cater to the South Sudanese living in the country.

According to Pretty Joy from Willy Entertainment, the weekly event aims to showcase South Sudan’s music and entertainment side and also provide a platform for South Sudanese musicians to connect with their Ugandan counterparts.

“We have been ravaged by conflict and instability for a long time, and this is the first thing that comes to the mind of many when you talk about South Sudan. We now want to show the world our other side; our entertainment side.” Pretty Joy relayed.

Dubbed “Southern Connect Night”, it will be held every Thursday at Lit Lounge, Bukoto. The event will make its debut on Thursday, May 9 and will feature performances from top South Sudanese musicians including Jimmy Arabu, Emmy Mizaya, Silver X and Irene Toss among others.

“We also hope to open up new markets for our music and sell it beyond our borders,” she added.

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Lucky Mbabazi and Police chief Andrew Sorowen during the launch of “Lucky’s Groove Back” season 2 held at Legends bar & restaurant on Tuesday.

By Our Reporter

Capital FM presenter Lucky Mbabazi has officially announced the second edition of her fitness event dubbed “Lucky’s Groove Back”.

The event which is aimed at changing the mindset and attitudes of Ugandans towards exercising and gym workouts will be held this Saturday, May 4 at Legends Rugby grounds.

Addressing media on Tuesday, Lucky Mbabazi revealed that the event is going to be bigger with a focus on self-defense and also cater for children.

“We have partnered with Uganda Police and they will be taking participants through self-defense drills,” she said. “We will also still have sessions in zumba, yoga, and aerobics”.

“There will also be a kids’ section where children will also be taken through drills that suit their age and lots of games.” She added.

The first edition of “Lucky’s Groove Back” was held early March this year and attracted over 300 participants.

The post Lucky Mbabazi partners with Police to teach self-defense skills appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

The Bell Jamz Listeners Experience returned for its second edition on Tuesday night at Nexus Lounge with music duo Kent and Flosso sending revelers to early labour day celebrations with their energetic performance.

Kent and Flosso who graced the stage at 11;30pm were welcomed with cheers from the excited crowd. Backed by Janzi band, they set off the night to free style performances that kept all the party animals on their feet. The duo thrilled revelers with songs like Byafayo, Cheza Mama, Pull Up and the popular Overdose hit featuring Vinka.

Round one of their performance lasted about 45 minutes before paving way for legendary Ugandan singer Ragga Dee whose stage presence never seems to disappoint.

Throwing his dreadlocks around as he performed, he had the crowd dancing to his songs including Ndigida, Abantu, Letter O, Empeta and Stranger among others.

Kent and Flosso made a second appearance in different costumes thrilling the audience till the wee hours of the morning.

The show was also graced by several other musicians including Vinka, Hit Nature, Kalifah Aganaga and comedians, Madrat and Chiko among others.

The Bell Jamz Listeners Experience is a monthly music series aimed at shining a spotlight on one Ugandan artist through an exclusive, up-close and personal performance for fans.

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Isaac Rucci, the event emcee, having a chat with Vinka during the “Sure” video premiere event held at Racers Bar.

By Our Reporter

Swangz Avenue songstress, Vinka has remained true to her word. The singer who promised to release a brand new video every month this year has released the video for May, making it her fifth video of the year.

Dubbed “Sure”, the video was officially premiered on Wednesday evening during an event held at Racers bar in Bukoto.

“I had an amazing time working on this video, but I can’t say it was an entirely new experience because I was working with a team I have previously worked with on different projects,” she said at the premiere.

The video was directed by Swangz Avenue’s Marvin Musoke with Tazibone Solomon doing the styling while the choreography was by Rozmerie Atim and Cathy Luna.

The video which runs for 2 minutes and 41 seconds was shot in Munyonyo over one day.

Vinka has so far released other songs including “Only For You” ft. Yung6ix, “Oluyimba Lwomaka”, and “Goodie Goodie”.

“I am not feeling any undue pressure because of releasing a new video every month,” she noted. “The music is there, and we want the fans to enjoy every song rather than release an album and some songs don’t get listened to.”

Watch the “Sure” video below.

The post Vinka premieres new video — “Sure”. Watch it here! appeared first on BigEye.UG.

Brand 7D CEO Ronald Kivumbi explains the new route for the run.

By Our Reporter

The Kampala Night Run is back! The run made its entry onto Uganda’s social scene in a big way with a successful debut last year, and now returns for a second edition come Sunday, June 2.

The second edition of the one-of-its-kind fun run was officially announced on Thursday at a press conference held at Route 256. It will be offering much more too, including a longer route and more fun activities and lots of music performances.

Brand 7D CEO Ronald Kivumbi reveled that the run will be three kilometres this time round, up from the two kilometres participants had to deal with last year.

