By Josephine Kayaga
Kampala’s popular R&B nightlife experience, Strictly Soul, is set to return on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, with a special Martyrs’ Day Eve edition at the Méstil Hotel & Residences.
Known for its emotional atmosphere and nostalgic music selections, the event has grown into one of the city’s most anticipated nightlife experiences, attracting lovers of classic and modern R&B music.
This year’s edition will feature performances from crowd favourites Eyo Mackus, Deejay Jo, DJ Bamos, and Strictly Soul founder Akio Kawahito, all expected to deliver a night filled with slow jams, early 2000s hits, and soulful anthems.Over the past two years, Strictly Soul, together with its partners Johnnie Walker Blonde, has transformed from an ordinary party into a musical experience centered on emotion, memories, and audience connection.
Unlike many club nights that focus on trending songs, the event relies on timeless music that encourages singalongs and shared experiences among revelers.Music from international stars such as Usher, Alicia Keys, Brandy, Beyoncé, SZA, Summer Walker, and Chris Brown has helped shape the event into what many describe as a giant emotional karaoke session.
This edition will place greater focus on the DJs, particularly Akio Kawahito, whose performances are known for storytelling through music and carefully crafted emotional transitions that keep audiences engaged throughout the night.Speaking ahead of the event, Eyo Mackus noted that R&B remains one of the few music genres that people deeply connect with emotionally.
He explained that many songs continue to resonate with audiences years after their release because listeners associate them with personal memories and experiences.The event will also feature media personality Sheila Salta, whose energetic crowd interaction is expected to add excitement to the night.Organisers say the June edition will continue its partnership with Johnnie Walker Blonde, with curated entertainment experiences planned for attendees throughout the event.