The flag-off is planned for 7pm, and the start and end points have been retained at Torino Bar and Restaurant as was the case in 2018. Also returning this year are the glow accessories which captured the imagination at the inaugural event, with a well-lit route completing the “Lite the Way” theme of main sponsors Tusker Lite.

After the run is done, the flag-off point; Torino Bar will be converted into a party venue as it will host the run’s after-party.

“We are really excited about the return of the Tusker Lite Kampala Night Run. It was huge last year and we are looking forward to bringing friends together yet again to break a sweat while having fun at the same time,” said Cathy Twesigye, UBL Brand Manager, Premium Beers.

Some of the prizes lined up for different categories include those for the shortest time to reach the finish line, first runner-up, second runner-up, the most creative runner, most stylish runner, most “lit” runner and the best squad.

And to turn up the temperature, runners will be ushered into a night of top class entertainment with performances from artistes including Irene Ntale, Winnie Nwagi, Hit Nature, Pallaso, Grenade and top disc spinners in Kampala.

The post Kampala Night Run back for second edition appeared first on BigEye.UG.

Madoxx Ssematimba performs at the “Tugende Mu Kikadde” show.

By Our Reporter

The scores who turned up for the 3rd edition of the “Tugende Mu Kikadde” show on Saturday at the Kampala Serena hotel had a memorable evening as the acts lined up for the show lived up to their billing.

Willy Mukabya was the first act of the evening, stepping on stage at around 8.30pm. The kadongo kamu singer who had promised a theatrical performance during the pre-concert press briefing, fulfilled his promise. He delivered a stellar performance that was marked by humorous antics that had the crowd in stitches.

He later left the stage for Angella Kalule who entertained the crowd with some of her songs like “Mulaalo Wange”, “Ani”, “Kankwekumire”, and “Kati kiti” among others.

Kalule later paved way for Chance Nalubega who upped the tempo. She had the crowd singing and dancing along as she performed several of her songs such as “Guuma Omwoyo”, “Omusheshe”, and “Obulamu Bwakisela”. Her performance was not complete until she sang Abatesi rmx, a song with the late Mowzey Radio. She had the crowd singing Radio’s part, as the lights were put out and the crowd lit up the hall with their cell phones in a breathtaking sight.

Chance Nalubega’s performance was followed by Betty Mpologoma who had a brief showcase doing her songs like “Enamba”, “Big Daddy” and “Fasi Fasi”, before leaving the stage for Madoxx Sematimba who crowned the evening.

Madoxx was received with loud cheers and ululation from the crowd as he went on to perform his songs like “Dembe”, “Wowote”, “Namagembe” and “Omukwano”. The audience could not get enough of the local reggae star as they danced and sang along to each of the songs.

When the curtains finally came down on the Nile Special-sponsored event minutes after midnight, it was clear revelers had had their money’s worth.

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Vinka entertains students during a mentorship session on responsible drinking held at Makerere University on Friday.

By Our Reporter

As part of the initiative to discourage drunk driving and promote responsible drinking among the youth, Uganda Breweries Limited (UBL) on Friday went to Makerere University and conducted a mentorship session on drunk driving.

The mentorship which was under the Red Card initiative brought together university students, student leaders and members of the teaching body who engaged in the responsible drinking conversation and later made the commitment to Join the Pact to never drink and drive.

Speaking during the session, Uganda Breweries Corporate Relations Manager David Onyango advised the youth to spearhead the campaign against drunk driving because they constitute the largest percentage of the country’s population.

The crowd also received mentorship from the campaign ambassadors Vinka, Innocent Nahabwe and Calvin Kalule.

At the same event, Vinka put up a massive performance of her songs including her latest Red Card song urging the students who were in a groovy mood to be responsible when drinking.

The post Makerere University students tipped on responsible drinking appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

Capital FM presenter Lucky Mbabazi held the second edition of her fitness event dubbed “Lucky’s Groove Back” on Saturday at Legends Rugby Grounds.

Promising to be bigger and better, the 2nd edition indeed did not disappoint. It was a fun day filled with lots of high-adrenaline activities both for the kids and adults.

Scores of participants who turned up as early as 2pm for the event kicked off with Self-defense sessions that were conducted by experts from Uganda Police led by Maurine Awor who holds a black belt in Taekwondo.

That was followed by an energetic zumba session conducted by Gerry Opoka and the Soul sisters. By the time it was done everyone was drenched in sweat. However, there wasn’t much time to rest as Robbie Fitness team soon took over with aerobics sessions that went into the night.

As all this went on, kids were also enjoying themselves at their section which had several fun activities like face painting, and bouncing castles among others.

“Lucky’s Groove Back” is an initiative aimed at changing the mindset and attitudes of Ugandans towards exercising and gym workouts by exposing them to simple workout routines that can be done at their comfort and convenience.

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Ahumuza Brian aka Abryanz will mentor teens at the inaugural Buzz Dream Fair.

By Our Reporter

Buzz Events, through their brand, Buzz Magazine, will hold the inaugural edition of the Buzz Dream Fair this Saturday at UMA Show Grounds, Lugogo.

The event is aimed at entertaining as well as inspiring teens to chase their dreams. It will also give a platform to teens to express themselves and experience current trends in art, fashion, music and technology.

According to the organisers, the teens will be taken through different mentorship sessions which will be facilitated by distinguished individuals like Celeb stylist Abryanz  and Isaac Nabwana of Wakaliwood among others.

The day will be spiced up with lots of entertainment. There will be performances from Vinka, John Blaq, Nina Roz, and Fresh Kid among others as well as a silent disco experience with deejays Ali breezy, XYZL and Lil on the decks.

The post Wakaliwood’s Isaac Nabwana, Abryanz to mentor teens at the inaugural Buzz Dream Fair appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

Songstress Rema Namakula will be the headlining act at the maiden Nootri Mother’s Day concert slated for Saturday, May 11 at Kati Kati Grounds, Lugogo. She will be performing alongside sensational youngster, Fresh Kid.

According to Hope Segutunga, the Nootri Sales Manager Uganda, the mother’s day event is aimed at celebrating and rewarding mothers and their children who are the pillars of their business.

“We are a nutritional company, and mothers have been the biggest supporters of our brand so we want to reward them by bringing them together in a family day out so that they can have fun with their children,” Segutunga said.

The daytime event will involve several activities such as massages and manicures for the adults while the children will engage in face painting, bouncing castles and other games.

Meanwhile, a nutritionist will also be on hand to engage with moms on matters related to feeding and food safety as a whole.

Segutunga further noted that Nootri Mother’s Day concert is one of the brand’s initiatives to shed more light on nutrition and healthy lifestyles and will be an annual celebration.

The post Rema Namakula set for Mother’s Day concert appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

For Kampala party people, the night life never ends and the celebrations never stop. On Friday evening, fun seekers gathered together at Industrial Area-based VIP nightspot, Club Guvnor, for the maiden Ciroc Pop Night as the premium eau-de-vie vodka also launched new signature cocktails for party lovers to enjoy.

The event saw the high-end celebration vodka announce its new signature cocktails, Ciroc Couture and Miami Vice, that teased guests’ pallets and had them asking for more and more rounds all throughout the night.

Complimenting the night’s occasion were hit DJs; Bryan, Baby Luv and Dash on the turntables, who effortlessly kept the guests entertained and on their feet.

In attendance were various well-known personalities that included media personalities Marcus Kwikiriza, Ruth Kalibaala Bwanika and Kasuku, comedian Hannington Bugingo, among others.

“This Ciroc Pop Night is the first of its kind that we are organizing for our consumers who continue to celebrate life amongst many other achievements with us in style. It was a great night with more to follow soon,” said Annete Nakiyiga, Head of Luxury Portfolio, UBL.

Nakiyaga revealed that the Ciroc Pop Nights will be taking place every second Friday of the month, only at Kampala’s ultimate nightspot, Guvnor.

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By Our Reporter

It was a fun-filled day for holiday makers who turned up for the maiden ‘Buzz Dream Fair’ which was held at UMA Gardens, Lugogo on Saturday.

Touted as an event to inspire and entertain, it indeed did not disappoint. Teens who flocked the venue enjoyed music performances, dj mixes and also got career advice.

The crowd was treated to performances from Fresh Kid, VIP Jemo, John Blaq, Vinka, Nina Roz, and Grenade among others, much to the delight of the crowd who cheered on every act that stepped on stage.

On the other hand, those who opted for the silent disco experience danced away to their favorite songs with DJ Ali Breezy, DJ XYZL and DJ Lil on the decks.

Besides the silent disco and music performances, the teeniez were also taken through mentorship sessions. The teens got to interact with different figures who have excelled in fields of art, fashion, music and technology.

Here are some photos from the event.

The post Photos: What you missed at the maiden ‘Buzz Dream Fair’ appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

Party animals in Fort portal will be happy to know that the recent wave of neon themed parties will be making its way to the beautiful hilly town this weekend.

The fun glow-themed event has been growing a fanbase ever since its first edition held at the New Nile Bridge and continues to traverse through popular regional cities around the country.

The Rave that will be held at the Gardens restaurant on  Saturday, May 18 will feature some of the biggest entertainers including musicians and DJs, neon dancers, 3D Cinema, a tattoo parlor, games and many other cool activities.

“Tusker Lite is all about setting new trends and ‘liting the way’ to new fun experiences hence the neon rave. These parties are all about you our loyal consumers, spending time, giving back and opening the doors of our vibrant lifestyle to new consumers. Come ready to experience the best as We Lite Fort portal green,” said Cathy Twesigye, Brand Manager Premium Beers, UBL.

The Neon Rave party is still on the road and Gulu will be next after Fort Portal.

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